Cleveland State University Admissions

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Cleveland State University is a public metropolitan research university located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. CSU is known for its commitment to student success, innovative academic programs, and strong ties to the city. With a diverse student body and a focus on experiential learning, CSU offers a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Undergraduate Admissions

  • Minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • College-Level Coursework: Completion of 30 semester hours of college-level coursework is preferred.
  • Test scores (SAT/ACT) are optional.
  • Official transcripts from all high schools attended are required.
  • Letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors are recommended.
  • A personal essay is required.

Graduate Admissions

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required.
  • A competitive undergraduate GPA is required.
  • Some programs may require GRE or GMAT scores.
  • You need official transcripts from all schools and universities you’ve been to in the past.
  • Letters of recommendation from faculty or professionals are required.
  • It is important to have a well-written statement of purpose that explains your research interests, academic goals, and professional goals.

Application Fee

40 USD

ELP Tests Accepted

  • TOEFL
  • IELTS
  • PTE

Standardized Test Scores (PG)

GMAT, GRE

International Application Deadlines

UG: August 15

PG: July 12 (Fall)

Cleveland State University Graduate Admissions Requirements

Cleveland State University has over 150 graduate programs. These programs include master’s degrees, certificates, minors, and accelerated programs. International students seeking admission at Cleveland State University will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:

University Eligibility

  • 4-year bachelor’s degree with 2.75 GPA
  • English language proficiency scores:
    • TOEFL IBT – 78
    • IELTS – 6.0
  • Standardized Test Scores:
    • GMAT: 600 
    • GRE: 150-155 (Verbal) and 150-155 (Quant)

Documents Checklist

  • LOR
  • SOP
  • Transcripts 
  • Financial Statement

Cleveland State University Admission Requirements for Top Graduate Programs

Following are the specific admission requirements for the top graduate programs at Cleveland State University:

Programs

GPA required

Test Scores

Documents Checklist

MCS in Computer Science

3.0 on a 4.0 scale (85%)

60 percentile in GRE

2 LORs, Statement of career goals and research interests 

Master of Science Biomedical Engineering

3.25 or above on a 4.0 scale (87%)

Not required

Academic Letters of recommendation

Master of Science Environmental Science

3.0 on a 4.0 scale (85%)

GRE score in 50th percentile

2 LORs, Statement of career goals and research interests 

Master of Arts Psychology-Clinical

3.0 on a 4.0 scale (85%)

GRE test scores

2 LORs, SOP, Resume

Cleveland State University Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Cleveland State University offers more than 175 undergraduate programs. These programs include bachelor’s degrees, minors, certificates, and accelerated programs. International students seeking an undergraduate degree at Cleveland State University will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:

University Eligibility

  • Secondary School Certificate and Higher Secondary Certificate with 2.3 GPA
  • English language proficiency scores:
    • TOEFL IBT – 68
    • IELTS – 5.5
  • Standardized Test scores:
    • SAT: 750 
    • ACT: 16

Documents Checklist

  • Passport Copy
  • High School Transcripts
  • LOR

Cleveland State University Admission Deadlines

International students have to fill out and submit their application before the following Cleveland State University admission deadline:

International Undergraduate Admissions Application Deadline:

Admission Type

Application Deadline

Freshmen application deadline

August 15

Transfer application deadline

August 15

International Graduate Admissions Application Deadline: 

Admission Type

Application Deadline

Spring

December 07

Summer

April 13

Fall

July 12

Cleveland State University Selection Criteria

Cleveland State University has different selection criteria for undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Undergraduate

  • A high school GPA of at least 2.3 
  • Completion of 13 core academic requirements, including English, math, natural sciences, and social sciences 
  • An ACT score of at least 16 or an SAT score of at least 880 
  • English language test scores, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo 

Graduate

  • A bachelor’s degree GPA of at least 2.75, with a higher average in the major field. 
  • Not less than a 50th percentile score on a standard test for entry, like the GRE or MAT. 
  • Completion of 12 or more graduate credit hours at Cleveland State University with a GPA of at least 3.0 
  • A graduate degree from an accredited institution. 
  • A valid BCI/FBI background check. 

Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a higher GPA, a letter of support from a supervisor, and a personal statement.

Frequently Asked Questions Section

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the minimum GPA requirements at CSU?

The minimum cumulative GPA for international undergraduate students at CSU is generally 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. However, this can vary depending on the specific program and academic background.

What are the English language requirements at CSU?

International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. Acceptable proof includes:

  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 71 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53

Can I apply to graduate programs at CSU if I have a degree from a non-US university?

Yes, international students with degrees from accredited universities outside the United States can apply to CSU graduate programs.

How can I obtain an F-1 student visa to study at CSU?

Once you are admitted to CSU, you will receive an I-20 form from the university. You will use this form to apply for an F-1 student visa at your home country’s nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Can I work on-campus while studying at CSU?

Yes, international students on an F-1 visa can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during vacations.

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