What is the admission process to Cincinnati State?

Cincinnati State is an open-enrollment institution.  You are guaranteed admission as long as you complete the application process.  If you are seeking an Associate's Degree or a Certificate, you must complete the three admissions steps in order to be admitted:

1) Submit the Application for Admission.  Apply online here.

2) If you graduated from high school, have your school mail us an official copy of your transcript.  Transcripts brought in by the student or Faxed will not be considered official and will not be accepted.  If you did not graduate from high school, you must have a GED to be admitted to Cincinnati State.  Please attach a copy of your GED to your application, or you may bring a copy in yourself.  (GEDs may be hand delivered.)  If you listed any colleges/universities on your application, have your colleges/universites mail us an official copy of your transcripts. 

3) Take the ACT COMPASS Test.  This is a placement test used to determine if a student is ready for college level courses, or if the student needs basic courses before starting the college courses. It is not pass or fail.  You must have a photo ID to take the COMPASS test.

What are my chances of being accepted at Cincinnati State?

Cincinnati State is an open-enrollment college.  That means that everyone has access to the courses and degree programs we offer.  You will not be denied admission based on GPA or test scores.  Anyone who completes the three steps of the admission process is fully admitted as a degree or certificate seeking student.

When can I start classes?

Cincinnati State has rolling admission, which means each of the five terms throughout the year is equally weighted.  Students can begin any of those terms, not just in the fall.  To be admitted as a degree or certificate seeking student we must have your application, appropriate transcripts and Compass test scores prior to the beginning of the term.

How do I find more information on the Compass test?

Click on "Compass Test" in the menu on the left.  You will find information on taking the test as well as a link to the most frequently asked questions about the test.

What is the difference between a degree and a certificate?

A degree is a two-year program that includes courses in general education, such subjects as English, math, social sciences, etc.  Graduates leave the college with an Associate’s Degree.  A certificate program requires significantly fewer courses, and generally lasts only a year.  It provides only the essential training necessary to work in that field and does not include an opportunity to co-op.  Certificate programs are generally appropriate for people who are trying to change careers, would like further training in their specific field, or serious hobbyists.  Degree programs generally take two years while certificate programs generally take only one year.  Certificate programs do not qualify for federal financial aid, nor do the applicants qualify for reciprocity when they might otherwise have.

I do not want a degree or a certificate at this time.  Do I have to go through the admission process if I only want to take a few classes?

No.  If you are not seeking an Associate's degree or Certificate and you want to take classes only, you do not have to complete the admissions process.  Simply fill out a Non-Degree Student Form in the Registrar's Office.  With this form you are able to take classes.

What steps do I need to take to receive financial aid?

To apply for financial aid you should: 1) Pick up and complete the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) form.  (Late applications will be considered if funds are available.) You will need your W-2 to assist you in completing the application process.  2) If you have attended a college or university prior to attending Cincinnati State, you must request a Financial Aid Transcript from each institution you have attended, to be sent to Cincinnati State.  This must be done even if you did not receive financial aid. 3) You must be fully admitted to Cincinnati State in order to receive financial aid. 4) Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, and work-study to qualified students.  You must be admitted in order to receive financial aid, but you may fill out the FAFSA before the admission process is complete.  The amount of aid you will receive can be determined only after Cincinnati State receives your information from the Department of Education, which processes all financial aid applications.  Once both the application and the FAFSA are complete, you can find the results of your award at MYCSTATE.

How do I get access to student information on the Cincinnati State website?

A username and password are needed to register, request transcripts, etc. online.  When Degree or Non-Degree Applications are received, applicants will automatically be assigned a username and password.  Your username is a combination of first initial, middle initial and last name.  Your default password is your 7-digit student ID (shown on registration statements, grade reports, etc.).  Click on "MYCSTATE" on the upper right portion of your screen and login where indicated.

I forgot my password or username, now what do I do?

If you forget your password or username, contact the College's IT helpdesk at (513) 569-1234, then press "1."

Does Cincinnati State offer housing?

No.  We are a commuter campus, and have no dormitories, however there are many apartment complexes and houses available for rent in close proximity to the college.

Does Cincinnati State offer extracurricular activities?

Yes, you are encouraged to attend athletic events, and participate in clubs and organizations, and student activities for more information call 569-1556 or go to Room 162.