City University of Seattle: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

City University of Seattle may not appear in QS or Times Higher Education global rankings, but it has built a strong reputation in the U.S. for its focus on career readiness, flexible learning formats, and industry-aligned programs. 

It is ranked 96th for the best online bachelor’s program for veterans. The university is especially well-known for its graduate business and technology degrees.

Here’s a quick snapshot of its recent rankings and recognitions:

CityU’s strengths lie in preparing professionals for real-world leadership and digital transformation roles, earning it a reputation for practical, outcome-driven education. 

Now, let’s explore admissions at CityU.

Submitting your application on time is essential at City University of Seattle. With four intakes each year, overseas applicants are encouraged to apply at least 60 days before the start date to ensure timely visa processing. U.S. based transfer students typically have a 30-day deadline before classes begin. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of all deadlines for all the available intakes:

Note: Deadlines may vary slightly by program, so always confirm with your admissions advisor.

Now, let’s explore some of the popular programs available at City University of Seattle.

Admissions at City University of Seattle is inclusive with 92.2% acceptance rate. The criteria like IELTS Band Score and specific course requirements are designed to support both traditional and non-traditional learners, especially working professionals and international students. 

While CityU follows a more accessible admissions model, there are still academic, language, and visa requirements you’ll need to meet depending on your program of interest.

Here’s a detailed list of admission requirements and documents you should keep ready while applying to CityU.

Admission Requirements

The university reviews each application holistically, ensuring that academic readiness aligns with your chosen field. Understanding the admission process and requirements in detail will help you prepare well for the application season. 

You can also take the necessary admission tests like the SAT or ACT, as well as meet the required GPA standards, to increase your chances of admission.

Academic Qualification

Indian students typically need a minimum of 55% or above in their undergraduate studies to qualify for graduate-level programs. Undergraduate applicants should meet the equivalent of a U.S. high school diploma. 

Here’s a general overview of what CityU looks for in terms of academic background across program levels:

Other requirements may include relevant work experience, especially for education, counseling, or MBA programs.

Language Proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must prove proficiency through a standardized test. A minimum IELTS score of 6 band and TOEFL score of 76 is required to qualify. It’s extremely important to qualify these minimum score thresholds to secure your admission in your desired program. 

Here are the minimum accepted scores for most programs at City University of Seattle:

Note: Some graduate programs in education or counseling may require higher English proficiency scores or interviews.

Competitive Exams

City University of Seattle does not generally require GRE or GMAT scores, especially for most master's programs. Interviews, previous academic and extra curricular  achievements may contribute towards your acceptance. 

Students in creative programs may also need to submit a portfolio or professional samples of work. However, some optional or program-specific evaluations may apply:

Visa Requirements

To study at CityU as an international student, you’ll need to obtain and meet the F-1 student visa requirements. It is necessary to start the process as early as you can so you can be one step ahead of any delays and processing hurdles. 

The process begins once you are admitted and receive your I-20 form from the university’s International Student Office. Here’s a quick overview:

Now, let’s take a look at application deadlines for City University of Seattle.

City University of Seattle offers over 60 undergraduate, graduate, and associate programs, including flexible online and hybrid options. Whether you're pursuing business, education, or technology, the university’s career-focused curriculum is designed for working professionals and international students alike.

Here’s a quick look at the fields you can explore at CityU:

You can also go through the CityU program finder to find the best fit for your needs. Now, let’s discuss the program fees of different courses at City University of Seattle.

Planning your finances is a major part of preparing to study abroad. At City University of Seattle, your cost of studying in the USA will include both tuition fees and daily living costs such as housing, transportation, meals, and personal spending.

For international students, living expenses typically make up around 35% to 45% of the total yearly budget, depending on lifestyle choices and type of accommodation. 

Here’s a detailed overview table of the costs:

Next, let’s look into the cost of living in Seattle.

Seattle ranks among the pricier cities in the U.S., especially when it comes to housing. That said, it offers an exciting student atmosphere, reliable public transit, and strong employment opportunities. 

On average, students should budget USD 2,350 – USD 4,000 or INR 1.95L – INR 3.32L per month to cover the basic monthly cost of living in the USA.

Here's an estimated breakdown of monthly living costs for international students:

CityU Seattle doesn't offer guaranteed on-campus housing, so most students opt for private rentals or shared apartments in nearby areas.

As per guidelines, international students are generally expected to show a financial buffer of USD 29,000 – USD 36,000 (INR 24L – INR 29.8L) annually to cover living costs, well in line with the estimate above.

Now, let’s explore the available scholarships for students.

Tuition at CityU is competitively priced for both domestic and international students. The tuition fee can range anywhere from $29,000 - $90,000 (INR 28.3L - INR 88L) depending on the program and type of degree. 

Graduate tuition is typically charged per credit, and most international students take 36–54 credits per degree. 

Here’s an estimated range of annual tuition fees for international students:

Note: Fees may vary slightly by credit load and course format

Now, let’s explore how much it can cost you to study at City University of Seattle.

City University of Seattle offers a range of scholarships like Presidential Excellence and Merit scholarships to help international students reduce the cost of tuition and focus on their academic goals. These scholarships reward academic merit, leadership, and community involvement, and they’re available to new and continuing students across various programs.

The awards can range from USD 10,000 - USD 5,000 (INR 9.76L - 4.88L). These can significantly lower tuition fees, making it easier for international students to study in Seattle without a heavy financial burden. 

Now, let’s look at some of the internal scholarships available for students at CityU.

Internal Scholarships

CityU provides several scholarships like Economic Hardship and Academic Achievement that international students are automatically considered for during the admissions process. Some are one-time awards, while others offer ongoing financial support based on academic standing and course load.

Here’s a breakdown of key internal scholarships:

Now, let’s explore some of the external scholarships available for international students at CityU.

External Scholarships

In addition to internal scholarships, international students at City University of Seattle can apply for several external scholarship opportunities like Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships and PEO International Peace scholarship. 

Some external scholarships are also fully funded scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships, like the Fulbright Scholarship, can be offered by government agencies, private organizations, and educational foundations. These awards are independently managed and typically have their own application timelines and eligibility requirements.

Below is a list of select external scholarships that international students may be eligible for:

Now, let’s explore after study student outcomes and placement support for international students.

City University of Seattle may be one of the top universities in the USA known for its career-focused programs and flexible formats, but it also promotes a supportive student life, especially for international and adult learners balancing work and study. 

With over 6000 students from different countries and an average student age of 37, CityU provides a unique, multicultural, and mature learning environment. While it doesn’t follow the traditional campus model of large U.S. universities, CityU emphasizes personal growth, cultural exchange, and networking opportunities.

Clubs & Student Organizations

Unlike larger state schools, CityU doesn’t have Greek life or hundreds of clubs. Instead, it offers:

• International Student Community Programs: Led by the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS), events and discussion groups help international students build community and navigate life in Seattle.
• Academic and Career Interest Groups: Many student-led groups align with degree fields like Business, IT, and Education, ideal for networking and professional development.
• Leadership Opportunities: Students can participate in the International Student Council, or serve as orientation leaders or peer mentors.

Events & Social Activities

CityU hosts a range of events both online and in-person to foster connection:

• Cultural Celebrations: From Lunar New Year to Diwali, the university celebrates global diversity through food festivals, music, and storytelling.
• Quarterly Orientation Week: Each new term kicks off with orientation and networking events, tailored especially for working professionals and international students.
• Career Fairs & Workshops: Organized by CityU Career Services, these sessions link students with local employers and alumni mentors.

Sports & Recreation

CityU does not offer varsity sports, but it promotes wellness and access to recreation:

• Student Discounts: Through partnerships, students receive discounted memberships at local gyms like LA Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness in Seattle.
• Outdoor Activities: Seattle’s location makes it ideal for hiking, kayaking, skiing, and weekend trips to Mount Rainier and the Olympic Peninsula.
• Informal Sports Groups: Some students form intramural teams or join local soccer, badminton, or running clubs in the city.

CityU may not offer a traditional dorm-and-dining-hall college life, but its tight-knit, globally connected community and access to all that Seattle offers make student life engaging, professional, and culturally rich.

Now, let’s discuss some of the notable alumni from City University of Seattle.

City University of Seattle is dedicated to equipping its students with the skills and opportunities necessary for successful careers. Through a combination of practical learning experiences, interview preparation support, career services, and industry partnerships, the university supports students in achieving their professional goals.

Here are some key highlights of CityU's graduate outcomes and how they help prepare their graduates:

• Overall Employment Rate: Approximately 90% of CityU alumni are employed, with 74% working in fields related to their degree.
• Median Earnings: Graduates earn a median salary of $46,500 (INR 45.4L) six years after graduation, surpassing the national average of $33,028 (INR 32.2L).
• Career Coaching: CityU offers personalized career advising to help students align their academic goals with relevant opportunities in the industry.
• Interview Preparation: Services include resume reviews, mock interviews, and employer-led workshops to build job-readiness.
• Professional Networking: Students gain access to virtual career fairs, industry events, and a network of alumni across the U.S.
• Internship Support: Dedicated career staff assist in securing internships and practical training with Seattle-based and national companies.

These statistics reflect CityU's commitment to providing students with the necessary tools and experiences to thrive in their chosen careers.

Top Recruiters at City University of Seattle

CityU's strategic location in Seattle, a hub for technology, healthcare, and education, offers students access to numerous employment opportunities. The university's strong industry connections and alumni network facilitate placements across various sectors.

Some of the prominent employers hiring CityU graduates include:

• Technology: Microsoft, Amazon, and other tech firms in the Seattle area.
• Healthcare: Swedish Medical Center and Providence Health & Services.
• Education: Seattle Public Schools and other educational institutions.
• Finance: JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and other major financial institutions.
• Retail: Starbucks, Nordstrom, and other retail giants in the Pacific Northwest.

All these resources are extremely helpful once you are ready to graduate and enter the workforce. Now, let’s take a look at the student life at City University of Seattle.

City University of Seattle has cultivated a diverse alumni network of 63,053 graduates worldwide, many of whom have made significant contributions across various sectors, including business, government, technology, and the arts. 

Below is a selection of distinguished alumni and their notable achievements:

These alumni exemplify the diverse paths City University of Seattle graduates have taken, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing education that empowers.

Now, let’s explore how CityU compares to other universities like Rockford and Bay Path.

City University of Seattle has 5 campuses and it is structured to support flexible, career-focused learning for working professionals and international students. 

With multiple campuses across the Pacific Northwest and in Canada, the university ensures its programs are accessible, adaptable, and relevant to real-world workforce demands. 

Here’s a detailed overview of each campus:

Seattle Main Campus

• Seattle ranks among the top 10 U.S. cities for tech jobs, with over 195,390 employed in the sector.
• Offers programs in business, computer science, education, and psychology, structured for adult learners.
• Provides hybrid and online learning models to support flexible schedules and full-time work commitments.

Edmonds Campus

• Snohomish County, home to Edmonds, has seen around 80% adults continuing education since. The high number indicates a high number of courses available for flexible learning.
• Serves students in the northern Seattle metro area, especially those pursuing undergraduate business and project management degrees.
• Offers evening and weekend courses in partnership with Edmonds College.
• Supports seamless transfer pathways for community college graduates.

Vancouver Campus (Canada)

• Vancouver has one of the fastest-growing immigrant populations in Canada, with 41.8% of residents born outside the country.
• Offers CityU’s accredited programs to local and international students in British Columbia.
• Focuses on graduate programs in education, counseling, and management.
• Provides flexible learning for working professionals through weekend and hybrid classes.

Renton Campus

• Renton’s public school district serves over 15,000 students, creating consistent demand for trained educators and administrators.
• Specializes in K–12 teacher education, certification, and leadership programs.
• Strong ties with local school districts support job placements and internships.
• Offers evening and weekend formats for educators already working in the field.

Tacoma Campus

• Pierce County’s population has grown by over 10% in the past decade, increasing local demand for higher education options.
• Provides undergraduate and graduate courses in business and counseling.
• Located near Joint Base Lewis–McChord, supporting veterans and active-duty military students.
• Offers personalized support services for adult learners and career changers in the South Puget Sound region.

Each CityU campus reflects the university’s mission to provide accessible, workforce-aligned education across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Now, let’s explore rankings at CityU.

Choosing between these U.S. universities depends on what you’re looking for. Your deciding parameters should be career-driven programs, affordability, flexibility, and strong support for international students. 

When you compare different universities on the basis of your specific needs, you get an idea where you can give your best in terms of commitment and post-study outcomes.  

Here’s a clear comparison to guide your decision:

Each university offers unique advantages. Choose based on your learning style, budget, and long-term career plans.