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We’re glad you’re here and want to make the application process as clear and straightforward as possible.
This page explains how to apply for admission and why some students may be asked to submit documents later as part of the tuition residency review process.
Note: We will begin processing applications for Autumn 2026 starting in early April 2026. You will receive a confirmation email once you complete your application. Please check your email regularly for important announcements and next steps.
Start by completing the online Standard Application (SP26 & SU26). Eligible high school students wanting to take College Credit Plus (CCP) courses should complete the CCP application.
After submitting your application, you will receive an email within 1-3 business days with your CougarID number. This ID is used to move forward with next steps, including tuition review.
Admission and tuition residency are two separate processes.
Some students may qualify for in-state tuition based on Ohio residency rules. To determine this, the College may need to review additional information after you apply.
If residency review is needed, you’ll receive an email with a link to the Global Student Immigration Form. This form helps the Residency team determine whether you qualify for in-state or out-of-state tuition.
Examples of documents that may be requested include:
Documents are used for tuition purposes only and are not used for any other reason. You can be admitted without residency review. Residency affects tuition rates, not your ability to attend CSCC.
Once your documents are submitted:
1) Check Your Email: You'll receive an email letting you know your tuition residency classification, or if additional information is needed.
2) Take a Placement Test, or Submit Test Scores and/or Transcripts: Once you have received your admission email, course placement is your next step. Placement tests determine the appropriate course level for students in their first semester. Tests in reading, writing, and math are required for students who do not have qualifying ACT/SAT, AP, or CLEP scores or transfer credit for college level English and Math.
If you attended college outside of the US, you must submit a professional evaluation of your transcripts to be potentially awarded credit and skip placement testing. Please note Columbus State does not award transfer credit for English courses taken at a college or university outside of the US. Click here for more details about who must take the CSCC Placement Tests.
3) Complete an Orientation or New Student Workshop: After you have been accepted and completed placement testing, your next step is to attend either an Orientation or New Student Workshop. There, you'll register for your first classes, discuss financial aid options, learn about campus resources, and get ready to succeed in college. For more information, email orientation@cscc.edu.
If you applied for Financial Aid and are selected to verify that you completed high school, or if your program of study (such as Nursing) requires proof of high school graduation, you will need to submit a professional credential evaluation of your high school transcripts. Columbus State accepts credential evaluations from NACES approved companies only. Please click here for a list of approved companies and scroll to the bottom of the page.
If you wish to pursue the possibility of receiving transfer credit from any college or university outside the United States, please click here for more information.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation. Applications must be completed online each academic year to be eligible for federal, state, or institutional student aid. Student Central offers student financial counseling, workshops, and assistance to help you pursue your educational goals. Please see the Financial Aid webpage for more details.
Fees cannot be paid until after you register for classes. For more information on tuition payment options or how to pay fees, click here.