FindU
Find Your FitFor CollegesAboutBlog
Sign inGet Started
Home/Colleges/Ohio/Central State University
Central State University campus photo 1
Central State University campus photo 2
Central State University campus photo 3
Central State University campus photo 4
Central State University campus photo 5
1 / 5
Central State University logo

Central State University

Wilberforce, Ohio · Public

$17k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
CAcademics
C+Admissions
BStudent Life
C+Overall

About

Central State University is located in Wilberforce, Ohio. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 3,412 students.

centralstate.edu
HBCU

Cost and aid

True cost

$17kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$7,824
Out-of-state tuition$9,824
Room & board$11,390
Avg aid package$6,318
Students receiving aid42%
Pell grant recipients42%

Central State University is committed to making college affordable, offering a Marauder Tuition Guarantee with zero tuition increases over four years. In-state tuition is approximately $7,824, while out-of-state tuition is around $9,824. Ninety percent of students receive financial aid, with an average total aid award of $6,318.

What would you actually pay?FindU estimates your real net price for Central State University from your family income.
Calculate my net priceFree · 2 min

Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate46%
Average GPA2.50
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$35

Central State University has an acceptance rate ranging from 50% to 59%, making it an averagely selective institution. The university looks for students with strong academic records and grades, and international applicants are eligible to apply. The admissions process aims to help students find their best pathway to a bright future.

Will you get into Central State University?FindU calculates your real admission odds from your stats.
Show me my oddsFree · 2 min

Academics

Graduation rate25%
Retention rate51%
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Full-time faculty100%

Central State University offers a nurturing environment that fosters academic excellence, with a strong liberal arts foundation. The university emphasizes teaching, research, and service, encouraging students to be productive members of society. Many professors are dedicated and passionate, providing personalized attention and useful feedback in smaller class sizes.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$33,267
Avg starting salary$51,000
Earn more than HS grad46%
Economic mobility207%
Loan default (3 yr)17%
Loan repayment (3 yr)17%

Central State University prepares students for leadership, research, and service, with a focus on career-focused programs. Graduates in Criminal Justice and Corrections earn approximately $45,484, while those in Business/Commerce earn around $45,357 five years after graduation. Career services provide valuable support, including internship opportunities and job fairs.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
3,412Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 66%Male 34%
49% BlackRacial diversity
Black 49%White 18%Hispanic 9%Asian 2%Other 22%
Campus housingYes

Central State University provides a warm, community-oriented HBCU environment steeped in tradition and culture. The campus has a family-like feel, with a close-knit atmosphere where many students know each other. Athletics have a dedicated following, and the university offers a range of social and educational activities.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Student

So far, my time at Central State University has been thrilling and full of fresh starts. I adore the friendships I've already formed and my roommates. The campus has become more vibrant and friendly as a result of meeting new people and going to events and parties. I am thoroughly enjoying my business course and am eager to learn more as the semester progresses.

Student

Central State University offers a warm, community-oriented HBCU environment, steeped in tradition, culture, and academic innovation, particularly in STEM, agriculture, media, and business. Students rave about the supportive faculty and spirited campus life. However, operational improvements—especially in administrative efficiency, housing, and food—are clearly needed and echoed in student feedback.

Student

Central State is a small campus so it's easy to meet people and make friends.

Cost and value

Student

CSU is worth the price tag, there's always something to day, the teachers are helpful.

Student

Central State is Ohio's most affordable University. You gain knowledge and an education for a reasonable price.

About Central State University

At Central State University, the safety and well-being of residents is a top priority. Each residence hall is equipped with a team of trained professional and paraprofessional staff who live on-site and are readily available to provide assistance when needed. The university also utilizes the Alertus Recipient App to provide emergency notifications.

The Central State University Honors College is a collaborative environment for exceptionally motivated and accomplished students. It offers honors scholarships, an honors residence hall, and one-on-one mentoring relationships with professors. Students can earn designations such as General Honors, Honors in the Major, University Honors, and International Honors.

Central State University provides opportunities for international students to engage with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds. The university offers visa support, ESL programs, and cultural resources to help international students transition to college life. Living on campus fosters a stronger sense of community connection.

Endowment$7,061,414
Avg faculty salary$90,900

Central State University FAQ

See if Central State University is right for you

Answer a few quick questions and FindU shows your match score, your admission chances, and the scholarships you qualify for.

Show me my matchesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start
FindU Match
Free

Will you get into Central State University?

Central State University admits about 46% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
See your real result
Show me my chancesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start

More colleges in Ohio

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, Ohio

A-Overall51% admit

Ohio Northern University

Ada, Ohio

A-Overall73% admit

Wilberforce University

Wilberforce, Ohio

C+Overall53% admit

Oberlin College

Oberlin, Ohio

B+Overall33% admit

Lourdes University

Sylvania, Ohio

COverall74% admit

Sinclair Community College

Dayton, Ohio

BOverall$6k/yr net
All colleges in Ohio
Is Central State University your match?Get my match
FindU

Find Your Fit

  • Take college quiz
  • Scholarship search
  • College Search
  • Browse all tools

Company

  • About
  • Blog
  • Careers

For Partners

  • For Colleges
  • For Counselors
  • Contact Us

Legal

  • Privacy
  • Terms

Join our newsletter