Freshmen Scholarships

Scholarships for new freshmen and transfer students are one more way Cleveland State University makes college more affordable. In 2024–2025, 80% of CSU undergraduates received financial aid, totaling approximately $167 million.

All incoming first-year students are automatically reviewed for merit scholarships, ranging from $1,000-$6,000, based on cumulative high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores. These scholarships are awarded for the first two semesters and are renewable annually for up to 4 years (8 semesters), provided students successfully complete at least 12 credit hours per semester (fall and spring) and maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

Students applying for Fall 2026 who submit all required application materials by March 1, 2026 will receive priority consideration for scholarships.

Awarding Eligibility 

• Full-time, first-time freshmen beginning Summer or Fall 2026
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Must meet all other admission criteria for their selected program

FAFSA Completion Grant

Students admitted to Cleveland State University who submit their 2026-2027 FAFSA by February 15, 2026 will receive the $1,000 FAFSA Completion Grant. This award is renewable for up to 4 years (8 semesters), as long as students remain eligible. Submit your FAFSA early to lock in this annual boost toward your degree.

Awarding Eligibility 

• Full-time, first-time freshmen beginning Summer or Fall 2026
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Must meet all other admission criteria for their selected program

CLE Gateway Grant

Cleveland State University welcomes students from beyond Ohio with the CLE Gateway Grant, a $2,850 renewable award to make your education more affordable. This grant is renewable for up to 4 years (8 semesters) for eligible out-of-state students and is automatically awarded upon admission—no separate application required.

Awarding Eligibility 

• Full-time, first-time freshmen beginning Summer or Fall 2026
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Must meet all other admission criteria for their selected program