Guides
Erikson Institute: Admissions, Programs & Student Housing Guide 2025
July 28, 2025
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4 min read
Ready to shape your future in a city full of academic opportunities? Chicago State University (CSU) sits on the South Side, just minutes from downtown’s business hubs and cultural landmarks. It offers over 60 Chicago State University programs, from bachelor’s and master’s degrees to flexible online programs designed for working adults.
Whether you’re drawn to business, education, health sciences, or the arts, CSU puts learning into action through real-world projects, collaborative labs, and neighborhood partnerships. With a commitment to affordability and student support, CSU provides quality higher education so you can pursue your goals without compromise.
Ready to discover how CSU’s programs can empower your future? Scroll down to explore academic paths, campus life, and application tips!
About Chicago State University
Chicago State University began in 1867 as the Cook County Normal School, training teachers in a railcar before growing into Chicago’s only public university on the South Side. Today, this Predominantly Black Institution enrolls about 2,915 students in Chicago State University degrees (undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral) across its Colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education, Health Sciences, and more.
With an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, CSU prides itself on personalized instruction and community engagement, living out its mission to transform lives through ethical leadership and social justice. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, CSU delivers hands-on learning in modern labs, performance spaces, and community partnerships.
Its 161-acre campus features modern labs, a convocation center, and student housing, while convenient Chicago State University online programs expand access for learners everywhere. Guided by the motto “To Learn. To Love. To Lead.” CSU ranks among Illinois’s most affordable universities, championing equity and opportunity.
Chicago State University Admission Requirements
If you are planning to apply to CSU, you must understand all its requirements for international students. Knowledge of these requirements helps you understand your eligibility for its various programs. The undergraduate and graduate requirements for Chicago State University admissions are:
Undergraduate Admission 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 sealed academic transcripts or credentials from all secondary schools attended. Transcripts issued outside the U.S. must include the NACES evaluation.
- Additional Materials: You may submit ACT and SAT 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 Admission 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 a letter 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 the complete college application process, here are 6 simple steps that you can follow:
- Choose Your Program: Determine whether you’re applying as an undergraduate or graduate student, and review the specific requirements on the CSU website.
- 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. - 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, and personal statements.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 a F1 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
*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake
Graduate Tuition and Fees
*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake
Chicago State University Scholarship Opportunities
CSU offers different 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 Student Housing Near Chicago State University
Located in the South Side, Chicago State University(CSU) offers you a thriving student life with facilities like a sports center and various clubs and organizations. On campus, you’ll find suite-style residence halls in the William A. Brookins Administrative Center, complete with study lounges, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security.
If you’d rather live off campus, Amber streamlines your search for budget-friendly apartments and shared flats in neighborhoods like Bronzeville, Hyde Park, and the Loop. It provides curated listings offering fast Wi-Fi, flexible leases, and proximity to campus or public transit. Amber helps you settle in quickly so you can focus on classes, labs, and community projects.
Let Amber guide you to your ideal Chicago home today! Here are some of the most affordable apartments near Chicago State University:
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