Get Started at Columbus State
A clear path from considering Columbus State to starting your first semester.
Phase 1: Deciding on Columbus State
Explore your options and decide if Columbus State is the right fit for your goals.
Tasks
Phase 2: Application & Onboarding
Apply to Columbus State
Applying to Columbus State is free and completely online. Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive information about your next steps by email. Apply Online
Set Up Your Student Your Email
After you’re admitted, you’ll receive an email with your Cougar ID and instructions to activate your student accounts. All future emails will come to your CState email. So, set up your student email ASAP! Student Email
Log in to Workday.
You’ll complete most admissions and enrollment tasks in Workday, Columbus State’s student portal. Log in with the same username and password you use to access your student email.
When you first log into Workday, you’ll be prompted to complete a series of new student onboarding tasks. Some will take only a few seconds. Other tasks can take days to complete because they require specific documents.
Be sure to regularly check your notifications and tasks so you can stay on track for registration. You must complete your new student onboarding tasks prior to registration.
Log in to Workday | Workday Info
Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships
Complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, work-study, and other financial aid opportunities. Columbus State’s school code is 006867.
You should also explore scholarship opportunities, which do not need to be repaid.
Submit Transcripts and Test Scores
High school transcripts, college transcripts, and test scores help Columbus State place you into the right classes and evaluate transfer credit. If you do not have test scores available, you may be asked to complete a placement assessment. These tests are ungraded and available to you at no cost – so don’t worry! Placement simply allows us to make sure you’re in the right spot. Transcripts & Test Scores
Attend Orientation and a Course Scheduling Workshop
Students who participate in these programs are more likely to succeed and stay on track.
Complete your online orientation and attend a Course Scheduling Workshop before registering for classes. These sessions help you understand college expectations, explore support resources, and build your first-semester schedule with guidance from college staff.
Pay Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees must be paid before the semester begins. In Workday, you can make payments, enroll in a payment plan, set up direct deposit, and review your account balance.
Phase 3: Starting Your Semester
Recommended Timeline
Complete these tasks during the weeks leading up to the start of classes and throughout your first semester.
- Explore campus.
- Get your essentials.
- Attend class and access Blackboard.
- Find help.
- Make connections.
Need Help Figuring it Out?
Your Admissions Representative will help you determine if Columbus State is the smart choice for you (spoiler, we think it is!). They are experts in all things CState, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions. Find your rep at Contact Admissions.