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Cleveland State University

Cleveland, Ohio · Public

96%acceptance rate
930–1210SAT middle 50% (from ACT)
17–25ACT middle 50%
$16,307average net price, in-state

Cleveland State University admitted 96% of 10,274 applicants (IPEDS, fall 2023). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 930–1210 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 49% of students graduate within six years.

Your chances at Cleveland State University

Enter a score to see whether Cleveland State University is a reach, target or likely school for you.

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Likely

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A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.

Application deadlines

Cleveland State University’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:

Regular decision
Rolling admission

The application is free.

Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check Cleveland State University’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.

What it costs

Full price with housing is $32,043 in-state and $37,403 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $16,307 on average (in-state).

Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:

  • $0–30k$13,058
  • $30–48k$14,122
  • $48–75k$16,697
  • $75–110k$19,512
  • $110k+$22,320

Quick answers

What is Cleveland State University’s acceptance rate?

Cleveland State University admitted 96% of applicants: 9,810 of 10,274 (IPEDS, fall 2023).

When is Cleveland State University’s application deadline?

Cleveland State University uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.

What SAT score do you need for Cleveland State University?

The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 930 to 1210 (converted from ACT scores), with a median around 970. A score at or above 970 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.

How much is Cleveland State University’s application fee?

The application is free for 2026–27.

Does Cleveland State University have supplemental essays?

No. Cleveland State University doesn’t ask for a supplemental essay or the Common App personal essay for 2026–27.

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