Graduate Admission (How To Apply)
Before You Apply
Speak with the College advisor or program coordinator
The college advisor or program coordinator will help you better understand the degree and admission requirements as well as the circumstances unique to your professional and educational background that may influence your admission to the University. The advisor or program coordinator can be located on each degree webpage.
To prepare for this initial discussion:
- Read through the relevant degree information on our website as well as any resources on the college/department website focusing on the degree and admission requirements.
- Prepare your qualifications – Is your professional experience relevant? Do you have existing credits to transfer into the program? Have you taken the GRE? Does your undergraduate GPA meet the minimum requirements?
- Think about the experience you desire in the program – Do you want to conduct research or independent study? Do you ever want to take a semester off? Do you want to go on to a Ph.D.?
Minimum Admission Requirements
Degree programs offered through CSU OnlinePlus have the same admission requirements as the University, though some degree programs have additional or more stringent requirements. Unless otherwise stated, the following requirements are applicable (check each degree webpage for exceptions or additional requirements).
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on all undergraduate coursework.
- GRE scores
Before your application for graduate study to Colorado State University is considered, all application materials must be received. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on a number of factors, including prior academic and professional experience.
Step 1 – Apply Online
Complete the online graduate application form and pay the $50 nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online).
Paper applications are not available for graduate admissions.
Step 2 – Submit Application Materials
U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
Gather all of the following materials and submit directly to the department in which you plan to study in one complete packet:
- Three Letters of Recommendation
In sealed envelopes. It is recommended that letters come from faculty and professional associates that can speak to your ability to complete graduate study. Check each degree webpage directly to determine if a specific form or format is required.
- Official Transcripts
Include one copy of official transcripts of all collegiate work completed from every institution attended, whether or not you received a degree from those institutions. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required.
- GRE Test Scores (if necessary – check directly with the department)
Submit official GRE General Test scores through the Educational Testing Service (select institution code: 4075). Scores are typically received by the University 4-6 weeks after your testing date.
- Additional Materials
Many departments require additional information to complete the admission process. Visit each degree webpage for more information.
Note: regardless of citizenship, applicants may be required to demonstrate proof of English proficiency.
Track II Applicants Only
Track II admission is available only to individuals who have at least five years of appropriate professional experience following the award of a baccalaureate degree and whose undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0.
In addition to the materials listed above (or those listed on each degree webpage), Track II applicants also need to submit the following items to the department:
- Three Letters of Recommendation
Written by individuals in at least two of the following categories: previous or current college/university instructors; previous or current, immediate professional supervisors; observers, other than supervisors, who can verify the specific impact of the applicant's professional or intellectual expertise.
- Statement of Purpose
- Include summary of long-term professional or personal goals.
- Statement regarding your educational goals.
- Statement indicating how this education will contribute to your long-term goals.
- List of factors that led the applicant to consider Colorado State for graduate study.
- Current Resume
- Record of all collegiate work, including names of institutions, periods of attendance, and degrees earned.
- Record of all professional employment including dates of service (including military).
- List of any special skills or competencies (including certifications and licensures).
- List of publications, exhibitions, prizes, awards, or other recognition.
- List of service activities (including community and charitable).
International Applicants Only
In addition to the materials listed above, international applicants also need to submit the following items. Submit all materials (including those above) to the Office of Admissions.
- Official Transcripts
Ensure official copies include a certified translation into English (only
one set of transcripts is required).
- Official TOEFL/IELTS Scores
The minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score for admission without condition is 213 (computer-based) or 80 (Internet-based) and 550 (paper-based). The minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score for admission without condition is 6.0. Official scores taken within two years prior to admission must be submitted directly from the Educational Testing Service (select institution code: 4075).
Conditional admission may be possible for students with TOEFL scores between 133 and 212 (computer-based) or IELTS scores between 4.0 and 6.0, with the provision that you achieve adequate proficiency in English (TOEFL score of 213 or IELTS of 6.0) before registering for courses or that you satisfactorily complete an Intensive English Program. Approval of both the department and the Vice Provost of Graduate Affairs are necessary for such conditional admission.
- Proof of Financial Support
Submit the GS3-F Form to show evidence of adequate financial support as required before an immigration document can be issued by Colorado State University.
Application Deadlines
The application deadlines listed below are general deadlines for the University. Some degree programs offered through OnlinePlus have different deadlines which may be found on the degree webpage; admission during the summer semester is not always available.
| Fall Semester |
April 1 |
| Spring Semester |
September 1 |
| Summer Semester |
January 1 (check each degree for availability) |
After You Apply
After you have submitted your application and mailed your supporting materials, the department admission committee will review your application and will make their recommendation to the Graduate School for final approval. Time can vary between the time you submit an application and a response from the University – some
departments meet more often than others (once a week to once a month) – so allow up to six weeks to be informed of the decision. To check on the status of your application, contact the department to which you are applying.
After a decision has been made, you will receive an official approval or denial letter from the University in the mail.
After you apply, you have the option to register for courses. Admission is not required to register for courses through OnlinePlus. If you intend to take credit courses and apply them to a degree program in the future, check the degree and admission requirements of CSU and the degree you are interested in. All degrees offered through OnlinePlus (and CSU) require that the majority of courses be taken after you are admitted to the University. Learn more about degree requirements »