
2121 Euclid Avenue - AC 220, Cleveland, OH 44115-2214, USA


Cleveland State University holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards for quality in higher education, which is essential for the recognition of degrees and transfer of credits.
Additionally, several professional programs within the university have received specialized accreditation. For example, the College of Education and Human Services is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that its teacher preparation programs meet rigorous national standards.
The College of Engineering is recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which validates the quality and relevance of its engineering curricula. Similarly, the College of Business Administration holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), reflecting its commitment to business education excellence.
These programmatic accreditations indicate that Cleveland State University's individual academic units adhere to professional standards that are important for students aiming for careers requiring licensure or certification.
Cleveland State University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent secondary school diploma. Submission of a secondary school record and a minimum grade point average are mandatory, while ranking in the secondary school class is encouraged but not compulsory. Applicants must have completed a college preparatory program, and while submission of recommendations and demonstration of competencies are suggested, they are not strictly enforced. The university mandates submission of TOEFL scores for non-native English speakers and recommends other standardized tests for a more comprehensive evaluation.
The university does not have an open admission policy, indicating a selective process despite a high acceptance rate of 95%. Credit for prior learning is granted through approved programs, including credit for Advanced Placement (AP) coursework. There is no requirement for applicants to own a computer, but the university does offer computer lease options.
Cleveland State University charges a nonrefundable application fee that prospective undergraduate students must pay when submitting their application. The fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing the application and is required to complete the submission. However, the university offers fee waivers under certain conditions to help reduce financial barriers for applicants. Eligible students may request a waiver through documentation or participation in specific programs designed to assist with application costs. It is advisable for applicants to consult the university's admissions office or official website to determine their eligibility and the process for obtaining a fee waiver.
Cleveland State University offers access to Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs through arrangements with cooperating host institutions. Prospective students interested in pursuing ROTC training typically participate in branch units located either directly on campus or at affiliated off-campus institutions. This structure enables students to engage in military leadership and training programs while completing their academic studies at Cleveland State University. However, the university itself does not host its own ROTC branch unit but provides pathways to nearby participating units, ensuring students can integrate ROTC commitments with their university experience.
Information regarding specific transfer requirements at Cleveland State University is currently unavailable. Details on credit acceptance, including CLEP subject and general exams or DANTES exams, have not been disclosed. Prospective transfer students will need to consult the university directly for guidance, as data on entrance difficulty, age restrictions, and recommendation acceptance are also not provided.
Cleveland State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives while earning academic credit. Programs include faculty-led short-term trips, semester exchanges, and internship placements in international settings. These options enable students to engage directly with different cultures and academic environments, often aligning with their specific fields of study.
The faculty-led programs typically last from one to three weeks, allowing participants to explore international topics under the guidance of Cleveland State University professors. This format is ideal for students seeking a structured, immersive experience without a full semester commitment.
Semester exchange programs provide an opportunity for students to spend an entire term at a partner institution abroad, facilitating deeper cultural immersion and academic exploration. These arrangements often involve reciprocal agreements with universities in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, broadening academic choices and networking possibilities.
Additionally, the university supports international internships that combine work experience with global exposure. These internships are tailored to various disciplines, providing practical skills and insights into international business practices, research, or community development projects.
Students intending to participate in any study abroad program are advised to consult with the university's study abroad office to understand eligibility, course transferability, and scholarship opportunities. The office also assists with pre-departure orientations and logistical planning to ensure a successful overseas experience.
Median composite SAT score
1035Median composite ACT score
23High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
Data not availablePossible transfer
Data not available