Chicago State University: 2026 Admissions, Programs & More

Chicago State University (CSU) is located on the South Side, just a few minutes away from the main business districts and cultural landmarks of downtown. Out of the universities in Chicago, it has over 60 Chicago State University programs available, including bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as Chicago State University online programs that are flexible for working adults. On top of that, if business education, health sciences, or arts attract you, CSU allows you to apply your knowledge through hands-on projects, shared labs, and partnerships with communities. A strong focus on affordability and support for students has led CSU to offer quality higher education, in which you can study the subject of your choice without any difficulty. So, are you ready to see how CSU's curriculum can help you? Just scroll down to find out more about academic opportunities, campus life, and how to apply!

About Chicago State University

Chicago State University has its roots in a teacher training school in a railroad car back in 1867. Since then, it has become the only public university located on the South Side of Chicago. Currently, approximately 2,915 students are pursuing Chicago State University degrees (undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral) in various fields at its Colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business Education, Health Sciences, and others. A student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 allows CSU to emphasize the importance of individualized learning and community involvement. It is the exact way the school has been fulfilling its mission to change lives through ethical leadership and social justice. Inspired by the motto To Learn. To Love. To Lead, CSU is one of the most affordable universities in Illinois, actively advocating for equity.

Chicago State University Admissions Requirements

If you are planning to attend Chicago State University degrees, you must understand all its requirements for international students. The undergraduate and graduate requirements for Chicago State University admissions are:

Undergraduate Chicago State University Admissions Requirements

• Online Application and Fee: Complete the CSU application online and submit the $50 application fee.
• Foreign Credential Evaluation: International diplomas require a course-by-course report from a NACES-approved agency confirming U.S. high school equivalency and a cumulative GPA ≥ 2.5.
• Official Transcripts: Submit sealedacademic transcripts or credentials from all secondary schools attended. Transcripts issued outside the U.S. must include the NACES evaluation.
• Additional Materials: You may submitACT andSAT scores (optional) and any other items CSU requests for your specific program.

English Proficiency: If you haven’t studied in an exempt country or earned 24+ U.S. semester credits, provide one valid score (taken within two years):

Graduate Chicago State University Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: You must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution (GPA ≥ 3.0 for full admission; ≥ 2.75 for conditional admission) or its international equivalent.
• Application and Fee: Complete the online Graduate School application and pay the $30 application processing fee.
• Official Transcripts: Request sealed transcripts from every institution you attended.
• Foreign Credentials Report: International applicants must submit Scholar’s GPA and Degree report via CSU’s custom link. 
• Statement of Purpose & Resume: Upload a concise essay outlining your academic and career goals, along with a current resume or CV.
• Letters of Recommendation: Provide aletter of recommendation submitted directly by academic or professional referees who can attest to your qualifications and potential for graduate study.

English Proficiency: Unless exempt, submit one of the following official scores:

Chicago State University Application Deadlines

Many programs at CSU admit students on a rolling basis throughout the year. However, international students must follow these Chicago State University application deadlines to ensure they have ample time for visa processing post-enrollment.

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Graduate Application Deadlines

How To Apply To Chicago State University

To guide you through thecomplete college application process, here are 6 simple steps that you can follow:

1. Choose Your Program: Determine whether you’re applying as an undergraduate or graduate student, and review the specific requirements on the CSU website.
2. Complete the Online Application
   Undergraduates: Fill out the CSU undergraduate application from the official website. Make a new account as a first-time user or simply log in if you are a returning user.
   Graduates: Go to the Graduate School portal and select your desired program to create an account. Complete the Graduate School application and pay the processing fee.‍
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Gather all required documents and upload them to the website or send them to the official address. These include transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, essays, andpersonal statements.‍
4. Financial and Visa Documentation: For F-1 visa processing, submit a passport copy, Affidavit of Financial Support, and a recent bank statement covering one academic year.‍
5. Application Review: Once all materials arrive, CSU will review your file. You’ll be notified by email of the admission decision and next steps for visa processing.‍
6. Monitor Your Status and Next Steps: Check your application portal for missing items and admission decisions. Upon acceptance, work with the Global Engagement Office to finalize Form I-20 and prepare for aF1 student visa application.

Chicago State University Tuition and Fees

Popular as one of the most affordable public universities in Chicago, CSU shows its commitment to making education accessible to all. The tuition fees for the 2025-2026 academic year are:

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Chicago State University Scholarship Opportunities

CSU offers various types of financial aid to support students from diverse backgrounds and financial needs. Some of the Chicago State University scholarships for international students are:

Affordable Chicago State University Housing

On the South Side, Chicago State University(CSU) boasts a lively student life with various amenities, a sports center, and multiple clubs and organizations. The campus features suite-style residence halls in the William A. Brookins Administrative Center that not only offer study lounges and laundry facilities but are also under 24/7 security. However, if you prefer living off campus, Amber makes finding student apartments near Chicago State University, low-cost and shared flats in different areas such as Bronzeville, Hyde Park, and the Loop, a breeze. It includes carefully selected listings that offer high-speed internet, flexible lease terms, and the most suitable locations, either near the university or public transportation. Amber is all about helping you get settled quickly, allowing you to put your main focus on classes, labs, and community service projects.

Here are some of the most affordable apartments near Chicago State University: 

• Lake Meadows Apartments, Chicago
• 6156 S Kenwood Ave, Chicago
• Prairie Shores Bronzeville, Chicago
• 5528 S. Cornell Avenue, Chicago
• 5500 S. Cornell Avenue, Chicago

All in all, Chicago State University is an excellent option if you're looking for reasonably priced higher education combined with a vibrant urban setting. Not only offering a diverse portfolio of academic disciplines and faculty who put their hearts into teaching, but Chicago State University (CSU) is a place where community engagement and practical learning go hand in hand, thus equipping students to compete globally. The university's admission procedure is quite simple, scholarships are available, and self-paced study options allow students to attend classes without being restricted by time or location, thus making education accessible to both local and international students.

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