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Information for parents and families
FAQs for parents and guardians
Welcome to Central State University. It is our pleasure to serve you and your child through their college experience. In four years, you will share another level of excitement as you participate in your child’s graduation activities. Central State University is committed to providing the best collegiate academic experience possible.
This Parents & Family Guide is designed to give you much of the information we share with students. We believe it is important for parents and guardians to have access to this important information, as well.
Key information regarding how you can support your child’s experience is listed below.
- Admissions FAQs
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and why it is important for parents
- Federal funding opportunities available to pay for college
- Tuition management systems and how they help manage college payments
- General cost to attend Central State as an in-state or out-of-state student
- Office contact information:
Financial documents submitted for applications are time-sensitive; that means that the earlier you comply with the requested dates, the more opportunities you will have available. Thousands of students apply for financial aid support annually, and the earlier you apply, the faster we can respond to your application. Early attention to this matter will enhance your student’s ability to obtain preferential housing, work-study (if applicable), state financial assistance, and in some cases, non-competitive financial support. You will benefit from completing all enrollment clearance processes before you arrive on campus.
Marauder Family Portal
Your Connection to Your Student’s Success Starts Here
At Central State University, we know that college is a journey — and your support plays a vital role in your student’s success. That’s why we’ve created the Marauder Family Portal, a one-stop resource designed just for families like yours.
Whether your student is just starting at CSU or continuing their college experience, the Marauder Family Portal helps you stay informed, involved, and empowered — every step of the way.
Why sign up?
When families are connected, students thrive. The Marauder Family Portal gives you access to the updates and tools you need to support your student’s academic journey and personal growth — even from miles away.
You’ll receive personalized news, deadline reminders, and campus insights that help you feel confident and informed about your student’s college experience.
What’s inside:
- Custom updates based on your interests
- Important deadlines for financial aid, housing, registration, and more
- Multilingual access to keep communication inclusive and clear
- Resources for academic support, career prep, and student life
- Event calendar to help you stay involved in your student’s world
By providing families with access to relevant, real-time information, we’re creating a stronger network of support around each student. This platform reflects our commitment to building a connected, informed, and empowered Marauder community.
Adrienne ByrdDirector of Strategic Programs and Retention
Designed for every Marauder family
Whether this is your first experience with college or your part of a proud CSU legacy, the Marauder Family Portal is built to support you. It’s simple, easy to use, and tailored to your family’s needs.
Ready to stay connected?
Join the growing number of Marauder families using the portal to stay involved and make a difference in their student’s college success.
— It’s free, quick, and helps you stay in the loop!
You’re always part of the CSU family
Being a Marauder means being part of something bigger — a supportive, driven, and proud community. With the Marauder Family Portal, we’re making it easier than ever to stay connected to your students and the CSU experience.
The program is sponsored by Central State's Office of First- and Second-Year Student Success (FSYSS).