Chicago State University Chicago State University (CSU), founded in 1867, is a public university on Chicago's South Side serving a predominantly African-American student body. The 161-acre campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs with particular strengths in education, health sciences, and business. CSU maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio while providing the resources of a state university. Campus facilities include the recently renovated Library and Learning Center and the Cordell Reed Student Union. The university is particularly known for its teacher education programs serving Chicago Public Schools.
CSU takes pride in its urban mission and commitment to serving underrepresented students. Campus life includes NCAA Division I athletics and over 60 student organizations. The university's location provides internship opportunities throughout Chicago. Recent initiatives include the new STEM Center and health professions programs. Despite financial challenges, CSU remains dedicated to providing accessible, quality education. The university's combination of academic programs, diverse community, and urban location makes it an important educational resource on Chicago's South Side.
Chicago State University Acceptance Rate
Chicago State University is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of Chicago State University (CSU) is 48.51%. This means that 49 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
How Competitive are Chicago State University Admissions?
- Moderately Competitive: Applicants need good academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.
Since the acceptance rate is low, you need to perform exceptionally well in academics and other activities. However, since it is not below 20%, you still have a chance if your GPA isn\'t excellent. You can compensate for a lower GPA by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can enhance your admission chances.
Chicago State University Admission Requirements
CSU GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at CSU is 3.18. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A’s and B’s is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
If your GPA is between 2.88 and 3.18, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score. A minimum GPA of 2.78 is required.
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Can I Get Into CSU Without SAT Or ACT?: Chicago State University considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below.
Chicago State University (CSU) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
Chicago State University Average SAT Score: 857
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Chicago State University is 857 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Chicago State University SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 857 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (0 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Chicago State University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 0, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to CSU. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
Chicago State University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Reading | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| SAT Composite | 857 | 0 | 0 |
It means that if you have scored less than 0 then you are below most of the admitted students at CSU and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 0 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 850
Can I get into Chicago State University (CSU) with a 0 SAT?
With a 0 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Chicago State University (CSU) are good but the admission staff at CSU tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
CSU Profile
Name: Chicago State University (CSU)
Accredited by: Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
How much does a degree from CSU Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Chicago State University is USD: 21961. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Chicago State University is USD: 6916
How can I get a scholarship?
60.32% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 64.45 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to CSU and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Chicago State University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist CSU as your choice in the form.
How much a CSU Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the CSU graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 42778. An average CSU graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Chicago State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Chicago State University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Chicago State University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Chicago State University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bethel University | Bethel University, IN | 850 | NA |
| Bloomfield College | Bloomfield College, NJ | 862 | 15 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Chicago State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama A & M University | Alabama A & M University, AL | 920 | 17 |
| Gallaudet University | Gallaudet University, DC | 896 | 17 |
| Bethune-Cookman University | Bethune-Cookman University, FL | 903 | 17 |
| St Luke's College | St Luke's College, IA | 910 | 17 |
| Kentucky State University | Kentucky State University, KY | 889 | 17 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- English Language and Literature, General
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Geography and Cartography
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago State University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $42778 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Chicago State University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $21961 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Chicago State University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are excellent, with more than a 80% chance, depending on your academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Chicago State University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Chicago State University is 48.51 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Chicago State University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.18. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Chicago State University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 2.88, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Chicago State University with a 2.88 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 2.88 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Chicago State University if my GPA is below 2.78
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.18, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for Chicago State University?
Answer: Admission to Chicago State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 857 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 0-0
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Chicago State University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Chicago State University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Chicago State University?
Answer: The campus culture at Chicago State University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Chicago State University?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Chicago State University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.