| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 23, 2020 |
| Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000725363 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 23, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CEL SCI CORP |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | CO |
| Entity File Number | 001-11889 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 84-0916344 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 8229 Boone Blvd. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | #802 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Vienna |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 22182 |
| City Area Code | 703 |
| Local Phone Number | 506-9460 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | CVM |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
