NOTE: A version of this article was originally written and published by Brittany Fillmore on August, 11, 2017. It was edited and updated by Jazmin Hill in February 2026. 

Applying to college can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, regardless of where you are in life. For some people, deciding to return to school represents a goal that may have been paused by work schedules, family responsibilities or other life commitments. If you have started your degree journey before and are considering picking it back up, you likely have questions about transfer credits, flexibility, financial aid and how the process works this time around. 

To help you navigate the admission process with clarity and confidence, our admissions team has answered some of the most frequently asked questions below. 

1. Do I need an associate degree before enrolling in a bachelor’s program?  

No. An associate degree is not required to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Associate and bachelor’s degrees are both considered undergraduate programs. Students may enroll in these programs with either a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. 

2. Does CSU offer preliminary evaluations before applying?  

No. To complete an official transfer credit evaluation, CSU requires a completed application and all transcripts from previously attended institutions. Evaluations are completed after all admission documentation is received. 

3. What is the cost, and what are my payment options?  

Tuition rates vary by program and degree level. Current tuition information is available on the Tuition Overview page of the CSU website.  

CSU offers several flexible payment options, including:  

• Employer tuition assistance  
• Federal Student Aid  
• Military and veteran education benefits  
• Monthly payment plans  
• Self-pay 

You can explore detailed information on the Payment Options page of the university website. To be eligible to receive Federal Student Aid (FSA) to attend CSU, applicants must meet all FSA eligibility requirements. The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

CSU’s school code is 041215. 

Once your FAFSA has been submitted and processed, the Financial Aid Office will review your eligibility for grants and/or federal student loans. 

4. What does the course workload consist of? Can I enroll in two programs at the same time? 

Coursework varies by program, but most classes may include:  

• Journals  
• Quizzes or exams 
• Discussion board posts 
• Occasional live lectures, depending on the course 
• Written assignments, such as essays or projects  

Courses follow weekly due dates. Students have 24/7 access to the online portal, allowing flexibility to complete assignments around work, family and other commitments. 

CSU doesn't currently offer dual enrollment in two degree programs simultaneously.   

5. What resources are available to help me succeed?  

CSU offers our students many resources to aid in their success and extra means of assistance. 

• The Success Center has math and writing specialists available to assist students with course requirements.  
• The Career Services department is available to students who would like help with career exploration, interview preparation, and resumes and cover letters. 
• The Office of Disability Services is available to assist students with accommodation planning. 

6. Why do I have an academic advisor? 

As part of the Success Center, the Academic Advising Center at CSU strives to give you a partner in your academic career, a point person on whom you can depend. No question is too big or small for your advisor, and many students develop close bonds with their advisor by the end of their CSU educational journey. 

7. Can I take a break or skip terms after enrolling?  

Yes. Students may request a Leave of Absence (LOA) in accordance with the CSU Student Handbook policy. The Leave of Absence policy outlines eligibility requirements, timelines, and any impact on financial aid. Students are encouraged to review the handbook and speak with their academic advisor before requesting a leave. 

8. What happens if I fail a course?

If you find yourself with a failing grade, talk to your academic advisor about your next steps. Typically, they will suggest retaking the course as quickly as possible as this will replace your F with an R, which means “retake.” This is the quickest and most direct way to improve your GPA and get back on track.   

9. Can I apply if my previous college transcripts are currently on hold?  

Yes, you may begin the admissions process. Students may submit unofficial transcripts for initial review and enroll on a conditional status. However:  

• Official transcripts must be received before completing 12 undergraduate credit hours or 6 graduate credit hours.  
• Transfer credit cannot be officially awarded until official transcripts are received.  
• Students who do not submit required official transcripts will be unable to continue enrollment beyond those credit limits.  

More details are available in the Admission Documentation Guidelines  on our website. 

10. Are textbooks required?  

Textbook requirements vary by course. Through the CSU Book Grant, most required textbooks are provided at no cost. Many courses utilize eBooks, and shipping charges may apply if a physical textbook is required.  

11. Is CSU military-friendly?  

Yes. Columbia Southern University proudly serves active-duty service members, veterans and military families through:  

• Acceptance of Military Tuition Assistance (TA) and VA education benefits (GI Bill®)  
• Tuition rates aligned with Department of Defense TA caps for eligible active-duty members  
• Military-focused scholarships, including opportunities for veterans and military spouses  
• Dedicated military support staff who assist with benefits and enrollment  
• Flexible online programs designed to accommodate deployments, permanent change of station (PCS) moves and changing schedules 

Additional information can be found on the military section of the CSU website. 

12. How do I know how many credits will transfer into my degree program? 

CSU will review your transcripts to determine how many credits will transfer into a degree program. Before your transcript evaluation begins, you will need to submit your application, all transcripts from previously attended institutions, and any relevant training certificates. 

Maximum transfer credits: 

• Associate degree: Up to 45 credit hours 
• Bachelor’s degree: Up to 90 credit hours 
• Master’s degree: Up to 24 credit hours 
• Doctoral programs: Up to 40 credit hours 

Full details are available under the Transfer Credit Policy on the Admissions page. 

13. Does CSU offer scholarships?  

Yes. CSU offers various scholarship opportunities for qualifying students. You can review eligibility requirements, application deadlines and available awards on the Scholarships page of the university website. 

Start or Continue Your Educational Journey at Columbia Southern University 

Columbia Southern University has a dedicated admissions team to help you every step of the way. Whether you are transferring credits, balancing work and family, or stepping back into the classroom after time away, CSU is committed to providing the flexibility and guidance you need to reach graduation with confidence.  

Learn more by visiting the admissions process and the online learning experience pages on the CSU website.  

NOTE: A version of this article was originally written and published by Brittany Fillmore on August, 11, 2017. It was edited and updated by Jazmin Hill in February 2026.