Overview
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus is a less selective public four-year institution in Bowling Green, Ohio. The school accepts 78.7% of applicants and enrolls 12,255 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 78.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,095
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 990–1,200
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 23
- Total Enrollment
- 12,255
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
You can apply to Bowling Green State University through the Common Application or directly through the university's website with a rolling admissions process that continues until the class fills. The priority deadline for fall admission is February 1, which gives you the best chance for housing placement and financial aid consideration, though applications are accepted well beyond this date.
Submit your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and either SAT or ACT scores. The application fee is $45, though fee waivers are available for eligible students. Your personal statement should focus on your academic goals and why BGSU fits your plans.
Several programs require separate applications or have higher admission standards. The College of Business requires a 3.0 GPA for direct admission to most majors, while competitive programs like aviation, architecture, and some education specializations have additional requirements. The honors program requires a separate application with higher academic credentials.
Housing applications open in November for the following fall, and you should apply early since popular residence halls fill quickly. First-year students must live on campus unless they live within 25 miles of the university or meet specific exemption criteria.
BGSU operates on a semester system and requires orientation attendance before your first semester. You can register for orientation once you submit your enrollment deposit. The university offers extensive support services, including academic coaching and career services, which become particularly valuable given the strong alumni network in Ohio and the Midwest.
The Bowling Green campus sits in a traditional college town where university life dominates the community. Winter weather can be harsh, so prepare for snow and cold temperatures that last from December through March.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $20,918/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $14,081
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $22,070
- Students Receiving Aid
- 23%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 62.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $47,896/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 79.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bowling Green State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Bowling Green State University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Bowling Green State University?
Bowling Green State University has rolling admissions with a priority deadline of February 1st for fall semester. Applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does Bowling Green State University offer early admission programs?
Bowling Green State University does not offer Early Decision or Early Action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, so students receive decisions within a few weeks of completing their application.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Bowling Green State University?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credit hours to Bowling Green State University. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at BGSU to earn a degree from the university.