About

About Chicago State University

small class sizeshealth sciences focuspublic masters universityselective admissions

Chicago State University is a public university in Chicago, IL, known for its small class sizes, health sciences focus, and public masters university. With an acceptance rate of 49%, CSU is moderately selective, typically enrolling around 173 students each year. CSU is test optional; submitting a strong score can strengthen an application, though it is not required for consideration. CSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $15,045 per year; the sticker price of $26,179 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Chicago State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

moderately selective

49%
Overall Accept Rate

Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Chicago State University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Chicago State has deep roots in the South Side Chicago community and places real value on students who are committed to serving urban communities, so if your background or goals connect to that mission, make that connection explicit in your personal statement or any additional writing.
Test Score Strategy
Since Chicago State does not require test scores, consider leaving your score off your application if it falls below their typical range, as the rest of your application can speak more strongly without a lower score pulling focus.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Chicago State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$26k/yr$9.1k
30k-48k~$26k/yr$9.6k
48k-75k~$26k/yr$11.3k
75k-110k~$26k/yr$13.9k
110k+~$26k/yr$28.4k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

17%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$34k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
9:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
1,376
Undergrad Enrollment
Chicago State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch