Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University maintains a strong presence in national rankings while holding steady in global evaluations, reflecting its emphasis on accessibility and urban-focused education. It ranks #342 nationally in U.S. News and #1201-1400 globally (QS), though it remains unranked by THE (Times Higher Education). 

Here's how the Cleveland State University rankings have changed over the years:

Ranking Agency	2023	2024	2025	2026
QS World University Rankings	#1201-1400	#1201-1400	#1201-1400	#1401
U.S. News & World Report	#1542	NA	#342	#342

After exploring Cleveland State University's rankings over the years, let's take a look at its top-performing courses and their rankings. 

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

Cleveland State University excels in specialized fields, with its Biomedical Engineering program ranking #121 nationally, while Chemical Engineering at #125, and Law at #111 for graduate programs. The university also exhibits strength in Urban Affairs, Computer Science, and Engineering Management

Here are the top-ranked courses of Cleveland State University:

Program	Ranking Body	Rank 2025
Biomedical Engineering	U.S. News World Ranking	#121
Chemical Engineering	U.S. News World Ranking	#125
Law	U.S. News World Ranking	#111
Medicine	QS World University Rankings	#701
Mechanical Engineering	U.S. News World Ranking	#151

Discover what makes Cleveland State University (CSU) stand out in global rankings and explore the factors that set us apart. Visit the Cleveland State University Rankings page.

After examining the academic performance across various programs, let's take a closer look at the campuses and facilities available to students at CSU.

Cleveland State University is a single-campus institution on 85 acres in downtown Cleveland, bounded by Interstate 90 and East 17th Street. 

The main campus hosts over 14,000 students across 40+ buildings, including a 36,000 sq. ft. film school and a 110,000 sq. ft. Recreation Center. It has 250+ partnerships, including collaborations with NASA and the Cleveland Clinic. 

Here are the unique features of Cleveland State University's 8 colleges that are located on the main campus: 

1. College of Arts and Sciences: Largest college with 50+ majors, including broadcast journalism. The college offers interdisciplinary programs in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. 

2. Monte Ahuja College of Business: AACSB-accredited and centrally located in downtown Cleveland, this college serves nearly 3,000 students. It provides flexible learning options, face-to-face, online, and hybrid, and is closely connected to the Northeast Ohio business community.

3. Washkewicz College of Engineering: Renowned for its partnership with NASA Glenn Research Center, the college offers top-ranked programs such as Biomedical Engineering (#121 nationally, U.S. News).

4. Cleveland-Marshall College of Law: Recognized as one of the best law schools in the country (#111 by U.S. News), this college is known for its pioneering evening legal education and robust clinical programs.

5. Levin College of Public Affairs and Education: A leader in urban policy and public administration, Levin College partners with over 100 civic agencies. It prepares students for impactful roles in government, nonprofit, and education sectors through applied learning and community engagement.

6. College of Health: Home to advanced simulation labs and accelerated nursing tracks, this college supports high-quality training in health professions. Its programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of healthcare in the region.

7. Mandel Honors College: This college offers full-tuition scholarships and a rigorous honors curriculum for high-achieving students. It provides research mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities for civic engagement.

8. College of Graduate Studies: As an R2 research hub, this college oversees more than 200 graduate programs, supporting over 4,600 postgraduate students. It drives CSU's research mission and fosters innovation across disciplines. 

Let's now understand the latest admission process and deadlines for different courses at these colleges. 

Cleveland State University (CSU) offers affordable and accessible education to students worldwide, with three major intake periods: Fall, Spring, and Summer. 

The university maintains a high acceptance rate of approximately 91%, making it a welcoming option for both undergraduate and graduate applicants. With over 10,000 applications received annually, CSU enrolls more than 14,000 students across 110+ programs in a multicultural urban setting. 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the key qualifications and academic criteria required to be successful in your application to Cleveland State University.

Admission Requirements

Cleveland State University requires undergraduate applicants to have completed at least 12 years of education (higher secondary) with a minimum GPA of 2.3 on a 4.0 scale, and recommended SAT/ACT scores of 880/16 or higher. 

Graduate applicants generally need a recognized bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75–3.0, official transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 78, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent). Most graduate programs may also require GRE or GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. 

Here are the detailed admission requirements to study at Cleveland State University:

Academic Qualification

Academic qualifications are pivotal in assessing an applicant's preparedness for university-level education. Cleveland State University emphasizes completing core coursework, such as 4 years of English and 3 years of math or science, for first-year students. 

Here are the detailed requirements:

Criteria	Details
GPA	UG: 2.3+  PG: 2.75–3.0+ (depending on program)
Degree	UG: 12-year education equivalent. PG: Recognized bachelor's degree
Transcripts	Official high school (UG) or bachelor's (PG) transcripts; certified English translations if applicable
Miscellaneous	Core coursework (4 English, 3 math/science units for UG); program-specific prerequisites (e.g., math proficiency for engineering)

Language Proficiency

International students at Cleveland State University must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests. 

The minimum accepted scores are as follows: TOEFL iBT 78 (with no part scoring below 17), IELTS 6.0 (with no section scoring below 5.0), Duolingo 105, and PTE 50. Higher scores may strengthen your application for competitive programs. 

Here are the English language requirements:

Test	Minimum Score	Competitive Score
TOEFL iBT	78	85+
IELTS Academic	6.0	6.5–7.0
PTE Academic	50	55+
iTEP Academic	3.8	4.0+
Duolingo English Test	105	110+

Competitive Exams 

Cleveland State University requires program-specific standardized tests for graduate admissions, such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, or MAT.  International students follow the same criteria but also need to meet English proficiency requirements, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.

Here are the test requirements for taking admission to Cleveland State University:

Criteria	Details
Graduate	GRE, GMAT, or MAT is required for most programs (GRE is waived for select 2025 intakes).
Undergraduate	ACT/SAT optional  SAT: 970–1210 ACT: 18–24.  Recommended for scholarships.
International	Follows the same exam criteria as domestic students, plus TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo.
Program-Specific	LSAT for Law, GRE for Engineering, GMAT for Business.

Note: GRE waivers may apply for specific programs or terms. Always verify with the department.

Visa Requirements 

International students at Cleveland State University must obtain an F-1 visa (or a J-1 visa for exchange programs) to study in the United States. 

In addition, you must have a valid Form I-20, proof of financial support for one academic year, and a visa interview. Over 1,400 international students enroll annually, with visa processing typically taking 2-4 weeks after the interview.

Here are the Visa requirements for admission to Cleveland State University:

Visa Requirement	Description
Form I-20/DS-2019	Issued by CSU after admission, confirms enrollment and financial eligibility.
SEVIS I-901 Fee	F-1: $350 (INR 28K) or J-1; $220 (INR 17K); paid before the visa interview.
Visa Interview	Requires a passport, an I-20, financial documents, and proof of intent to return home.
Financial Proof	Bank statements (dated within 6 months) showing $35,000–$45,000/year (INR 28.7L–36.5L) to cover tuition and living expenses.
Post-Arrival Steps	Attend the mandatory orientation, upload your visa and I-94 copies, and update your local address.

However, before applying for a visa, it's essential to check the application deadlines and intake periods. Let's explore these crucial details to help you plan your next steps.

Cleveland State University (CSU) offers 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, including STEM, business, liberal arts, and emerging disciplines. 

With 175+ undergraduate majors and 40+ graduate degrees, CSU combines academic rigor with hands-on learning through partnerships with NASA, the Cleveland Clinic, and Fortune 500 companies.

Here are some popular programs offered at Cleveland State University:

• STEM Fields: Programs in Biomedical Engineering (#121 U.S. News), Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Data Science emphasize hands-on research and industry partnerships.
• Business and Management: AACSB-accredited MBA, Supply Chain Management, and Marketing programs integrate experiential learning with Cleveland's corporate network.
• Health Sciences: Accelerated Nursing, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Public Health prepare students for high-demand healthcare careers.
• Liberal Arts and Media: Film & Media Arts, International Relations, and Psychology foster creativity and critical thinking through urban-focused curricula.
• Emerging Disciplines: Bootcamps in Cybersecurity and Coding, alongside Environmental Science and Urban Studies, address evolving global challenges.

After exploring some popular courses at Cleveland State University, let's look at the tuition fees for these programs.

Students also need to cover the costs of housing, food, books, and tuition. Here's a breakdown of the overall expenses at Cleveland State University.

Understanding the cost of studying is crucial for financial planning, especially for international students managing tuition, living expenses, and unexpected costs. 

At CSU, living expenses (housing, food, transport, etc.) account for 45-50% of a student's total budget, with tuition fees constituting the remaining majority. 

Below is a breakdown of average costs across key programs:

Courses	Average Cost Annually	Average Cost Annually
MBA	$19,800–$29,700	INR 16.89L–INR 25.35L
Engineering	UG: $17,600–$22,300	UG: INR 15.03L–INR 19.0L
	PG: $21,660–$30,314	PG: INR 18.5L–INR 25.8L
Business	$17,600–$25,800	INR 15.03L–INR 22.0L
Nursing (BSN)	$22,000–$26,826	INR 18.8L–INR 22.9L
Law (JD)	$30,314	INR 25.8L

Want to explore more about Cleveland State University courses and fees? Check out the available courses and fees at Cleveland State University and find the perfect course for you. 

In addition to tuition fees, there are also other costs, such as housing and food. Let's explore them.

Cleveland State University offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships. Approximately 80% of undergraduates receive financial aid, totaling $167 million annually. 

Below are key internal and external opportunities for 2025:

Internal Scholarships

CSU offers automatic merit scholarships for freshmen based on GPA and test scores, as well as departmental awards. 

Most are renewable for 4 years with a 2.0 GPA minimum. CSU's Freshman Merit Scholarships offer up to $34,000 (INR 29.2L)for non-residents and $12,000 (INR 10.3L) for Ohio residents over four years. 

Here are some internal scholarships:

Scholarship Name	Type	Benefits
Freshmen Merit Scholarships	Merit-based	Up to $34,000/INR 29.2L (non-resident) or $12,000/INR 10.3L (Ohio residents) over 4 years
Monte & Usha Ahuja Scholarship	Merit-based	Varies; supports high-achieving business/engineering students
Bruce Altman Scholarship	Merit-based	$3,300 (INR 2.8 L) for students in arts/sciences
Ellis and Ann Yan Scholarship	Merit-based	$3,300 (INR 2.8L) for STEM/health sciences

Note: For Scholarship renewal, maintain a 2.0+ GPA and complete 24+ credits annually (12+/semester). With internal scholarships covered, let's now take a look at the external scholarship opportunities available to students.

External Scholarships

External scholarships complement Cleveland State University's funding, offering targeted support for international and Indian students. Programs like the CSU's Global Excellence Scholarship ($3k–$12k/year for international undergraduates) address specific academic or financial needs. 

Additional opportunities include STEM Bridge Awards ($2,500/INR 2.13 lakh) and graduate assistantships, which offer tuition waivers and stipends to eligible students.

Here are some more external scholarship options:

Scholarship Name	Provided By	Benefits & Eligibility
CSU International Student Scholarship	CSU	Benefits: Varies; includes assistantships. Eligibility: International students, 3.0+ GPA, full-time enrollment
Lena M. Green Scholarship	Private Donor	Benefits: $20k (INR 17.1L) for undergraduates. Eligibility: Full-time enrollment, U.S. citizenship
Adult Learner Program Scholarship	College Now	Benefits: $1k–$2k (INR 85k–INR 1.7L) for adult learners. Eligibility: Age 19+, interrupted education

With funding options in place, the next key focus becomes how well CSU prepares you for your future career.

Placement outcomes are a strong indicator of both academic quality and employer trust. Let's look at the placement rates at Cleveland State University.

Cleveland State University's Career Development and Exploration office offers students personalized services, including resume reviews, mock interviews, and access to over 12,000 job postings each year. 

The university reports a placement rate of 88.2% for law graduates with a mean salary of $105,990 (INR 92.5L). 

This focus on employability is reflected in the variety of placement opportunities offered, which include:

• Credit-Bearing Co-ops: Structured programs (e.g., Fenn Co-op) integrate classroom learning with paid work experience. Students alternate between semesters of study and employment, earning $12–$21 (INR 1K–1.79K) per hour with companies like NASA, Parker Hannifin, and Rockwell Automation. 
• Paid Internships: Mandatory for-credit options (e.g., College of Business internships) require employer partnerships and academic oversight. STEM students access roles at Fortune 500 firms, including GE and Sherwin-Williams.
• Property Management Program: Unique 2–3 job offers per student at graduation due to industry-aligned coursework and employer networking.
• STEM Partnerships: Collaborations with NASA Glenn Research Center and local firms provide hands-on projects in aerospace, manufacturing, and biomedical fields.
• CO-OP Employment: Rotational full-time roles blending academic and professional training, often leading to post-graduation hires.

Now, let's explore the top recruiters hiring graduates from Cleveland State University: 

Top Recruiters

Cleveland State University's strong industry partnerships and 80% placement rate attract leading employers across healthcare, finance, tech, and engineering sectors. The university serves as a talent pipeline for Fortune 500 firms and regional giants, with graduates securing roles in high-growth industries. 

Over 90% of students secure employment within two years of graduation, thanks to partnerships with top employers such as the Cleveland Clinic, Amazon, and PNC.

Below are key recruiters and their focus areas:

• Cleveland Clinic: Roles in healthcare administration, nursing, and biomedical research, with partnerships in clinical training and research.
• Amazon: Opportunities in logistics, IT, and cloud computing, particularly at its Cleveland fulfillment centers and AWS divisions.
• KeyBank: Positions in retail banking, corporate finance, and fintech, emphasizing diversity hiring and leadership programs.
• Parker Hannifin: Engineering co-ops and R&D roles in aerospace, automation, and supply chain management.
• Progressive Insurance: Careers in actuarial science, data analytics, and underwriting, with a focus on innovation-driven projects.
• STERIS: Roles in medical equipment manufacturing, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

Now, let's take a closer look at how Cleveland State University stands against other universities.

Cleveland State University (CSU), the University of Dayton (UD), and Kent State University (KSU) offer distinct advantages depending on academic focus and budget. 

This comparison examines how these universities differ in rankings, popular courses, tuition fees, placement rates, and connections with employers.

Let's have a look:

Parameter	Cleveland State University	University of Dayton	Kent State University
QS World University Ranking	#1401+	Not Ranked (QS)	#1001-1200
Tuition Fees (PG)	PG: $10,155–$30,314(INR 8.7 L – INR26 L)	PG: $17,400–$32,910 ( INR 14.9L- INR 28.2L)	PG: $17,300–$20,000 (  INR 14.8-INR 17.1L)
	UG: $12,144–$17,359 (INR 10.4L- INR 14.9L)	UG: $46,170 (INR 39.5L)	UG: $10,012–$19,200 (INR 8.6L- INR 16.4L)
No. of Courses	PG: 64+	PG: 27+	PG: 45+
	UG: 58+	UG: 66+	UG: 100+
Popular Courses	PG: Engineering, MBA, Computer Science	PG: Engineering, MBA, Law	PG: Business, Public Health, Education
	UG: Engineering, Business, Nursing	UG: Engineering, Business, Law	UG: Business, Nursing, Fashion Design
Scholarships	CSU International Student Scholarships	UD International Merit Scholarships	KSU International Student Scholarships

Now that you better understand how Cleveland State University compares to similar universities, let's look at its student life. 

Cleveland State University offers an engaging urban campus experience with over 200 student organizations, NCAA Division I sports, and Cleveland's cultural attractions nearby. Whether you want to build leadership skills, join a team, or take part in cultural activities, CSU provides a welcoming and supportive environment.

Here are the key highlights of student life at Cleveland State University:

Clubs & Organizations:

• Indian Student Organization promotes cultural exchange through festivals, social events, and collaborations with local nonprofits.
• Engineers Without Borders enables students to work on real-world engineering projects that address global needs.
• Model UN organizes debates, simulations, and conferences at the Wolstein Center, encouraging global awareness and communication skills.
• Student Government Association offers leadership roles and represents student voices in university decisions.
• Campus Activities Board (CAB) plans movie nights, entertainment shows, and campus-wide events throughout the year.

Sports & Recreation:

• 18 NCAA Division I Teams compete in basketball, swimming, wrestling, and more, representing CSU in the Horizon League.
• 110,000 sq. ft. Recreation Center includes an Olympic-sized pool, indoor track, climbing wall, and fitness classes.
• Intramural Leagues in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and esports are open to all students.
• Adventure Recreation Program offers outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and skiing trips.

Campus Events:

• Weeks of Welcome (WOW) starts the semester with concerts, student fairs, and meet-and-greet sessions.
• Viking Fest is an annual spring event featuring live music, food trucks, and campus activities.
• The International Student Festival celebrates global cultures through performances, food, and exhibitions.
• Career Fairs and Networking Events help students connect with employers and explore job and internship opportunities.

Cleveland State University has established a strong tradition of producing graduates who go on to make significant impacts in a variety of fields. Here's a look at some of its notable alumni who have left their mark.

Cleveland State University (CSU) boasts over 120,000 alumni globally, with graduates excelling in politics, sports, business, and the media. The university's 500 list featured 45 alumni as top leaders in Northeast Ohio. Others, such as Stipe Miocic (UFC champion) and Tim Russert (a journalist at NBC), have achieved international acclaim. 

Below are standout alumni who shaped industries and communities:

Name	Field of Work	Contribution
Monte Ahuja	Business	Founder of Transtar Industries and donor to CSU's business school
Radhika Reddy	Entrepreneurship	Co-founder of Ariel Ventures and CSU Board of Trustees member
Drew Anderson	Business	Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and CEO of Cleveland Kraut
James Kandrac	Finance	Rotary Leadership Award winner and financial strategist
Stipe Miocic	Sports	Two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion, firefighter
Tim Russert	Journalism	Emmy-winning NBC journalist, longtime Meet the Press moderator

Meeting application deadlines is critical for securing admission and financial aid. Early submission can improve scholarship eligibility and shorten visa processing timelines. Cleveland State University offers intakes in the fall, Spring, and summer, with deadlines varying by program.

Cleveland State University's current active intake for 2025 admissions includes Summer 2025and Fall 2025

The Spring 2026 intake opens later in 2025; undergraduate applications are due by December 2, 2025. Admission openings for Fall 2025 are now active, with priority deadlines for scholarships and competitive programs.

Here are the intakes and deadlines at Cleveland State University:

Course Type	Intake	Application Deadline
	Fall 2025	Varies (e.g., MBA: May 15, MPH: June 30, 2025)
	Spring 2026	December 7, 2025
Undergraduate	Summer 2025	April 13, 2025 (Closed)
	Fall 2025	July 1, 2025
	Spring 2026	December 2, 2025

With the requirements and deadlines covered, let's check out the programs you can study at CSU.

Studying at Cleveland State University involves several additional costs beyond tuition. On-campus accommodation ranges from $9,700–$18,304 (INR 8.27 L—INR 15.6 L) per academic year, depending on the room type and facilities. 

Understanding these additional costs is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical expenses for the 2025–2026 academic year.​

Expense	Avg Annual Cost (USD)	Avg Annual Cost (INR)
Housing (On-Campus)	$9,700–$18,304	INR 8.27L–INR 15.6L
Meal Plans	$2,418–$5,002	INR 2.06L–INR 4.27L
Health Insurance	$2,400–$3,523	INR 2.05L–INR 3.0L
Books/Supplies	$800–$1,200	INR 68,200–INR 1.02 L
Transportation	$1,500–$2,200	INR 1.28L–INR 1.88L
Personal Expenses	$1,800–$3,470	INR 1.53L–INR 2.96L

Note: Conversions may vary due to current currency rates.

Learn about the admission process at Cleveland State University and discover how to start your journey towards academic success. Visit the Cleveland State University Admission page to get all the details. 

With a clear understanding of living costs, it's equally important to explore financial support options that can ease the financial burden. Let's now take a look at the scholarships offered by the University to help reduce your overall expenses.