Background Checks

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKING & FINGERPRINTING 
College Advising Office (ESSC) 
Julka Hall JH 170, 
Monday-Friday, 9:00-4:30; hours are subject change 
Phone: 216-687-4625Fax: 216-687-9284
Email: coe.advising@csuohio.edu 

Who Needs Fingerprints? 

Field Placement Candidates 

Prior to any field placement, students are required to provide a valid BCI & FBI background checks to the Office of Field Services (JH 187). Background checks are valid for one year from date of issuance.  Background checks need to be renewed at least 6 weeks before the expiration date. An expired background check will result in a removal from the field until the new checks have been received. All students should request a copy of the background checks for their own professional records. This can be obtained in person from the ESSC after checks have been completed. 

First Ohio Licensure 

When an individual submits an application for his/her first license, certificate or permit issued by the Ohio Department of Education, a BCI and FBI background check report, completed within 365 days of the date the application is received, must be on file at the Department of Education. 

Renewals and Additional Licenses 

If you have lived continuously in Ohio for the past 5 years, an FBI background check is required if the report on file with ODE is more than 5 years old at the date the application is received. A BCI background check is required if you do not have one on file with ODE. 
If you have NOT lived continuously in Ohio for the past 5 years, both the BCI and FBI background checks are required if the reports on file with ODE are more than 5 years old on the date the application is received. 

Fingerprinting Procedure 

All background checks at Cleveland State University are processed through the Office of Field Services located at Julka Hall, Room 187. Please visit their website for more information. 

Need payment and ID to be fingerprinted. 

  • ID can be Driver's license or State of Ohio ID 

  • Cost is $30.00 each or $60.00 for both FBI & BCI.  


STEP 1: Submitting payment

Paying by Cash or Check

  • Pay at Cashier's Office (BH 115)
  • Take receipts to ESSC

Paying by Credit Card

  • Pay at the ESSC (JH 170)

Payment by Dept Group Billing

STEP 2: Education Advising Office

  • Bring cashier's receipt and driver's license or State of Ohio ID.
  • Complete electronic fingerprinting.
  • Results are available within 2-4 weeks.