1. Data Submission
A designated representative from each LCMS high school should upload a list of students during the data submission window, which is open from May 1st to October 1st (as early as possible is recommended). The file should:
- Follow this template, utilizing the same column headers and order. Please provide data for as many columns as possible, but leave columns blank if information is unavailable.
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Only include the incoming senior class
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Only include students who are currently maintaing a minimum 2.5 GPA (4.0 scale)
High Schools should provide students with the opportunity to opt out of the Direct Admit program and should only provide CUS with students who wish to participate.
During the data submission window, a link will be available on this page where data can be submitted securely.
2. Direct Admit
Assuming students meet the 2.5 GPA requirement, they will be automatically admitted to each participating Concordia university. Students will receive acceptance letters and instructions for next steps from the universities directly.
3. Post-Acceptance Form
After admission offers are sent, participating institutions will ask direct admit students to complete the Post-Acceptance form. The purpose of the form is to collect university specific information which will then allow institutions to provide financial aid awards. Completion of this form does not hold students to attending any or all of these institutions.
4. Commit
The remaining steps closely mirror the standard college admission process. After selecting the university they wish to attend, students can submit a tuition deposit to secure their place. The chosen university will then guide them through the rest of the enrollment process.
More Info
At any time in the process, students are encouraged to visit any of the Concordias or contact their Admission departments for more information.
Terms and Conditions
Students must have a current minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
The Concordia Universities reserve the right to rescind offers of admission for any reason, including but not limited to:
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Failure to maintain minimum GPA
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Prior conduct issues
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Failure to complete necessary follow-up actions, such as the Post-Acceptance Form
At this time, the CUS Direct Admit program is for students currently enrolled at an LCMS high school. Students who are alumni of LCMS high schools are not eligible for this opportunity. Anyone who is ineligible for the CUS Direct Admit program but desires to enroll at one of its institutions is encouraged to apply directly to any Concordia University.
General Program Information
Q: What is the Concordia University System (CUS) Direct Admit Program?
A: This pilot Direct Admit Program is a partnership between the Concordia University System and Lutheran High Schools designed to simplify and streamline the college admissions process. It expands college opportunities for students, especially those from mission aligned backgrounds. At its heart, the CUS desires to encourage all Lutheran high school students to consider furthering their education at a Lutheran university.
Q: Which Concordia universities participate in this program?
A: In this first year, recruiting students for the Fall of 2027, participating institutions include:
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Concordia University Chicago (River Forest, IL)
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Concordia University Nebraska (Seward, NE)
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Concordia University St. Paul (St. Paul, MN)
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Concordia University Wisconsin (Mequon, WI)
Q: Why is Concordia University Irvine not participating?
A: Although CU-Irvine is not participating in this pilot of the CUS-LHS Direct Admission program, they welcome all interested Lutheran High School seniors to seek admission through their standard process. For more information, visit
cui.edu or call (949) 214-3010.
Q: Is the admission binding?
A: No. The Direct Admit offer is non-binding. It guarantees you a spot at the university should you choose to attend, but you are free to apply to and attend other institutions.
Q: What is the benefit of LHS institutions participating in a Direct Admit with the CUS?
A: Within The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod we recognize the pivotal role school leaders and counselors play in shaping students’ futures. Our Direct Admission program is designed to honor your guidance and reward student achievement with a streamlined, guaranteed pathway to Lutheran higher education.
Q: What if I am an LCMS member but do not attend a Lutheran High School?
A: In its inaugural year, we are focused on creating a simplified and streamlined process from the Lutheran High Schools to the CUS institutions. For those LCMS members who are attending other high schools or are homeschooled, an online form is available and each CUS institution will reach out with the next steps.
Eligibility & Requirements
Q: Who is eligible for Direct Admission?
A: Lutheran High Schools will opt-in as participating institutions and provide student information of their upcoming high school seniors who meet specific academic benchmarks.
Q: What are the GPA requirements? A: While requirements may vary slightly by specific campus, students typically need a cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Q: Are standardized test scores (ACT/SAT) required?
A: Most Direct Admit pathways are test-optional. Admission is primarily based on your high school GPA. However, submitting scores may still be beneficial for course placement or specific scholarships.
Application & Scholarships
Q: How do I apply for Direct Admission?
A: At least for this pilot year, students cannot directly apply for this program. A representative from your LCMS high school must submit information. Please see the
process tab for more details.
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: For students whose information is being shared via their Lutheran high school guidance counselor, there is no application fee.
Q: Does Direct Admission guarantee a scholarship?
A: Each CUS Institution provides competitive academic scholarships based on the student’s high school achievements. In addition, participating students will receive full consideration of Lutheran aid opportunities within each individual CUS institution. Students are also encouraged to file the FAFSA to qualify for additional federal, state, and institutional aid.
Q: Can I still apply for other scholarships (music, athletics, church work)?
A: Absolutely. Your initial scholarship amount is a baseline. Additional talent scholarships, grants and outside scholarships can be added to your official financial aid award.
Next Steps
Q: I’ve been admitted. What do I do next?-
Visit Campus: Schedule a visit to see if the campus culture is right for you.
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File FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive your full financial aid package.
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Deposit: When you are ready to commit, submit your tuition deposit to secure your housing and class registration.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: You can contact the Admissions Office at any participating Concordia or speak with your Lutheran High School guidance counselor.
Concordia University Chicago
Concordia University Nebraska
Concordia University St. Paul
Concordia University Wisconsin