CIU Admissions

Campus Undergraduate

Start Your Journey with CIU

Planning to take your undergraduate classes on our Columbia, South Carolina campus? Here’s your go-to guide for making your CIU application process a success. Just click on each step to dive into the details!

STEP 1

Complete the Application

To begin the admissions process at CIU, you’ll need to complete the online application form.

STEP 2

Submit Required Documents

Once your application is submitted, we will need additional supporting documents to complete your admission requirements. Be sure to send these in right away, so our admissions team can begin reviewing your application.

High School Transcript

Provide an official transcript from your high school.

Note: Academic records not written in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you attended a school outside of the United States, transcripts need an International Credential Advancement Package (ICAP) evaluation by World Education Services (WES) or a formal evaluation by InCRED.

College Transcripts (if applicable)

If you’ve previously attended another college, request that your college transcript(s) be sent to CIU as well. This includes any dual enrollment courses taken prior to your intended start at CIU.

Standardized Test Scores (optional)

CIU is test-optional, meaning that submitting a SAT, ACT, or CLT score isn’t required for admission.
You may choose to submit test score(s) for the SAT, ACT, or CLT exams.
Admitted students who want to apply for South Carolina State Aid, or those who are NAIA student athletes, may still need to submit an official test score.
You do not need to complete this step if you are 24 years of age or older, or a transfer student, or international student who completed high school outside of the United States.
Entering freshman undergraduate students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements (listed above) are encouraged to submit official test scores in order to be considered for admission.

Minimum Test Scores for Admission
SAT: 970 (SAT school code 5116)
ACT: 18 (ACT school code: 3848)
CLT: 62

Additional Requirements

Some degree programs have additional admission requirements. Get more details.

STEP 3

Start Financial Aid Process

One of the most important parts of preparing for your college education is making your financial plans. We offer a variety of scholarships, grants, and loans to help you finance your education. Follow our campus undergraduate student financial aid guide to help you get the most possible aid.

STEP 4

Save Your Spot

If you’re accepted, complete these steps to reserve your spot. Welcome to CIU!

Submit Your Enrollment Deposit
This non-refundable deposit ensures that you are committed to attending. Simply pay online via the MyCIU portal.

Complete Your Housing Application
On-campus housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to complete this step early! Complete the application here.

Register for Classes
Once your deposit is received and your housing is secured, you’ll be able to work with an academic advisor to select and register for your classes within MyCIU.

Submit the FERPA Form
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) grants or denies permission to share your academic information with family members. Complete the form here.

Submit the Health Form
All incoming students are required to submit a Health Form to ensure they meet CIU’s health and immunization requirements. Complete the form here.

Submit a Photo for Your Student ID
You’ll use your student ID card throughout your time at CIU. Submit your photo here.

STEP 5

Get Ready

Before you officially start at CIU, make sure you have completed all of the necessary tasks.

Ensure you’ve completed all of the steps above and submitted all required documents and forms.
Register for Admitted Student Day, where you’ll get a preview of campus life, meet faculty and students, and explore all that CIU has waiting for you. Register now.
Submit your final, official transcripts. To confirm your graduation and finalize your enrollment, your official transcripts must be received in a sealed envelope or electronically through a third party transcript facilitator. (See Transcripts section above for details.)
Get packing! If you’re living on campus, begin gathering what you need for your dorm room so you’ll be ready when it’s time to head to campus. See you soon!