Admission — CSTU

By Student Type

Who Can Apply

International Students

F-1 visa holders and international applicants benefit from Day-1 CPT, STEM OPT, and dedicated ISO support throughout their studies.

✓ F-1 Student Visa support

✓ Day-1 CPT from Semester 1

✓ STEM OPT for MS/MBA programs

✓ On-campus immigration advising

Domestic Students

US citizens and permanent residents enjoy flexible scheduling, financial aid eligibility, and access to all CSTU programs at the same quality standard.

✓ Federal financial aid eligible

✓ Flexible full & part-time options

✓ All degree programs available

✓ Career Navigation Program

Military & Veterans

CSTU is a proud Military Friendly school. Veterans and active-duty service members receive tailored support and benefits for their educational journey.

✓ GI Bill® benefit accepted

✓ Yellow Ribbon Program

✓ Dedicated Veterans advisor

✓ Military transfer credits

Admission Pathways

Specialized Entry Programs

AA Graduate Pathway

Accelerated Admission for AA Holders

Students with an Associate's degree from an accredited institution may qualify for the AA Graduate Pathway, allowing direct entry into CSTU's graduate programs with bridge coursework.

Requirements:
• Associate's degree from accredited institution
• Minimum 2.8 GPA
• English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international applicants)
• Statement of purpose

ETTP Graduate Pathway

Certificate-to-Degree Bridge

Completing the Emerging Technology Training Program (ETTP) provides a direct pathway to CSTU's graduate programs. ETTP credits may be applied toward your master's degree.

Requirements:
• Completed ETTP with minimum B average
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
• Two professional recommendations
• Personal interview with program director

Admission Information

Requirements & Policies

General Requirements

Requirement	Graduate	Undergraduate
Prior Degree	Bachelor's degree	High school diploma / GED
Minimum GPA	2.8 cumulative	2.5 cumulative
TOEFL (iBT)	79 minimum	79 minimum
IELTS	6.5 minimum	6.5 minimum
Transcripts	Official, all institutions	Official, all institutions
References	2 letters	1 letter
Statement of Purpose	Required	Required
Résumé	Required	Optional

Note on CPT: Day-1 CPT is available to eligible F-1 students enrolled in a degree program where CPT is an integral part of the established curriculum.

Application Process

Step 1

Submit Online Application

Complete the online application form at admission@cstu.edu or via the MyCSTU portal.

Step 2

Upload Documents

Transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and English proficiency scores.

Step 3

Admissions Review

Our team reviews your application within 2–3 business days and may schedule an interview.

Step 4

Receive Decision & I-20

Accepted students receive an offer letter and, for international students, the I-20 form for F-1 visa application.

Step 5

Enroll & Attend Orientation

Pay enrollment deposit, register for courses, and attend New Student Orientation.

Financials

Tuition & Fees

Program	Tuition per Unit	Total Units	Est. Total
MSCSE (MS)	$750	36	$27,000
MBA (MS)	$750	36	$27,000
BSCSE (BS)	$600	120	$72,000
BSBA (BS)	$600	120	$72,000
ETTP (Certificate)	$500	24	$12,000

Fee Type	Amount	Frequency
Application Fee	$75	One-time
Enrollment Deposit	$300	One-time (applied to tuition)
Technology Fee	$150	Per semester
Student Services Fee	$100	Per semester
I-20 Processing Fee	$200	One-time (international)

Financial Aid

Funding Your Education

Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)

Eligible US citizens and permanent residents may apply for federal grants and loans via FAFSA.

Merit Scholarships

Academic excellence awards ranging from $1,000–$5,000 per academic year based on GPA and achievements.

Installment Payment Plans

Split tuition into monthly installments over the semester with no interest. Available to all enrolled students.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

CSTU provides documentation and transcripts for employer reimbursement programs. Day-1 CPT students often qualify.

GI Bill® & Yellow Ribbon

Veterans benefit specialists help maximize your VA education benefits at CSTU.

Common Questions

Admissions FAQ

What is Day-1 CPT and am I eligible?

Day-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to work in a field related to their major from the very first semester of enrollment — no waiting period required. CSTU's graduate programs (MSCSE, MBA) are structured so CPT is an integral part of the curriculum, making all enrolled F-1 students potentially eligible.

How long does the admissions process take?

Most applications are reviewed within 2–3 business days of submitting all required documents. International students typically receive their I-20 within 5–7 business days after acceptance.

Can I apply if I don't have a GMAT/GRE score?

CSTU does not require GMAT or GRE scores for admission. We evaluate applicants holistically based on academic record, work experience, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

When are the application deadlines?

CSTU accepts rolling applications. For Fall 2026, the priority deadline is August 22. For Spring 2027, the deadline is December 19. We recommend applying at least 4–6 weeks before your intended start date to allow time for visa processing.

What English proficiency scores are required?

We require a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 79, or IELTS 6.5. Duolingo English Test (DET) scores of 105+ are also accepted. Waivers may be granted for applicants from English-speaking countries or those who completed degrees in English.

Begin Your Journey

Accelerated Admission for AA Holders

Certificate-to-Degree Bridge

General Requirements

Application Process

Funding Your Education

Start Your Application Today