Beginning in fall 2027, this new initiative creates a simplified, guaranteed pathway into Lutheran higher education.
For generations, Lutheran schools have partnered with families and congregations to form students in faith and learning. Now, that partnership is growing stronger.
The Concordia University System has announced a new direct admission pilot program for students attending Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod high schools. This marks the first phase of a systemwide direct admission initiative set to begin in fall 2027.
In this first year, participating Concordia institutions include:
- Concordia University Wisconsin (Mequon, Wisconsin)
- Concordia University Chicago (River Forest, Illinois)
- Concordia University Nebraska (Seward, Nebraska)
- Concordia University St. Paul (St. Paul, Minnesota)
Rev. Dr. Jamison Hardy, president of the CUS, emphasized the invitation behind the initiative:
“To all our LCMS high school students, I would like to say, ‘CUS universities are your universities. Direct admit is a great way for you to continue your studies at a university committed to the Lutheran confession of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.’”
At its heart, direct admission reflects a shared commitment among LCMS high schools and Concordia universities to make the transition to Lutheran higher education more accessible for students and families.
A shared commitment to Lutheran education
Within the LCMS, high school leaders, counselors and families help shape students’ futures. Direct admission affirms that partnership and the strong preparation students receive in LCMS schools.
For families of current freshmen, sophomores and juniors, this is the time to learn more. Explore the virtual campus tour. Contact a CUW admissions counselor to begin the conversation today.
Lutheran education has always been about more than earning a degree. It is about formation, vocation and community grounded in Christ. Through direct admission, Concordia universities extend a clear invitation to LCMS students: your next step in faith and learning awaits.
What is direct admission?
The CUS Direct Admission Program is a partnership between participating LCMS high schools and Concordia universities. The goal is straightforward: simplify the college admission process for students who have already been formed in Lutheran education.
Through this pilot, eligible students will receive a guaranteed offer of admission based primarily on their academic performance. There is no application fee for students whose information is shared by their Lutheran high school.
Admission is not binding. Students remain free to apply to and attend other colleges or universities. Direct admission ensures that a place at a participating Concordia campus is available should they choose to enroll.
Who is eligible?
LCMS high schools may opt in to participate in the program. Participating schools will share information for students who meet established academic benchmarks, including a cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or higher and graduation from a participating LCMS high school.
Most direct admit pathways are test-optional. Admission decisions are based primarily on high school GPA, though ACT or SAT scores may be submitted for course placement.
In this inaugural year, the focus is on LCMS high schools. LCMS students who attend other high schools or are homeschooled may complete an online form and will be contacted by participating campuses with next steps.
How the process works
The direct admission timeline is designed to reduce stress and remove unnecessary steps.
- Participating LCMS high schools will share student data with CUS institutions between May and November.
- Each Concordia university will review the information and send an admission decision directly to the student.
- Admitted students may accept their offer by completing an Admission Acceptance form and exploring majors, campus life, scholarships and financial aid.
- Final transcripts must be submitted at the end of senior year prior to enrollment.
Fall 2027 enrollment will mark the first full implementation of the pilot, following a measured rollout period.
Scholarships and financial aid
Direct admission guarantees admission, not a specific scholarship amount. Students will receive full consideration for:
- Academic scholarships based on high school achievement
- Lutheran aid opportunities at each institution
- Talent-based awards, including music and church work
- Federal, state and institutional aid through the FAFSA
Families are encouraged to file the FAFSA early to ensure a complete financial aid package.
“This initiative is a natural extension of the formation that begins in our partner high schools. These students have already been grounded in faith and learning, and we want to ensure there is a clear, guaranteed path for them to continue that vocation at the university level,” said Kevin Sheridan, interim vice president of admissions and financial aid. “It’s about honoring the commitment these families have already made to Lutheran education.”
Four frequently asked questions
No. 1: What if my student does not meet the GPA requirement?
Students who do not meet the direct admission threshold are encouraged to apply through the standard admission process at any Concordia university. Admissions teams review applications individually and are ready to assist families.
No. 2: Is there an application fee?
No. Students whose information is shared by their participating LCMS high school will not be charged an application fee.
No. 3: Does direct admission guarantee a spot in a specific major?
Admission is to the university. Some specialized programs may have additional requirements.
No. 4: What should we do after receiving an admission offer?
Students are encouraged to:
- Visit campus
- Connect with admissions counselors
- File the FAFSA
- Submit a tuition deposit when ready to commit
LCMS students in the spotlight
Read more about current students and why they attend CUW.
- NLSW Spotlight: Jadon Lewis, Living Word Lutheran
- NLSW Spotlight: Jadin Bagley, Martin Luther
- NLSW Spotlight: Margaret Herbrich, New Lutheran
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.
For additional information, families may contact the admissions office at any participating campus:
- Concordia University Wisconsin: Leah Toerpe, 262-243-4415, Leah.Toerpe@cuw.edu
- Concordia University Chicago: Kyle Thoms, 708-209-3044, Kyle.Thoms@cuchicago.edu
- Concordia University Nebraska: Aaron Roberts, 402-643-7233, Aaron.Roberts@cune.edu
- Concordia University St. Paul: Kristin Vogel, 651-641-8839, vogel@csp.edu
Click here for a complete list of current undergrad programs.