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Undergraduate Admissions

Undergraduate Admissions

Welcome to CAU Admissions

Dear Prospective Students and Families,

I am delighted to extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome to you on behalf of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at Clark Atlanta University (CAU).

I am Travis J. Batiste, ABD, M.A., and I have the distinct privilege of serving as the Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment. It is both an honor and a pleasure to be a part of this esteemed institution, known for its legacy of academic excellence and commitment to fostering future leaders.

At CAU, we are dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience that empowers our students to excel academically, lead ethically, and positively impact society. We believe in the power of knowledge, diversity, and innovation to create a brighter future, and we invite you to embark on this incredible journey with us.

Our admissions team is here to guide you through the application process, answer your questions, and assist you every step of the way. Whether you are a high school student preparing for college, a transfer student seeking new opportunities, or a parent supporting your child's educational aspirations, we are here to support your unique needs and goals.

As you explore CAU, you will discover a vibrant and inclusive community, a diverse range of academic programs, and a faculty committed to your success. Our campus is a place where ideas are nurtured, talents are cultivated, and dreams are realized. We invite you to immerse yourself in our rich history, culture, and traditions while embracing the future we are shaping together.

I encourage you to connect with us, attend our events, and explore our website to learn more about what makes CAU a special place to pursue your higher education journey. Feel free to reach out to our admissions team at any time; we are here to serve you and provide the information you need to make informed decisions about your future.

Thank you for considering Clark Atlanta University as your academic home. We are excited to learn more about you and your aspirations, and we look forward to welcoming you into the CAU family.

Wishing you a successful admissions process and a bright future filled with endless possibilities.

Warm regards,

Travis J. Batiste, ABD, M.A.
Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment
Office of Student Recruitment and Admissions
Clark Atlanta University

About CAU Admissions

I Shall Find A Way or Make One

This was the ancient general Hannibal’s response when he was asked how he would cross a mountain range with elephants. Its also a motto that has inspired generations of Clark Atlanta University students. But what does that mean? It begins with your decision to combine confidence, preparation, and commitment.

Clark Atlanta University is in search of finders and makers: innovative, creative, and conscious leaders prepared to address the challenges of their world and communities. This is a training ground for you to develop as a person and professional: combining small class experiences with research, performances, exhibitions, or even hackathons. You will develop strong relationships within the village of students, faculty, staff, and alumni. And with all of that preparation you too will be able to chart your course through your mountains. 

With all of your training and the legion of CAU Panther alumni cheering you on–Find a Way or Make One!

 

Undergraduate Academic Programs

Clark Atlanta University serves a diverse student body Clark Atlanta University offers advanced degree and non-degree certificate programs through our four schools:

These schools are focused on leadership development, professional ethics, and the highest caliber of instruction and research excellence. 

This 150-year legacy continues as CAU prepares graduate students for distinguished careers in research, teaching, and as experts in the public and private sectors.

A complete application package includes the following credentials:

  • Application for Admission: The Clark Atlanta University Application
  • Non-refundable $35 application fee payable by credit card, money order, or cashier’s check.
  • Official high school transcript(s) or GED certificate. [Applicants taking dual enrollment in high school are also required to submit an official transcript from each college or university attended.]
    • Transcripts can be sent using the following options: Parchment (select “Admissions Only”); Clearinghouse; or via email to admissions@cau.edu.
  • Test score results from the SAT or ACT [We are currently test optional for all students.]
  • International Students from a non-English speaking secondary country may submit the TOEFL or IELTS instead of the ACT or SAT, including WES translation.
Recommended Curriculum:

We consider the applicant’s secondary school academic record, standardized college entrance exams (SAT or ACT), leadership in school and community activities, unique talents and skills, and educational objectives. For admission consideration, an applicant should have a well-balanced college preparatory program that includes the following course work:

  • 4 units English
  • 3 units Mathematics
  • 3 units Electives
  • 3 units Natural Science
  • 2 units Social Science
  • 2 units Foreign Language
    • A student may be admitted with less than two units in a foreign language but may be required to take language at CAU depending on the students selected major. We recommend foreign language in preparing for CAU so that students will spend less time fulfilling this requirement through coursework or a placement exam.
Application Deadlines

Fall 2025

  • Early Action (Non-binding): application due November 1; students should be notified via email by January 1
  • Final Deadline for First Year Students: application due March 1; students notified via email on a rolling, weekly basis. Fall 2025 applications are now closed
  • Transfer Student Deadline for Fall: application due June 1

Spring 2025

  • Applicants interested in spring enrollment must submit completed application, including supporting documents, by November 1.
Additional Information

Many documents can be submitted online by a counselor through email [admissions@cau.edu] or our online applications. You may choose to mail transcript(s) and recommendations to:
Clark Atlanta University
Office of Admission
223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW
Atlanta, GA 30314

Admission Requirements 

Admission Requirements—First-Year Students Important Update: For the current application cycle (Students Entering Fall 2024 and Spring 2025), we will continue our test optional policy.

Students will not be required to submit standardized test scores, and students that may be negatively impacted by their scores will automatically be considered test optional. CAU practices a holistic admission review policy, which considers the applicant’s secondary school academic record, standardized college entrance exams, if available (SAT or ACT), leadership in school and community activities, unique talents and skills, and educational objectives.

We have included data from our most recent class to help you understand the student that had the greatest likelihood to be admitted to Clark Atlanta, not as cutoffs or minimums—just the average.

Class of 2024 Profile (Fall 2024)

  • Average GPA: 3.71
  • Average Combined SAT: 1036
  • Average ACT Composite: 20

How to Apply

The Clark Atlanta University Application is the preferred way to apply. Our application for the spring and fall semesters opens each August 1st. We are a member of The Common Application and Common Black College Application

When to Apply

First year students sincerely interested in Clark Atlanta University for fall admission should apply between August and October of their senior year. This is our non-binding, Early Action application period.

Students interested in receiving merit scholarships should also apply during this time.

Please note that all application materials should be received before the deadline for Early Action to be considered for scholarships.

Other than Early Action, the deadlines are for the application form only, and we will continue to accept supporting documents [transcripts, recommendations, etc.] after these posted deadlines.

  • Early Action (Non-binding): application due November 1; students should be notified via email by January 1
  • Final Deadline for First Year Students: application due March 1; students notified via email on a rolling, weekly basis
  • Transfer Student Deadline for Fall: application due June 1
  • Applicants interested in spring enrollment must submit completed application, including supporting documents, by November 1.
  • Fall 2025 applications are now closed
Transferring to Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University welcomes applications from students who have attended or are currently attending other universities or colleges and who seek to transfer to CAU. 

Non-remedial courses with passing grades, from regionally accredited institutions are generally accepted. The maximum number of credits that can be transferred to the University is ninety (90).

Transfer applicants must be in good standing financially, academically, and in all other areas with their previous regionally accredited institution in order to be admitted to CAU.

Applicants must also complete and submit the following by the designated deadline:

  • Clark Atlanta University Application with a $35.00 non-refundable application fee. 
  • One official transcript from each post-secondary institution(s) attended (transcript must show a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and 12 transferable credit hours).
  • Official final high school transcript(s) from each attended secondary school (graduate date must be present on transcript)

Before beginning the application process, prospective transfer students should be sure they are eligible for transfer admission.

Transfer Admission Requirements

CAU grants admissions to transfer applicants who have 12 or more semester hours (18 quarter hours) and a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or higher on all college work attempted at a previously attended, regionally accredited college or university.

An applicant with less than the minimum required hours will be evaluated as a first-time freshman and must submit official final high school records and all college transcripts.

A transfer applicant must complete an application for admission and list all previous colleges and/or universities and must include the records from these institutions. Any applicant who does not include a record from all previously attended institutions is subject to dismissal from the University.

The University requires that transfer applicants demonstrate satisfactory academic achievement, good character, and separation in good standing from all regionally accredited institutions previously attended.

Applicants may not transfer grades below “C.” Transfer applicants must submit all materials by the deadlines established for application to the University for the term for which admission is sought.

How to Apply

Applicants must also complete and submit the following by the designated deadline:

  • Clark Atlanta University Application with a $35.00 non-refundable application fee. 
  • One official transcript from each post-secondary institution(s) attended (transcript must show a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA and 12 transferable credit hours).
  • Official final high school transcript(s) from each attended secondary school (graduate date must be present on transcript).

Before beginning the application process, prospective transfer applicants should be sure they are eligible for transfer admissions. 

Students commit to Clark Atlanta University by submitting a nonrefundable $275 confirmation fee.

This non-refundable payment deadline is April 15, 2024 for first year students entering the University in the Fall 2024 Semester. It is important to view and accept the student’s financial aid award before paying this fee unless your family intends to pay the full cost of attendance out of pocket.

In that case, the Office of Student Accounts has a variety of methods to accept payments or make payment arrangements.

Follow the Steps on the Fall 2024 Admitted Student Checklist before paying the $275 non-refundable confirmation fee.

After paying the confirmation fee, continue the steps on the Fall 2024 Admitted Student Checklist to submit student health information; apply for housing; and make payment arrangements for the upcoming semester, if necessary.

Click the link below to view the Fall 2024 Admitted Student Checklist
Fall 2024 Admitted Student Checklist
Fall 2024 International Student Checklist

Clark Atlanta has been involved in a partnership with the Community Colleges of California since 2015 and this allows students attending any of the California community or junior colleges to transfer to CAU upon completing their associates with junior status. Further information can be obtained by visiting the program website or contacting the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at admissions@cau.edu.

International Students

International students applying to Clark Atlanta University (CAU) must submit a completed application, official transcripts, and proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS. While SAT or ACT scores may be required in some cases, CAU currently follows a test-optional policy for all applicants.

Application Requirements:

  • Application: Submit an online application via the Common App, Black Common App, or CAU Online App.
  • Application Fee: Pay the required non-refundable application fee.
  • Official Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all previously attended high schools and/or post-secondary institutions. These transcripts must be evaluated through World Education Services (WES).

English Proficiency: International students must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency.

1-3 business days after paying the confirmation fee, use these instructions to set up your CAU email account:

Navigate to https://studentssb-prod.ec.cau.edu/StudentSelfService/login/auth  

  • Enter your User ID (Student ID) and PIN (in Acceptance letter)
  • Click on “Student Profile”
  • Write down the information for the CAU email address

Return to www.cau.edu and scroll to the bottom of the page to find “My Password Portal”

  • Enter Domain User Name (first part of your email address before @ sign) and click Continue
  • Enter 900 number, security verification, and click Continue
  • Enter New Password, Confirm New Password, security verification, and click Reset Password
  • Password requirements: minimum 13 characters, must contain at least one of the following Letters, 1-Lowercase Letter, and 1 number and/or special character

After you successfully reset your password, you must register for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

  • Navigate to www.cau.edu
  • Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on MyCAU
  • Enter your CAU email address as your login name

Refer to the following link for assistance with MFA registration: Muli-Factor Authentication Help

After MFA registration is complete, and you successfully log in, you will see the MyApps portal where you can access your email, BannerWeb, Canvas, and other apps

University Admissions

Phone: (404)-880-8000
Email: admissions@cau.edu
223 James P. Brawley Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314
CAU Admissions News
Schedule Undergraduate Student Tour

Clark Atlanta University is pleased to welcome you on the Student Tour!

Tour Accommodation Guidelines 

  • Individuals/families tours are limited to three visitors per reservation (one prospective student and two guests).
  • Your tour will be facilitated by one of our professional Admissions Representative.
  • Visitors are not allowed inside the cafeteria.
  • The bookstore and restrooms in the Student Center will be open for guests.

Campus Tour Contact Information

Clark Atlanta University
Office of Student Recruitment and Admissions
223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30314
E-Mail: tours@cau.edu

We request that all guests plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time to avoid any cancellation of tours due to late arrival.

By registering for a campus visit, you are agreeing to abide by the community standards and expectations related to COVID-19 safety guidelines 

Schedule your campus visit below now! 

FAQs

Application Deadlines: 

  • Early Action (Non-binding): Application due November 1; students notified by January 1. 
  • Final Deadline for First-Year Students: Application due March 1; students notified on a rolling, weekly basis. 
  • Transfer Student Deadline for Fall: Application due June 1. 
  • Spring Enrollment Applicants: Completed application, including supporting documents, due by November 1.  

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) offers a variety of scholarships to support undergraduate students. Here’s an overview of the available scholarships and the application process: 

Institutional Scholarships: 

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: First-year students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon application. Eligibility typically requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 unweighted. However, meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an award, as these scholarships are competitive.  
  • General Merit Awards: Available to first-year and transfer students with a minimum GPA of 3.0  
  • Institutional Undergraduate Studies Scholarship: Offered to continuing students based on academic performance and documented financial need. To be considered, students must complete the FAFSA by February 1, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and have a clear balance as of May 1. Priority is given to students who complete a minimum of 15 credit hours per semester.  
  • Sibling Discount: Provides a 33% reduction in tuition for biological or legally adopted dependent siblings currently enrolled at CAU. Families must submit necessary documentation by July 1.  
  • Ministerial Discount: Available to dependents of United Methodist Church ministers enrolled at CAU. Required documentation includes a letter from the conference indicating the minister is in good standing, submitted by July 1.  
  • Athletic Scholarships: Awarded through the Athletics Department to athletically talented men and women in all sports, based on specific qualifications and eligibility criteria established by the NCAA for Division II institutions.  

 

External Scholarships: 

CAU also provides access to external scholarship opportunities through its scholarship portal. Students can apply for various scholarships, including: 

  • TIAA First-Generation Scholarship Program: Offers up to $10,000 to first-generation undergraduate students.  
  • The Gallery Collection – $10,000 Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest: Provides a $10,000  
  • Executive Leadership Council (ELC) Scholarship: Supports students committed to leadership and excellence.  
  • Pearls Of Esther, Inc. – Esther Arising Scholarship: Available to students accepted or currently enrolled at CAU.  
  • United Methodist Higher Education Foundation (UMHEF): Offers scholarships to United Methodist students.  

Application Process: 

  1. Complete the General Application: Log in to the CAU scholarship portal using your CAU domain account and complete the general application.  
  1. Check Eligibility and Deadlines: Review each scholarship’s eligibility criteria and application deadlines to ensure timely and accurate submissions. 

For detailed information and to access the scholarship portal, visit the Clark Atlanta University (CAU) welcomes international students and offers a comprehensive admissions process tailored to their needs. Here’s an overview of the requirements and steps for international applicants: 

Application Requirements: 

  1. Application Form: Complete the Clark Atlanta University Application or the Common Application. A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required.  
  1. Academic Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all secondary schools and any post-secondary institutions attended. If transcripts are not in English, provide certified English translations.  

Additional Requirements for International Students: 

  • Financial Documentation: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs. This is necessary for the issuance of the I-20 form, which is required for the student visa application.  
  • Visa Documentation: Once admitted, international students must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and schedule an appointment with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for an F-1 student visa.  

Application Process: 

  1. Complete the Application: Fill out the application form and pay the application fee. 
  1. Submit Required Documents: Send all necessary documents, including transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and financial documentation. 
  1. Await Admission Decision: After reviewing your application, CAU will notify you of their decision. 
  1. Accept Offer and Pay Deposit: If accepted, confirm your intention to enroll and pay any required deposits. 
  1. Apply for Visa: Use the I-20 form provided by CAU to apply for an F-1 student visa. 
  1. Prepare for Arrival: Attend any orientation sessions and prepare for your studies at CAU. 

Your student ID and PIN should be listed on the acceptance letter that was mailed to you. If you’ve misplaced the letter or haven’t received it yet, I recommend checking the following: 

  1. Email: Check your inbox (and spam/junk folder) for any emails from the admissions office or student services that might contain your student ID and PIN. 
  1. Online Portal: Some schools allow students to log in to an online portal to retrieve important information like their student ID and PIN. Check the school’s website for any login links or resources. 
  1. Contact Admissions or Student Services: If you’re unable to find the letter or information online, you can always contact the admissions office or student services for assistance. They’ll be able to guide you on how to retrieve your student ID and PIN. 

6.What credits transfer over?  

After you’ve confirmed your intention to attend as a transfer student, the Center for Academic Student Success (CASS) department will review your academic transcripts to determine which of your credits will transfer. They will assess which courses align with your new school’s curriculum and how those credits can be applied to your degree program. 

Here’s a general idea of what might happen during this process: 

  1. Course Equivalency: The CASS department will match your previous coursework with equivalent courses at your new institution. They’ll assess factors like course content, credit hours, and the grading system to determine if the course is similar enough to be transferred. 
  1. General Education Requirements: Many schools will accept transfer credits for general education courses (like English, Math, History, etc.) as long as the course content aligns. 
  1. Major-Specific Courses: Some courses related to your major may transfer directly, but others may need to be evaluated more closely, especially if the curriculum differs significantly between schools. 
  1. Elective Credits: If a course doesn’t directly fit into your major or general education requirements, it might still transfer as an elective credit. 
  1. Grade Requirements: Be mindful that some schools may require a minimum grade (e.g., C or better) for the credits to transfer. 

After CASS completes the review, they’ll provide you with a transfer credit evaluation showing which credits have been accepted. If any credits don’t transfer, you can typically appeal or ask for further clarification.

To set up a campus tour, you can follow these steps: 

  1. Visit the Campus Tour Scheduling Page: Go to the link below to schedule your tour: Campus Tour Scheduling 
  1. Choose an Available Date: Once on the page, you will be able to view the available dates on the calendar. If a specific date is unavailable, it means that the tour slots for that day are already full, and you won’t be able to schedule for that date. 
  1. Select Your Preferred Time: After picking an available date, select your preferred time for the tour, and follow the instructions to complete your reservation. 
  1. Confirmation: After you’ve selected a date and time, you should receive a confirmation email with the details of your campus tour. 

Make sure to check for availability early to secure your preferred date and time.