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 $2,000-$7,000, 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.

Combined with our merit scholarships, applying and submitting the FAFSA by February 15th each year allows in-state students to qualify for up to $32,000 ($8,000 annually) and out-of-state students up to $43,400 ($10,850 annually). These renewable scholarships and grants make Cleveland State University an affordable and valuable choice for your college education.

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