Overview
Ohio State University-Main Campus is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Columbus, Ohio. The school accepts 52.7% of applicants and enrolls 44,617 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 52.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,395
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,310–1,480
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 31
- Total Enrollment
- 44,617
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
Ohio State operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall when spots are most plentiful. The university processes applications as they arrive, and popular programs fill quickly.
Your essays should connect directly to Ohio State's specific strengths. Write about the Fisher College of Business co-op program if you're interested in business, or mention how the university's proximity to downtown Columbus creates internship opportunities in your field. Reference specific professors whose research aligns with your interests, particularly in engineering programs where faculty connections matter for research opportunities.
The Honors and Scholars programs require separate applications with additional essays due in November. These programs provide smaller learning communities within the large campus and access to priority course registration. Apply even if your stats feel borderline since the programs consider leadership and extracurricular involvement heavily.
Campus culture centers around Buckeye pride and football, but the size means you'll find your niche regardless of interests. Greek life claims about 15% of students, leaving plenty of other ways to get involved. The Student Activities Fair during orientation week showcases over 1,300 student organizations. Columbus offers internships, restaurants, and cultural events that many students access via the campus bus system.
Large lecture halls are common for introductory courses, but upper-level classes shrink considerably. Engineering and business students often form study groups early since these programs are competitive internally. The quarter system moves quickly with finals happening before winter break.
Submit all materials by the priority deadline in November to be considered for merit scholarships. Ohio residents get substantial tuition benefits, but out-of-state students can find value in specialized programs like aviation or veterinary medicine that few other schools offer at this level.
Your recommendations should come from teachers in your intended major area when possible. Admissions officers read thousands of applications, so make yours memorable by showing specific knowledge of what Ohio State offers beyond its reputation and size.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,292/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $12,859
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $38,365
- Students Receiving Aid
- 19%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 87.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $60,409/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 94.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ohio State University-Main Campus require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Ohio State has adopted a test-optional policy for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Ohio State University-Main Campus?
The priority application deadline for fall admission is February 1. Ohio State uses rolling admissions, so applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does Ohio State University-Main Campus offer early admission programs?
Ohio State offers Early Action with a November 1 deadline. This is non-binding and allows students to receive an admission decision earlier while still being able to compare financial aid offers from other schools.
How many credit hours can transfer students bring to Ohio State University-Main Campus?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credit hours toward their degree at Ohio State. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at Ohio State to earn a degree from the university.