Concordia University, St. Paul has announced a new Direct Admission Program guaranteeing admission to all graduates of Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) high schools into any of CSP’s undergraduate programs, both on campus and online, effective immediately for Fall 2026 enrollment.
This initiative strengthens the Lutheran education pipeline by removing unnecessary barriers to admission and affirming CSP’s confidence in the academic preparation and faith formation provided by LCMS secondary schools. It reflects the university’s commitment to walking alongside LCMS families, congregations, and schools as students continue their academic and vocational journeys.
“LCMS high school students are already being shaped by a rich tradition of Christian education,” says Rev. Dr. Mark Koschmann, vice president for Faith and Ministry at Concordia University, St. Paul. “At CSP, we are honored to welcome these graduates through direct admission into all of our undergraduate programs. This pathway reflects our shared mission and our confidence in the preparation LCMS students receive, as we continue to nurture faith, curiosity, and a sense of vocation for the sake of Christ and His Church.”
The Direct Admission Program builds on Concordia St. Paul’s history of mission-driven innovation designed to expand access, affordability, and opportunity within Lutheran higher education.
“During National Lutheran Schools Week 2026, it is a thrill to announce CSP’s offer of direct admission to all students graduating from our LCMS high schools. We cherish our partnerships with Lutheran high schools across the country and know how well prepared their graduates are for post-secondary education. Lutheran high schools are led by dedicated administrators and dynamic educators who equip their students in every aspect of life: mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional. We believe this new commitment will enable and encourage even more students to achieve their goal of an excellent, Christ-centered Lutheran higher education at CSP.”
-Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, President