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Concordia University - St. Paul: Programs, Fees, and How to Apply

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Concordia University, St. Paul is a private Lutheran university in St. Paul, Minnesota, with 3 campuses across the United States and online. International students can choose from 100+ undergraduate, graduate certificate, and master's degree programs across 2 intakes per year: August (Fall) and January (Spring). Many programs include Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) opportunities, and Concordia University, St. Paul is consistently ranked among the top universities for graduate outcomes, with 98% of graduates finding employment or continuing their education within 9 months of completing their program.

Smiling student holding a laptop connected to diverse international peers at Concordia University, St. Paul in the USA education system.

About Concordia University, St. Paul

Established in 1893, Concordia University, St. Paul enrolls 5,797 students across campuses in St. Paul, Denver, and Portland, and online. The main campus is at St. Paul, located approximately 10 miles from Minneapolis. The Twin Cities region is one of the fastest-growing technology and innovation corridors, making Concordia University, St. Paul a well-positioned choice for students targeting careers in Business, Health Sciences, and Education.

Concordia University, St. Paul is a leader in applied education, delivering career-focused programs developed in close partnership with industry. The university is consistently ranked among the best institutions for graduate employment and satisfaction by students, graduates, and employers.

Detail Information
Institution type Private Lutheran university (established 1893)
State Minnesota, USA
Campuses St. Paul, MN (main), Denver, CO, Portland, OR, and Online
Total enrollment 5,797 students
Programs offered 100+ bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs
Graduate outcomes 98% find employment or continue education within 9 months of graduation
Intakes Fall (August), Spring (January) — no summer intake for new international students
Post-Study Work Eligibility Eligible for OPT (up to 3 years for STEM programs)

Explore Concordia University, St. Paul Programs

Sign in to your ApplyBoard account or register today to view available programs, requirements, and document checklists for Concordia University, St. Paul.

Concordia University, St. Paul Fees for International Students

For the 2026–2027 academic year, international undergraduate tuition at Concordia University, St. Paul is $27,200 USD, and CSP has already announced it will lower traditional undergraduate tuition by $5,500 for 2027–2028, bringing it to $21,700 USD per year. Graduate tuition is billed per credit and varies by program, ranging from approximately $395 to $965 USD per credit for the 2026–2027 year. Because costs vary significantly by degree and are subject to change, we recommend checking the Concordia University, St. Paul tuition and financial aid page to get an accurate, current figure for your specific program before applying.

 Note: Tuition at Concordia University, St. Paul is billed per semester (undergraduate) or per credit (graduate) and is set annually. Fees vary by program and are listed on individual program pages. The figures shown here are estimates only and reflect the 2026–2027 academic year unless otherwise noted. Always confirm the exact cost for your program before applying.

Cost Item Amount Notes
International tuition (undergraduate) $27,200 USD/year (2026–27); dropping to $21,700 USD/year in 2027–28 Based on 12–19 credits/year; confirm on program page
International tuition (graduate) ~$395–$965 USD per credit Billed per credit; varies by program (e.g., Education is lower, Physician Assistant is higher)
International Student Fee $2,400/year (traditional undergrad) or $1,200/term (CSP Global graduate) Covers immigration support, orientation, and international student services
Application fee USD $0 No application fee required
Enrollment deposit USD $100 Required to confirm your offer of admission

How to Pay Tuition

Concordia University, St. Paul accepts international tuition payments through multiple secure methods designed to help you pay in your home currency while avoiding unnecessary international wire fees.

  • Transact International Payments: Processed directly within the CSPConnect student portal, allowing you to pay from over 160 countries using more than 130 currencies, including alternative methods like Alipay and WeChat.
  • Flywire: A dedicated portal that simplifies the international payment process, offering favorable exchange rates and familiar payment methods like local bank transfers and e-payments.
  • PayMyTuition: Allows you to pay from any bank, in any country, and in any currency, backed by a rate guarantee and multilingual customer support.

Full step-by-step payment instructions and portal access will be available to you upon admission.

International Student Scholarships

Concordia University, St. Paul automatically awards merit scholarships to eligible international students during the admissions process based on academic achievement. For the 2026–2027 academic year, undergraduate merit awards range from USD $1,000 to $11,000 per year and are renewable for students who maintain academic eligibility. Note that CSP has already announced lower scholarship amounts for the 2027–2028 academic year as part of its broader tuition reset.

Scholarship Name Award Amount (2026–27) Eligibility / Notes
Regents' Scholarship USD $11,000/year New traditional undergraduates with a 3.9-4.0 GPA
President's Scholarship USD $9,000/year New traditional undergraduates with a 3.5-3.89 GPA
University Scholarship USD $7,000/year New traditional undergraduates with a 3.0-3.49 GPA
Concordia Scholarship USD $3,000/year New traditional undergraduates with a 2.5-2.99 GPA
Recognition Award USD $1,000/year New traditional undergraduates with a 2.0-2.49 GPA

 Note: Scholarship availability and eligibility criteria are subject to change, and CSP has confirmed lower award amounts will apply starting the 2027–2028 academic year. Check the Concordia University, St. Paul tuition and financial aid page for the most up-to-date information and application deadlines.

Programs at Concordia University, St. Paul

Concordia University, St. Paul offers over 100 programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree levels. The university has several academic schools/colleges, with particular strengths in Business, Computer Science, Nursing, and Education. For international students applying through ApplyBoard, here are four of the most popular programs:

Master of Science in Information Technology Management

This highly sought-after, STEM-designated program bridges the gap between technology and business strategy. It equips students with the leadership skills needed for tech management roles and offers extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

A dynamic program designed to develop strategic leadership, critical thinking, and practical management skills. Developed in partnership with industry leaders, the CSP MBA prepares graduates for top-tier roles across diverse global industries.

Master of Science in Computer Science

Focused on advanced technical skills, software development, and modern computing theories. As a STEM-designated program, it is incredibly popular for international students targeting the robust US tech sector and the fast-growing Twin Cities innovation corridor.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

A foundational undergraduate degree that provides comprehensive technical acumen in programming, data structures, and systems design. It offers a strong pathway to both immediate employment and advanced graduate studies.

 Note: Check the ApplyBoard platform for a full list of currently available programs, intakes, and STEM-designated options for Concordia University, St. Paul. 

Admission Requirements

Entry requirements at Concordia University, St. Paul vary by program level. The general minimums below are a guide — always confirm specific requirements for your chosen program before applying.

  • Undergraduate programs: A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Some programs have higher or additional subject-specific requirements.
  • Graduate programs: A minimum GPA of 3.0 in a completed bachelor's degree. Some programs require a degree in a related field, or GRE/GMAT scores.
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions are required (often requiring a credential evaluation like WES or another NACES-approved service for international transcripts).
  • Passport: A valid passport is required.

English Language Requirements

Most international applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test. Minimum scores vary by program — confirm the requirement for your specific program on the Concordia University, St. Paul program page or the ApplyBoard platform before applying.

Check Eligibility and Start Applying

Ready to take the next step? Access your dashboard to review your eligibility and manage your application documents for Concordia University, St. Paul.

How to Apply to Concordia University, St. Paul Through ApplyBoard

You apply to Concordia University, St. Paul through the ApplyBoard platform. The application fee is USD $0 at the time of submission. Processing begins once Concordia University, St. Paul has received a complete application.

 Note: Submission processing timelines are optimized for rapid turnaround. ApplyBoard typically completes the submission pipeline within 24 hours of receipt. Once submitted to the institution, standard evaluation timelines apply.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Before you apply, prepare the following documents:

  • Valid passport (biographical page)
  • Official academic transcripts (with certified English translations and credential evaluations if required)
  • English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo)
  • Financial declaration or bank statements showing sufficient funds for one year of study
Step 2: Submit your application on ApplyBoard

Submit your application through the ApplyBoard platform. Choose your program, preferred campus, and intake. Apply as early as possible — popular programs fill up quickly. Note that Concordia's Fall priority deadline is December 1 (final deadline July 1), and its Spring final deadline is November 1; summer admission is not currently offered to new international students.

Step 3: Receive your Offer of Admission

Once reviewed, you will receive an Official Letter of Admission. Review it carefully to accept your offer and note any enrollment deadlines.

Step 4: Pay your enrollment deposit and request your I-20

Pay the required enrollment deposit ($100 USD) and submit your financial documents (if not already done) to request your Form I-20. The Form I-20 is a critical legal document that certifies your eligibility for nonimmigrant student status. You cannot apply for a visa without it.

Step 5: Apply for your F-1 Student Visa

Once you have your Form I-20, you must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for your F-1 Student Visa. You will complete the DS-160 form online and schedule a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.

Step 6: Arrive and enroll

Travel to your campus city and attend international student orientation.

 Note: International students in the US are generally required to have health insurance and meet specific immunization requirements before registering for classes.

Frequently Asked Questions: Concordia University, St. Paul

Where is Concordia University, St. Paul located?

Concordia University, St. Paul has 3 physical campuses — St. Paul, MN (main), Denver, CO, and Portland, OR — plus online programs. The main campus is located approximately 10 miles from Minneapolis.

What is the I-20 process at Concordia University, St. Paul?

After you receive your official offer of admission and pay your required enrollment deposit, you must submit proof of funding. Once verified, Concordia University, St. Paul's international office will issue your Form I-20. You will use this document to apply for your F-1 student visa.

Does Concordia University, St. Paul offer OPT/CPT opportunities?

Yes. Eligible international students at Concordia University, St. Paul on an F-1 visa can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience during their studies, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for post-graduation employment. Students in designated STEM programs may be eligible for an OPT extension.

Can international students work while studying at Concordia University, St. Paul?

Yes, but with strict limitations. F-1 students are generally permitted to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and full-time during official school breaks. Off-campus employment requires specific authorization (like CPT or OPT) and must be related to your field of study.

Concordia University, St. Paul offers international students a career-focused education in the heart of Minnesota. If you are ready to explore programs and apply, your ApplyBoard counselor can guide you through every step.

Explore Concordia University, St. Paul Programs

Browse all available Concordia University, St. Paul programs on the ApplyBoard platform and apply today.