UNITED STATES
Case Western Reserve University
private · Founded 1826 · Languages: en
In short
Case Western Reserve University is a private research university in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 1826. It is known for its strong programs in medicine, engineering, law, and management, with a significant number of Nobel Laureates among its faculty and alumni.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1826
- Students
- 12,398
- International students
- 1,369
- Acceptance rate
- 27%
- Tuition (intl)
- €61–61k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- United States
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a private research university in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, founded in 1826 and federated in its current form in 1967. It enrolls approximately 12,400 students and is renowned for research excellence in medicine, engineering, law, and management — with 16 Nobel Laureates among alumni and faculty. Located in Cleveland's vibrant University Circle neighborhood, CWRU offers over 100 undergraduate majors and 160 graduate/professional programs, with 99% of undergraduates participating in experiential learning through research, co-ops, or internships.
Why study here
- Top research university with 16 Nobel Laureates and a track record of landmark scientific discoveries.
- 99% of undergraduates engage in research, internships, or co-ops — building career-ready skills from year one.
- Access to the 50,000 sq ft Sears think[box] innovation center and cutting-edge research facilities.
- University Circle location provides immediate access to world-class cultural institutions and major hospitals.
- Diverse student body from 111+ countries with dedicated international student support and generous merit aid.
Student life
Case Western Reserve University offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience with over 550 student organizations catering to diverse interests, from sci-fi to social justice. The campus is located in University Circle, providing easy access to world-class arts and cultural institutions, museums, and green spaces. Students can engage in 19 D-III varsity athletics teams or numerous club sports. The university's residential housing emphasizes community, with a two-year residency requirement for rising second-year students. Resources like the Sears think[box] foster an entrepreneurial spirit, while the Maltz Performing Arts Center provides a hub for music, theater, and dance. Students also have access to various support services including housing, laundry facilities, and a dedicated international student resources team to help with transition and engagement.
Fees
InternationalApprox. USD 71,410 per year in tuition (approx. EUR 63,000); housing USD 11,688; meal plan USD 8,600; fees USD 696.
HomeDomestic students pay the same tuition rate; need-based aid and merit scholarships are widely available.
LivingHousing: $11,688 (residential student), $3,824 (commuter student); Meal Plan: $8,600 (residential student), $1,124 (commuter student); Books: $1,200; Personal Expenses: $1,350; Transportation: variable.
All fees are reviewed annually. 100% of demonstrated financial need is met for admitted domestic students. International students seeking aid must complete the CSS Profile.
Admissions
First-year and Transfer StudentsAutomatically evaluated for several scholarships upon application.
Law JD Program Priority DeadlineMarch 1
Law LLM and SJD Programs DeadlineApril 1
Law Master's ProgramsRolling admissions
Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP) startJuly each year
TOEFL (internet-based)Minimum 90 for full admission; 75-89 may qualify for AEP Program (currently paused)
IELTSMinimum 7.0 for full admission; 6.0-6.5 may qualify for AEP Program (currently paused)
Rankings
QS World University Rankings294
U.S. News & World Report — National UniversitiesTop 50 (approx. 42nd)
Nature Index — Innovation18th worldwide
TIME — Student SuccessTop 25 U.S. universities
U.S. News & World Report — Law13th in International Law
University scholarships
Merit ScholarshipsVaries — automatically evaluated for all first-year and transfer applicants
Need-Based Financial AidVaries — 100% of demonstrated need met for domestic admitted students; CSS Profile required for international applicants
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Professional programs accredited by AACSB (Weatherhead), ABA (Law), LCME (Medicine), and ABET (Engineering).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionCase Western Reserve University · United States
Business/Biochemistry (MBA/MS)
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science (MS) in Biochemistry is a three-year dual-degree program offered jointly by Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management and the School of Medicine. This program is designed for students interested in the intersection of medical research and business management, preparing them for leadership roles in the evolving healthcare industry. Students will develop core business skills alongside advanced biochemical expertise, gaining a unique interdisciplinary perspective to drive positive change in organizations.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Case Western Reserve University · United States
LLM Programs for Internationally Educated Students
Case Western Reserve University School of Law offers a highly regarded LLM program designed specifically for students who have completed their legal education outside the United States. Ranked among the top LLM degrees in the U.S. by International Jurist, this program provides a strong foundation for advancing your career in law, business, or government service. It also offers comprehensive preparation for the U.S. Bar Exam. Students can choose from four distinct LLM specializations, along with an optional Summer Language and Law Institute to enhance English legal proficiency before starting their degree. The program is tailored to equip international students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the U.S. legal system and thrive in a global legal environment.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Case Western Reserve University · United States
Master of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Case Western Reserve University's Weatherhead School of Management equips you with essential skills for roles in public accounting, corporations, and non-profit organizations. This program emphasizes durable skills in a landscape shaped by technology and evolving regulations. You'll learn the 'language of business' and how organizations use accounting to communicate performance, justify decisions, and build trust. The MAcc offers two tracks: a two-semester (30 credit hours) option for quick career launch, focusing on accounting expertise and professional judgment, or a STEM-designated track (39 credit hours) for in-demand skills in analytics, technology, and data-driven decision-making. Both paths prepare you with comprehensive knowledge, practical experience, and confidence for a competitive market. The program can be completed in as little as nine months or extended to accommodate working professionals, allowing for internships or continued employment.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
9 mo
Duration
Case Western Reserve University · United States
Master of Finance (MFin)
The Master of Finance (MFin) program at Case Western Reserve University's Weatherhead School of Management is designed for students who enjoy problem-solving, working with numbers, and understanding how organizations and markets operate. This program prepares you to become a leader capable of making critical financial decisions, moving beyond theoretical analysis to practical application. The curriculum emphasizes the real-world use of core financial concepts, helping you develop capabilities employers rely on. Students can choose between a 9-month accelerated track or a 15-month professional track, both offering a STEM designation and OPT eligibility for international students. The program aims to equip you with the skills to understand business valuation, identify risks, connect financial analysis with strategy, build effective decision-making models, and clearly communicate financial insights to executives. You will also complete a professionalism and communication core, enhancing your ability to leverage your financial knowledge in your career.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
9 mo
Duration
Case Western Reserve University · United States
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a highly selective, three-year conservatory program offered in collaboration with the Tony Award-winning Cleveland Play House (CPH). This program is designed for dedicated actors seeking intensive training and professional experience. You'll gain rigorous conservatory training in acting, voice, speech, movement, period styles, and stage combat, taught by CWRU faculty, CPH resident artists, and guest artists. The small class size, admitting only eight students every other year, allows for a tailored curriculum to meet individual training needs. Students benefit from invaluable professional experience, including mainstage and understudy opportunities with Cleveland Play House. The program culminates in a third-year residency at CPH, where you will perform and understudy in their mainstage season. Additionally, you will participate in a New York City Showcase for industry professionals and gain membership in Actors' Equity Association upon successful completion, preparing you for a sustained career in the performing arts.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Case Western Reserve University · United States
Master of Law
The Master of Law (ML) program at Case Western Reserve University School of Law is a flexible 30-credit-hour degree designed for individuals seeking U.S. legal training without pursuing a full Juris Doctor (JD) degree or aiming to become a practicing attorney. It is suitable for U.S. or foreign-trained undergraduate or graduate students who do not hold an initial law degree. This program is ideal for those interested in working in law-related fields, needing legal training as part of a dual graduate degree, or wishing to strengthen their credentials before applying to JD programs. There is no entry exam required for admission to the ML program, and graduates do not take the Bar Exam.
Master's
Level
€26k
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated annual costs for international students at Case Western Reserve University?
+
International students should budget approximately USD 71,410 for tuition, USD 11,688 for housing, and USD 8,600 for a meal plan. Additional fees and living expenses should also be considered.
Does Case Western Reserve University offer financial aid or scholarships for international students?
+
International students seeking aid must complete the CSS Profile. While the university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted domestic students, information on aid availability specifically for international students is not detailed, though merit aid is mentioned as widely available.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants generally need a minimum TOEFL score of 90 (internet-based) or an IELTS score of 7.0 for full admission. Scores between 75-89 for TOEFL or 6.0-6.5 for IELTS may qualify for a specific program if available.
What is Case Western Reserve University known for academically?
+
Case Western Reserve University is renowned for research excellence, particularly in medicine, engineering, law, and management. It boasts 16 Nobel Laureates among its alumni and faculty.
What kind of experiential learning opportunities are available at CWRU?
+
CWRU emphasizes experiential learning, with 99% of undergraduates participating in research, co-ops, or internships. Students also have access to the innovation center, Sears think[box], and cutting-edge research facilities.
Last updated