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.
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.
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.
Tuition rates vary by program and degree level. Current tuition information is available on the Tuition Overview page of the CSU website. Our cost comparison calculator lets you see exactly how our tuition and fees measure up to other schools nationwide.
CSU offers several flexible payment options, including:
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.
Coursework varies by program, but most classes may include:
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.
CSU offers our students many resources to aid in their success and extra means of assistance.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, you may begin the admissions process. Students may submit unofficial transcripts for initial review and enroll on a conditional status. However:
More details are available in the Admission Documentation Guidelines on our website.
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.
Yes. Columbia Southern University proudly serves active-duty service members, veterans and military families through:
Additional information can be found on the military section of the CSU website.
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:
Full details are available under the Transfer Credit Policy on the Admissions page.
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.
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.
Disclaimer:
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth. Testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
We recommend that you conduct your own salary research. Salary expectations are dependent on a number of factors like location, experience, credentials, benefits offered, etc. There are a wide variety of sources where you can find potential salary information. We recommend that you review several to get an overall idea of potential salary for a particular field.
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