BGSU is one of the more predictable schools in the Midwest when it comes to money. Almost every admitted freshman on the main campus gets automatic merit, out-of-state students get a big chunk of the non-resident fee knocked off, and families in 28 Indiana counties and 3 Michigan counties can pay Ohio prices. The big full-tuition awards live in the Honors College and the President’s Leadership Academy, and those run on their own, much earlier deadlines.
GPA 3.0+; ACT 20+ / SAT 1040+ if submitting scores
Entry-level benchmarks for automatic merit.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Feb 18 • FAFSA: Feb 18
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Presidential Scholars Award (PSA) & Sidney A. Ribeau President's Leadership Academy (PLA)
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Residency & Waivers
Ohio-Indiana county reciprocity (28 counties)
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at BGSU (Read This First)
February 18 is the real deadline. Merit credentials, the general scholarship application and FAFSA priority all land on the same day. Miss it and you give up the highest merit consideration.
The full-tuition money is due November 15. The Presidential Scholars Award and Alumni Laureate Scholarship require a separate Honors College application with test scores by mid-November, months before the merit deadline. The President’s Leadership Academy is due December 9.
Going test-optional is a real decision. If your student applies test-optional, BGSU will not use their scores for admission or most scholarships, even if the scores show up on a transcript. The full-tuition Honors awards require scores on file.
Declare a major if you can. Students with a declared major get a second, college-specific scholarship application in AcademicWorks. Undecided students never see it.
Check your county if you live in Indiana or Michigan. 28 Indiana counties get in-state tuition automatically, and 3 Michigan counties get the full non-resident fee covered. Plenty of eligible families never realize it.
Firelands Pathway is a different deal. Students admitted through the Firelands Pathway are not eligible for main-campus merit, BG Success, the Michigan award or Thompson.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes, for admission. Bowling Green State University is test-optional for admission.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 19–26; SAT: 1000–1210.
Average net price? About $24,283/year after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes. It participates in Ohio-Indiana county reciprocity (28 counties).
💰 Cost of Attendance at Bowling Green State University: 2026–2027 Rates
Figures verified against official sources in September 2026.
📅 Planning for 2027–2028? These are the 2026–2027 rates, the newest Bowling Green State University has published. Colleges usually release next year's costs in the spring, and we update this page when they do.
Budgeting tip: costs typically rise 2% to 5% a year. For 2027–2028, plan on roughly
$600 to $1,400 more than the in-state total below.$700 to $1,800 more than the out-of-state total below.
In-State: billed cost per year
$28,949
Tuition, fees, housing, and meals for two semesters
Tuition & mandatory fees
$14,773
Housing & meals (typical)
$14,176
Total billed cost
$28,949
Out-of-State: billed cost per year
$36,937
Tuition, fees, housing, and meals for two semesters
Tuition & mandatory fees
$22,761
Housing & meals (typical)
$14,176
Total billed cost
$36,937
That is $7,988 more per year than Ohio residents pay, before any waivers or scholarships.
Average federal net price: $24,283 per year.
This is what first-time, full-time students who received grant aid paid after grants and scholarships, for in-state students only, based on the most recent federal data. It counts books and living costs, so it can run higher than the billed total above. Families who got no grants are not in this average, so many middle-income families pay more. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Out-of-state families: this average does not include you. Run the college's own net price calculator for a number based on your situation.
📌 Regional Tuition & Waiver Options
Indiana (28 counties): BGSU automatically waives the non-resident fee for full-time residents of Adams, Allen, Blackford, Clark, Dearborn, Decatur, DeKalb, Delaware, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Harrison, Henry, Jay, Jefferson, Jennings, Noble, Ohio, Randolph, Ripley, Rush, Scott, Steuben, Switzerland, Union, Washington, Wayne and Wells counties. No application and no deadline. If you are admitted, you pay in-state tuition for all four years.
Michigan (3 counties): The Michigan Out-of-State Scholarship covers the full non-resident fee for residents of Monroe, Lenawee and Wayne counties with a 3.0 GPA, 20 ACT or 1040 SAT. Apply for admission by February 18.
Everyone else out of state: The BG Success Scholarship covers half of the non-resident fee for students who meet any one of those same three marks.
🔒 The Falcon Tuition Guarantee: The Price Won’t Creep Up
Here’s something most schools don’t do. When your student starts at BGSU as a new four-year student, their tuition, fees, on-campus housing, meal plan and out-of-state surcharge are locked at that year’s rate for up to four academic years. The number you plan around as a freshman is the number you pay as a senior. That makes BGSU unusually easy to budget for.
FAQ: Cost of Attendance at Bowling Green State University
How much does BGSU cost per year?
For the class starting in fall 2026, the bill (tuition, fees, housing and food) runs about $28,949 a year for Ohio residents and $36,937 for out-of-state students. BGSU’s full federal cost of attendance, which adds books, transportation and personal costs, is $33,900 in-state and $41,890 out-of-state for students living on campus.
What is the Falcon Tuition Guarantee?
It locks tuition, fees, housing, meals and the out-of-state surcharge at your student’s starting rate for up to four academic years. Your rate is tied to the semester your student first enrolls, which BGSU calls a cohort.
Can Indiana students get in-state tuition at BGSU?
Yes, if you live in one of 28 Indiana counties: Adams, Allen, Blackford, Clark, Dearborn, Decatur, DeKalb, Delaware, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Harrison, Henry, Jay, Jefferson, Jennings, Noble, Ohio, Randolph, Ripley, Rush, Scott, Steuben, Switzerland, Union, Washington, Wayne and Wells. There’s no application and no deadline. Get admitted and you pay in-state tuition for all four years.
What about Michigan students?
Residents of Monroe, Lenawee and Wayne counties can have the entire non-resident fee covered by the Michigan Out-of-State Scholarship with a 3.0 GPA, 20 ACT or 1040 SAT. Everyone else out of state can get half the non-resident fee covered through the BG Success Scholarship with those same marks.
Why is the average net price $24,283 when merit is so common?
That federal number (2023-24) includes the full cost of attendance, not just the bill, and it only counts in-state students who received grant aid. It also varies a lot by income, from about $18,396 for families earning under $30,000 to about $27,414 for families earning over $110,000. Your own number depends on merit, need and whether you live on campus.
How much are housing and meal plans?
Residence hall rates for 2026-27 run roughly $3,380 to $4,700 per semester for a standard double or single, depending on the hall. Meal plans run $2,232 (Bronze), $2,617 (Silver) or $3,007 (Gold). The cost of attendance uses a federal average of $8,160 for housing and $6,016 for food per year.
Does BGSU require the CSS Profile?
No. BGSU only uses the FAFSA (school code 003018). The priority FAFSA deadline for incoming freshmen is February 18.
October 1: FAFSA and the BGSU general scholarship application open.
November 15: Honors College application due for the Presidential Scholars and Alumni Laureate awards.
December 9: President’s Leadership Academy application due.
February 18: Merit credentials, the general scholarship application, the Thompson application and FAFSA priority.
Mid to late March: Financial aid offers start arriving for incoming freshmen.
Parent rule of thumb: if your student is even a maybe for Honors, treat November 15 as your real deadline.
Automatic Merit Scholarships: Bowling Green State University
Automatic merit at BGSU comes straight from the admission application. There’s no essay and no interview. Apply and get every credential in by February 18 for the highest consideration. On test scores, BGSU says it superscores, but its own counselor FAQ also describes using the best single test date. The safe move is to send every score that helps.
Find your student's tier
Enter the numbers you have. We'll highlight the automatic award your student would actually get and tuck the rest out of the way. Leave it blank to browse everything.
Residency
Based on published cutoffs for entering freshmen. Always verify with the college before finalizing plans.
Start with your state. The awards in this first group come from the state, not the college. They are decided by residency and the FAFSA, and they stack on top of whatever automatic merit award the college gives below. If you live out of state, use the toggle above and these will step aside.
State AidApp Requiredstate residency
Ohio Governor's Merit Scholarship
📅 Deadline: School nomination by Oct 1; student must accept by May 15 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Top 5% of the graduating class at an Ohio public or chartered nonpublic high school, ranked by GPA at the end of junior year; nominated by the school by Oct 1; must accept in the state portal by May 15 or it is rescinded; Ohio colleges only
✚
Stacking & Combining
Up to $5,000 a year for four years, and it can be applied to any cost up to the college's cost of attendance, not just tuition. Stacks with every college award. Renews automatically at a 3.0 GPA with 20 credits a year. Enrolling out of state forfeits it for good.
💡
Strategic Detail
State program, not a Bowling Green State University award. Rules and amounts are set by the state and can change with each budget. Full details on the CollegeReadyParent OH page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top-5% seniors whose school submitted the nomination and who then logged into the portal and clicked accept by May 15. The May 15 step is where awards die: it is a separate action from the college deposit, and students who are still deciding between schools sometimes let it lapse.
State AidAutomaticstate residencyneed based
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
📅 Deadline: FAFSA by the college's priority date; state cutoff Oct 1 ✓ Renews (5 yrs)
$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Ohio resident; FAFSA Student Aid Index of 3,750 or less AND household income of $96,000 or less; main campus of a public university; tuition and general fees only
✚
Stacking & Combining
$4,000 a year at a public main campus for low-income Ohio families, prorated for part time. Pays tuition and general fees only, and a student whose tuition is already fully covered by other tuition-specific aid gets nothing. Stacks with Pell and with college awards that cover housing or other costs. Ten-semester lifetime cap.
💡
Strategic Detail
State program, not a Bowling Green State University award. Rules and amounts are set by the state and can change with each budget. Full details on the CollegeReadyParent OH page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Families under $96,000 with a low Student Aid Index. The one that surprises people is the tuition-only rule: a student with a full-tuition merit award from the college loses OCOG entirely, because there is no tuition left for it to pay.
State AidApp Requiredstate residencyservice
Ohio War Orphans and Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Application by May 15 for the following year ✓ Renews (5 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
Child of an Ohio veteran who died in service or has a service-connected disability rating of 60% or more; apply between ages 16 and 24; Ohio public colleges
✚
Stacking & Combining
For 2026-27 the board set it at 77% of tuition and general fees at an Ohio public college. Stacks with Pell and college aid; cannot be combined with Choose Ohio First or the Second Chance Grant.
💡
Strategic Detail
State program, not a Bowling Green State University award. Rules and amounts are set by the state and can change with each budget. Full details on the CollegeReadyParent OH page.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Children of veterans with a 60%-plus VA rating who apply during the May-to-May window before the age cutoff. The age limit is the trap: it is an application-age limit, not an enrollment-age limit, so a 24-year-old who waits loses it.
One award, not a pile. Colleges apply your student's single best automatic award. Automatic scholarships almost never stack with each other, though some stack with housing, departmental, or outside money. The stacking notes on each card tell you which.
Automatic
University Freshman Academic Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 18 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$9,500/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with the BG Success or Michigan Out-of-State award, which only cover the non-resident fee. Counts toward the BGSU half of the Thompson Working Families Scholarship. A portion may be re-labeled as a donor scholarship without changing the total.
💡
Strategic Detail
Awarded automatically after admission based on a comprehensive review of the application. No essay, recommendation letter or interview. Apply for admission and have all credentials (including official ACT or SAT scores, if submitting) in by February 18 for the highest consideration. BGSU does not publish a GPA or test score grid. Restricted to students pursuing a program on the main Bowling Green campus; Firelands Pathway students are not eligible. Renews each year with full-time enrollment (12 credit hours), a 3.0 cumulative GPA, and 30, 60 and 90 earned credit hours by the end of years one, two and three.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Nearly every admitted freshman on the main campus gets some version of this award, from $1,000 up to $9,500 a year. Because BGSU does not publish a grid, the best move is simple: apply early, get every credential in by February 18, and send test scores if they help your student's profile.
Automatic
BG Success Scholarship (Nonresident)
📅 Deadline: February 18 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~20 ACT✎ ~1040 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Applies only to the non-resident fee that is not already covered by another program or award. Combines with the University Freshman Academic Scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers half of BGSU's non-resident fee for full-time students who are not Ohio residents. Qualify with any one of these: a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA, a 20 ACT composite, or a 1040 SAT. Based on the admission application alone, with no separate application. Apply for admission by February 18. Firelands Pathway students are not eligible. Renewable if all criteria are met.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Almost any solid out-of-state student. You only need to hit one of three marks (3.0 GPA, 20 ACT or 1040 SAT), and there is nothing extra to fill out. At 2026-27 rates that is roughly $4,000 a year off the non-resident fee.
Automatic
Michigan Out-of-State Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 18 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~20 ACT✎ ~1040 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Applies only to the non-resident fee. Combines with the University Freshman Academic Scholarship.
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers all of BGSU's non-resident fee for full-time residents of Monroe, Lenawee and Wayne counties in Michigan. Qualify with any one of these: a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA, a 20 ACT composite, or a 1040 SAT. No separate application. Apply for admission by February 18. Firelands Pathway students are not eligible. Renewable if all criteria are met.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students from Monroe, Lenawee or Wayne County, Michigan who hit a 3.0 GPA, 20 ACT or 1040 SAT. They pay the same tuition as an Ohio family, automatically.
Automatic
International Freshman Academic Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$8,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with the International BG Success Scholarship, for up to $12,000 a year in automatic aid.
💡
Strategic Detail
Tiered automatic award for new international first-year students starting fall or spring. Four tiers: $1,000 (GPA 3.0–3.19, SAT 1050/ACT 21, TOEFL 71–80); $3,000 (GPA 3.20–3.49, SAT 1160/ACT 25, TOEFL 81–90); $5,000 (GPA 3.5–3.69, SAT 1260/ACT 28, TOEFL 91–100); $8,000 (GPA 3.7–4.0, SAT 1380/ACT 31, TOEFL 101+). Renewable for 4 years with a 3.0 GPA. Can stack with the International BG Success Scholarship.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
New international first-year students coming straight from high school. The award is tiered by GPA plus English proficiency or test scores, from $1,000 a year (3.0 GPA, TOEFL 71) up to $8,000 a year (3.7 GPA or higher with TOEFL 101, ACT 31 or SAT 1380). No separate application.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
International BG Success Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$4,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with the International Freshman Academic Scholarship for total automatic aid of up to $12,000/yr.
💡
Strategic Detail
Flat $4,000 per year automatic award available to all international freshman and transfer students starting fall or spring semester with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Renewable for 4 years with continued 3.0 GPA maintenance. Stacks with the International Freshman Academic Scholarship (for freshmen) for potentially substantial total automatic merit aid.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Every international freshman or transfer student starting in fall or spring with at least a 3.0 GPA. It is a flat $4,000 a year for four years, and no test score is needed for this one.
Data last verified Sep 26, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: BGSU does not publish an award grid for the University Freshman Academic Scholarship. Consideration starts at a 3.0 GPA plus a 20 ACT or 1040 SAT, or a 3.0 GPA alone for test-optional applicants. The out-of-state awards (BG Success and Michigan) only cover the non-resident fee, so they combine with the freshman academic award instead of replacing it.
Automatic Merit FAQs (Bowling Green State University)
How much is the University Freshman Academic Scholarship?
It ranges from $1,000 to $9,500 a year and renews for four years. The amount comes from a review of your student’s whole application. BGSU doesn’t publish the exact cutoffs.
What do you need to qualify for merit at BGSU?
Consideration starts at a 3.0 cumulative GPA with a 20 ACT or 1040 SAT. Test-optional applicants are considered on GPA alone, starting at 3.0. Awards are limited to students on the main Bowling Green campus.
Should my student submit test scores?
If the scores help, yes. BGSU superscores, and scores open doors to the full-tuition Honors awards. But once a student applies test-optional, BGSU won’t use their scores for admission or most scholarships, even if they appear on a transcript. Decide before you hit submit.
What is the BG Success Scholarship?
It covers half of the non-resident fee for full-time students from outside Ohio, which is roughly $4,000 a year at 2026-27 rates. Your student needs just one of these: a 3.0 GPA, a 20 ACT or a 1040 SAT. No separate application.
What is the Michigan Out-of-State Scholarship?
Students from Monroe, Lenawee or Wayne County, Michigan, with a 3.0 GPA, 20 ACT or 1040 SAT get the entire non-resident fee covered. In practice they pay the same tuition as an Ohio family.
Can international students get automatic merit?
Yes. The International BG Success Scholarship is a flat $4,000 a year with a 3.0 GPA. The International Freshman Academic Scholarship adds $1,000 to $8,000 a year based on GPA and English proficiency or test scores. They combine, for up to $12,000 a year.
How do students keep their merit scholarship?
Stay full-time, keep a 3.0 cumulative GPA, and have 30, 60 and 90 credit hours finished by the end of years one, two and three. Renewal is reviewed at the end of each spring. There’s nothing to reapply for.
BGSU’s competitive money splits into two lanes. The President’s Leadership Academy is a full in-state tuition award for student leaders, with its own application, interview and summer program. The Thompson Working Families Scholarship is BGSU’s big need-based award, and it goes to a lot of students. The full-tuition academic awards (Presidential Scholars and Alumni Laureate) run through the Honors College, covered in that section below.
✅ Can You Stack Scholarships at BGSU?
Aid Type
Stacks with Merit?
BGSU Parent Translation
BG Success / Michigan award
Yes
These only touch the non-resident fee, so they sit on top of the freshman academic award.
Thompson Working Families
Partly
BGSU’s half of Thompson can be your student’s merit award, so the total is capped rather than added on top.
President’s Leadership Academy
Covers tuition
Pays in-state tuition and fees. Out-of-state scholars can still use BG Success toward the non-resident fee. Room and board are on you.
Honors full-tuition awards (PSA, ALS)
Replaces
These cover in-state tuition outright, so there’s nothing left for merit to stack against on the tuition line.
Department and AcademicWorks awards
Usually
These are the gap fillers for housing, meals and fees. Always read the award letter.
Full TuitionApp Required
Sidney A. Ribeau President's Leadership Academy (PLA)
📅 Deadline: December 9 ✓ Renews (2.75 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state instructional and general fees
✔ Stackable
Graduating high school seniors only. Must be admitted to BGSU before applying.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers in-state instructional and general fees only. Out-of-state scholars still owe the non-resident fee, which the BG Success Scholarship can offset. Room and board are not covered.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for BGSU admission; submit the PLA application with essays and activity list via AcademicWorks; selected finalists are invited to interview on campus.
Selection criteria: Leadership, community service, academic merit, essays, interview
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers up to the cost of in-state instructional and general fees for up to eight consecutive fall and spring semesters, paid directly to university charges. Applicants must be admitted to BGSU before the December 9 deadline. The application includes two leadership essays, an activities list and a FAFSA on file. Selected candidates interview on campus (about five hours) on January 23 or 24, 2027, and final offers go out by late March. Scholars must complete the PLA Summer Program (early July to early August before freshman year), take required first-year courses, attend regular meetings, complete 10 service hours per semester and keep a 2.75 cumulative GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High school seniors with a real leadership and service track record who want a structured four-year program. The essays earn the interview, and the interview day decides it. Families should know this is a commitment, not just a check: summer program, regular meetings, service hours and a 2.75 GPA every year.
App Required
Thompson Working Families Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 18 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$11,000–$12,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.8+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
The BGSU match may be your University Freshman Academic Scholarship. If that scholarship is larger than the match, the Thompson award is reduced, so the total is capped rather than added on top.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for fall admission, submit the FAFSA, and complete the Thompson Working Families Scholarship application in AcademicWorks by February 19. Community service in high school is required.
Selection criteria: Financial need, academic standing (2.75 GPA min), community service record
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based award for students from working families. BGSU's financial aid page (updated September 2026) lists $6,000 from the Thompson Foundation plus a $6,000 BGSU match, or $12,000 a year, for fall 2027 entrants. The Thompson Foundation and BGSU's Thompson Scholars page still list $5,500 plus $5,500, or $11,000 a year. Either way, the BGSU half can be the student's University Freshman Academic Scholarship. Requires documented high school community service, fall admission, a FAFSA and the Thompson application by February 18. Firelands Pathway students are not eligible. Scholars keep a 3.0 GPA, earn 30 credits a year, complete 20 service hours a year and file the FAFSA annually.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students from working families who already volunteer and have solid grades. BGSU has 1,416 Thompson Scholars on campus in 2026-27, so this is not a long shot for the right family. File the FAFSA early and do not skip the separate application.
App Required
Falcon Achievement Award
📅 Deadline: February 18 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPAFirst-generation college student, or a demonstrated commitment to inclusion and belonging for all students. Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Generally combines with automatic merit. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for undergraduate admission, submit the FAFSA, and complete the Falcon Achievement Award application in your Scholarship Opportunities list in AcademicWorks by February 19.
Competitive, renewable award of $1,000 to $3,000 a year. Requires admission, credentials, a FAFSA and a separate Falcon Achievement application in AcademicWorks by February 18. BGSU Admissions still lists this award, but the September 2026 financial aid list of freshman awards does not, so confirm it appears in your student's Recommended Opportunities.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
First-generation students, or students who can show real work making their school or community a place where everyone belongs, with at least a 3.0 GPA. The short application is where this one is won.
Data last verified Sep 26, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Flagship / Competitive Scholarship FAQs
What does the President’s Leadership Academy cover?
Up to the full cost of in-state tuition and general fees for eight straight fall and spring semesters. It doesn’t cover housing or meals. Out-of-state scholars still owe the non-resident fee, though BG Success can cover half of it.
How do you apply to the President’s Leadership Academy?
Get admitted to BGSU first (BGSU suggests applying by early November), then submit the PLA application through MyBGSU by December 9. It includes two leadership essays and an activities list, and your student needs a FAFSA on file. Only graduating high school seniors can apply. Finalists interview on campus on January 23 or 24, 2027, and final offers go out by late March.
What does PLA expect from students?
A lot, which is part of why it works. Scholars complete a summer program before freshman year, take required first-year courses, attend regular meetings, do 10 service hours per semester, join a student organization and keep a 2.75 GPA.
How much is the Thompson Working Families Scholarship?
BGSU’s own pages disagree right now. The financial aid office lists $12,000 a year ($6,000 from the Thompson Foundation plus a $6,000 BGSU match) for fall 2027 students, while the Thompson program pages still say $11,000. Either way, the BGSU half can be your student’s freshman academic award, so it isn’t all new money.
Who gets the Thompson scholarship?
Students from working families with financial need, solid grades and a history of community service. It’s big: BGSU has 1,416 Thompson Scholars on campus in 2026-27. Your student needs fall admission, a FAFSA, documented service and the Thompson application by February 18. Scholars keep a 3.0 GPA and do 20 service hours a year.
What is the Falcon Achievement Award?
A competitive $1,000 to $3,000 renewable award for first-generation students, or students who have shown a commitment to inclusion and belonging, with at least a 3.0 GPA. It needs its own application in AcademicWorks by February 18. BGSU’s financial aid office no longer lists it on its freshman page, so check that it appears in your student’s Recommended Opportunities.
Admission gets your student automatic merit. Everything else runs through AcademicWorks, BGSU’s scholarship portal, which opens every October 1. It holds roughly 1,100 listings.
Log into MyBGSU and finish the general scholarship application. That one form matches your student to every award they qualify for.
If your student has a declared major, finish the college-specific application that appears next. Undecided students do not get this layer.
Open Recommended Opportunities and complete any award that asks for an essay or recommendation.
Get it all done by February 18, then screenshot the confirmation.
Parent translation: the general application takes about as long as a pizza delivery, and it’s the single highest-return thing your student can do after applying.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These awards don’t come automatically, but most of them stack with merit and fill real gaps. Some are for incoming freshmen, and plenty are for students once they’re on campus, so keep checking every year.
App Required
Choose Ohio First (COF) Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Listed in AcademicWorks ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Varies
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
May be combined with other BGSU scholarships, up to cost of full tuition
📄
How to Apply
Log in to the BGSU Searchable Scholarship Guide and complete the COF application by annual deadline; must be STEM major in good standing
Selection criteria: Academic merit, major
💡
Strategic Detail
For incoming freshmen who are Ohio residents with a 3.0 high school GPA and an approved STEM major (the list includes aviation flight, forensic science, engineering, computer science, pre-nursing, pre-health and STEM education). Does not cover general fees. Award amount varies. Renewable for up to three more years at the committee's discretion. Apply through AcademicWorks.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: High-achieving Ohio STEM majors who meet renewal and program criteria
App Required
AIMS (Academic Investment in Math & Science)
📅 Deadline: Listed in AcademicWorks ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$2,000–$3,500/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
The yearly amount is set based on the rest of the financial aid package.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via BGSU Searchable Scholarship Guide; complete AIMS application, provide essay responses and FAFSA
Selection criteria: Need, academics, program involvement
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Four-year STEM program award that steps up each year: $2,000, $2,500, $3,000 and $3,500, for $11,000 total. Reviewed on academics, financial need and the AIMS essay questions. Funds apply only to instructional and general fees, and renewal depends on performance and program participation.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: STEM majors with financial need who commit to AIMS program goals and participate in mentoring/summer bridge
App Required⚠ Upperclassmen Only
Board of Trustees Leadership Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 26 Non-Renewable
Varies
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Upperclassmen
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Submit leadership essay and departmental scholarship application
For rising juniors and seniors who are full-time, in good standing, with a 3.0 GPA and clear leadership potential. One short essay on leadership philosophy (350 words max). Award amount varies.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Sophomores, juniors, seniors with outstanding leadership growth and 3.0+ GPA
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College of Arts & Sciences GAP Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies Non-Renewable
Varies
✔ Stackable
🏫 2.0+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
College of Arts & Sciences application, indicated financial need via FAFSA
Selection criteria: Need, achievement
💡
Strategic Detail
Preference for minority/first-generation students; amounts and deadlines vary
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Minority or first-generation Arts & Sciences majors with clear financial need
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Departmental Scholarships (various)
📅 Deadline: Spring (varies by department/fund) Non-Renewable
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Departmental application, nomination, or BGSU Scholarship Portal entry
Selection criteria: Varies by department and fund
💡
Strategic Detail
Eligibility, criteria, and amounts vary significantly by major, donor, and department
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Outstanding students in English, Nursing, Engineering, and other majors; varies by donor fund and department
Stipends are paid to the student and generally sit alongside other aid. Confirm with financial aid.
📄
How to Apply
Complete CURS application; faculty mentor and clear project proposal required
Selection criteria: Research potential, mentor support
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Grants for undergraduates doing research, scholarly or creative projects with a faculty mentor. Fall and spring grants: up to $500 in project costs ($750 for a group) plus up to a $200 stipend. Summer grants: the same project funds plus up to a $2,500 stipend. Travel grants of up to $200 help students present their work. Open to all majors; Honors is not required.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Undergrads with well-developed, mentored research projects
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Education Abroad Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies by fund Non-Renewable
Varies
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Regular financial aid can also be applied to approved study abroad programs.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Education Abroad portal with program plan and budget
Selection criteria: Essay, program relevance
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
One BGSU general scholarship application puts students in the running for dozens of study abroad awards, and BGSU also offers an international travel grant for U.S. citizens and residents with a FAFSA on file. Amounts vary by fund and program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students undertaking academic study abroad with clear educational goals
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Dulin Service Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 27 Non-Renewable
$250–$1,000
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~2 per year winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Honors College application and 500-word service essay
Selection criteria: Service, achievement, essay
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
For Honors students completing ≥30 BGSU credits; impact-focused selection
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Civically engaged Honors students committed to service/community change
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Walker Memorial Marching Band Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews (3 GPA)
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Female Falcon Marching Band members only.
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Falcon Marching Band program
Selection criteria: Band and academic achievement
💡
Strategic Detail
For a female member of the Falcon Marching Band who is a full-time student with a 3.0 GPA. Apply through AcademicWorks.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Female band members with strong academics and commitment
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Van Gorder Memorial Trumpet Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Trumpet players in the Falcon Marching Band who are music majors.
🏫 3.2+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Band/music application for trumpet-playing music majors
Selection criteria: Band/music achievement
💡
Strategic Detail
Supports a trumpet player in the Falcon Marching Band who is an undergraduate music major with a 3.2 GPA. Apply through AcademicWorks.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Trumpet players majoring in music with active band participation
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Vince Polce Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews
Varies
✔ Stackable
⚠ Music education majors active in University Bands.
🏫 3.5+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Departmental application; active in University Bands; Music Education majors
Apply via AFROTC Detachment 620 portal and scholarship board
Selection criteria: Fitness, academic, and leadership
🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Awards include tuition, monthly stipend, book stipend; housing/meal plan sometimes available
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Leadership-driven, fitness-passing students in STEM with AFROTC commitment
Data last verified Sep 26, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Hidden Gems FAQ
What is the Choose Ohio First scholarship at BGSU?
A state-funded STEM award for incoming freshmen who are Ohio residents with at least a 3.0 GPA and an approved STEM major. The list is broad and includes aviation flight, forensic science, engineering, computer science, pre-nursing, pre-health and STEM teaching. The amount varies, and it can combine with other BGSU aid up to full tuition.
What is the AIMS scholarship?
A four-year award for STEM majors in BGSU’s Academic Investment in Math and Science program. It steps up each year, from $2,000 to $2,500 to $3,000 to $3,500, for $11,000 total. Selection looks at academics, financial need and the AIMS essays.
Are there scholarships for students already at BGSU?
Yes, a lot of them. The Board of Trustees Leadership Scholarship is for rising juniors and seniors (3.0 GPA, one short essay, due February 26). The Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship funds student research, with summer stipends up to $2,500. Returning students should fill out the general application every year.
Are there band and music scholarships for non-music majors?
Some. The Jessica J. Walker Memorial Scholarship is open to women in the Falcon Marching Band with a 3.0 GPA, regardless of major. Others, like the Van Gorder trumpet award and the Vince Polce scholarship, are for music majors or music education majors.
Does BGSU have ROTC scholarships?
Yes. BGSU hosts Army and Air Force ROTC, and national ROTC scholarships can cover tuition. They usually stack with BGSU merit, but check the award letter.
Can scholarships be used for study abroad?
Yes. Regular financial aid can go toward approved programs, the general application covers dozens of study abroad awards, and there’s a separate international travel grant for students with a FAFSA on file.
The BGSU Honors College is where the biggest academic scholarships live. It also has a surprisingly open door. The Honors College has no GPA or test score requirement for admission, and BGSU says every Honors student receives a BGSU scholarship. Honors students bring in more than $6.8 million a year combined.
Admission: Separate Honors College application after your student is admitted to BGSU
Full-tuition deadline: November 15, with official ACT or SAT scores and transcript
The catch: Test-optional students can join Honors, but they can’t compete for the full-tuition awards without scores on file
Honors College Scholarships & Fellowships
Full TuitionApp Requiredhonors
Presidential Scholars Award (PSA)
📅 Deadline: November 15 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state tuition and fees
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Competitive Honors College scholarship covering in‑state tuition and fees only.
🏫 3.8+ GPA✎ ~30 ACT✎ ~1380 SAT
📄
How to Apply
Apply to BGSU, meet minimum GPA and test score criteria, and complete the Honors College application by November 15 with ACT/SAT scores and official high school transcript. Selected finalists are invited to the scholarship competition day on campus.
Selection criteria: GPA, test scores, academic rigor, essay, leadership, interview
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers full in-state tuition and fees for up to eight semesters. Requires a 3.8 cumulative GPA and a 30 ACT or 1380 SAT, admission to BGSU, and a separate Honors College application with official test scores and transcript by November 15. Incomplete files are not eligible. Finalists interview on campus. Scholars take a first-year class together, attend monthly meetings, serve as Honors leaders and keep a 3.0 GPA. Transfer students are not eligible.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top Honors College applicants with rigorous academic records, strong essays and real leadership and service. The interview is the final gate. A 3.8 GPA and a 30 ACT or 1380 SAT are the floor, not the typical winner.
Full TuitionApp Required
Alumni Laureate Scholarship (ALS)
📅 Deadline: November 15 · 📢 Results: December (interview invitation) ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state tuition and fees plus $1,000 annual book award
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Highly competitive honors award covering in‑state tuition, fees, and books.
Apply to BGSU and complete the Honors College application by November 15, including ACT/SAT scores and official high school transcript. A separate ALS essay is required within the Honors application. Eligible applicants are notified in December if selected for an interview.
Selection criteria: Communication skills, community engagement, dedication to activities, leadership, networking ability, willingness to engage with donors
✎ Essays🎤 Interview🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers educational expenses up to full-time in-state tuition for eight uninterrupted fall and spring semesters, plus a $1,000 book award each year. Requires a 3.5 GPA and a 27 ACT or 1280 SAT, admission to BGSU, and the Honors College application (including the extra ALS essay) with official scores by November 15. Interview candidates are notified in December. Up to six scholars are chosen each year. Commitments include monthly meetings, 15 service hours per semester, a professional development activity each semester, donor and alumni events, and a 3.0 GPA.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming first-year students who check every box: strong GPA and test scores, real leadership, community service, and the ability to connect with donors and alumni. The ALS is a cohort program as much as a scholarship, with monthly meetings, 15 service hours per semester and alumni events built in. Up to six recipients per year.
Full TuitionApp Requiredmajor specificpipeline
Forsyth Award
📅 Deadline: November 15 ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Full Tuition
full in-state tuition and fees
✘ Not stackable
⚠ A full in‑state tuition‑and‑fees award for top Honors College Presidential Scholars majoring in Geology, Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Analysis, or Geography
Apply to BGSU and complete the Honors College application by November 15 with ACT/SAT scores and official high school transcript. Declare an eligible major in the School of Earth, Environment, and Society (Geology, Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Analysis, or Geography). The Forsyth Award is awarded to students who receive the Presidential Scholars Award and are in an eligible SES major.
Selection criteria: Presidential Scholars Award criteria plus eligible SES major declaration
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Layered on the Presidential Scholars Award. A PSA-eligible student who declares a major in the School of Earth, Environment and Society (geology, environmental science, environmental policy and analysis, or geography) can receive the Forsyth designation. Covers full in-state tuition and fees for eight semesters. Up to two awarded each year. Honors College application due November 15.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who earn the Presidential Scholars Award and are majoring in Geology, Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Analysis, or Geography. If you're an elite academic heading into earth or environmental sciences at BGSU, this award essentially upgrades your PSA with a named, prestige designation and faculty mentorship from day one. Up to 2 are awarded each year.
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to BGSU, declare a major in the Schmidthorst College of Business, and complete the Honors College application by November 15 with ACT/SAT scores and official high school transcript.
Selection criteria: Academic achievement, business major enrollment, Honors acceptance, essay
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
One-time $5,000 scholarship awarded to two outstanding incoming freshman business majors who are accepted into the Honors College. Requires Schmidthorst College of Business major and Honors College application with essay by November 15. Not renewable.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top incoming business students who also apply to the Honors College by November 15. Only two $5,000 awards are offered, so strong grades, test scores and a clear commitment to the Schmidthorst College of Business matter.
App Required
Dean Simon Morgan-Russell Scholarship in Arts & Sciences
📅 Deadline: March 1 Non-Renewable
Varies
✔ Stackable
👥 ~One awarded annually winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Must be accepted into the Honors College. Apply via the Searchable Scholarship Guide (AcademicWorks) at BGSU. Deadline for fall enrollment is March 1.
Selection criteria: Honors College acceptance, College of Arts & Sciences major, ACT 30+
💡
Strategic Detail
Supports Honors College students majoring in the College of Arts and Sciences. One scholarship awarded each year; the amount varies and is not published. Applied for separately in AcademicWorks, with a March 1 deadline for fall per the Honors College. Named for former Honors College dean Dr. Simon Morgan-Russell.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming Honors freshmen majoring in an Arts and Sciences program. Only one award is given each year, but Arts and Sciences covers a lot of majors, from the humanities and social sciences to the natural sciences. Look for it in AcademicWorks.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Experience Study Abroad Scholarship
📅 Deadline: March 1 Non-Renewable
$2,000
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.4+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Combines with other BGSU scholarships up to the full instructional and general fees for the semester abroad.
📄
How to Apply
Complete the Honors College study abroad scholarship application with an approved BGSU study abroad program. Deadline for fall programs is March 1.
Selection criteria: Honors enrollment, approved study abroad plan, essay; awarded to all eligible applicants by deadline
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
One-time award of up to $2,000 toward instructional and general fees for a BGSU Education Abroad program. Given to all eligible Honors students who apply by the deadline (March 1 for fall programs).
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors College students who apply by the March 1 deadline for a BGSU Education Abroad program. The Honors College gives this award to all eligible Honors students who apply on time, so it is about as close to guaranteed money as it gets.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
J. Robert Bashore Honors Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Spring (annual) Non-Renewable
$1,000–$2,500
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.5+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Current BGSU Honors College students apply via the Honors College scholarship application each spring.
Selection criteria: Academic achievement, essay quality, Honors College involvement
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
One-time award ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 for current Honors College students (not incoming freshmen). Annual spring application cycle through the Honors College. Open to all majors; selection based on academic record, essay, and Honors College engagement. Not renewable.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Continuing Honors students, not incoming freshmen, with strong academic records and active Honors College involvement. Selection weighs the cumulative record, essay quality and engagement in Honors. Open to all majors.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Tom Klein Scholarship
📅 Deadline: February 27 ✓ Renews (3.2 GPA)
$500–$1,500
✔ Stackable
🏫 3.2+ GPA🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Usually combines with other BGSU awards. Confirm on the award letter.
📄
How to Apply
Current Honors College members apply via the Honors College scholarship application with essay and community leadership documentation by the February 27 deadline.
Selection criteria: Community leadership, service record, essay, financial need
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Available to upper-class Honors College members who demonstrate community leadership and financial need. February 27 application deadline. Renewable with a 3.2 GPA maintained. Award range is $500–$1,500; amount reflects both need and service record.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Upper-class Honors College members who have shown real community leadership, meaning initiative and impact rather than just participation, and who have financial need. If your student is a junior or senior in Honors who has kept giving back, this is worth applying for.
Data last verified Sep 26, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*The GPA and test minimums on these awards are for the scholarships only, not for getting into the Honors College.
Deadline Note: The Presidential Scholars Award, Alumni Laureate Scholarship, Forsyth Award and McGranaghan Scholarship all need the Honors application in by November 15, with test scores and transcript. Missing pieces make a student ineligible, not just late. The Simon Morgan-Russell Scholarship and the Honors study abroad award use a March 1 deadline instead.
Quick Guide to the Big Honors Awards
Presidential Scholars Award: Full in-state tuition and fees. 3.8 GPA and 30 ACT or 1380 SAT to compete.
Alumni Laureate Scholarship: Full in-state tuition plus a $1,000 book award each year. 3.5 GPA and 27 ACT or 1280 SAT. Up to six per year.
Forsyth Award: Full in-state tuition and fees for School of Earth, Environment and Society majors. Up to two per year.
McGranaghan Scholarship: Two $5,000 awards for Honors business students.
Honors College FAQs (Bowling Green State University)
Is it hard to get into the BGSU Honors College?
Not in the way most people assume. There’s no minimum GPA or test score to join. Your student applies separately after being admitted to BGSU, and the application also decides who gets invited to interview for the big scholarships.
Can a test-optional student win a full-tuition Honors scholarship?
No. Test-optional students can be admitted to Honors, but to compete for the full-tuition awards they need an ACT or SAT score on file by November 15.
Does the Presidential Scholars Award cover out-of-state tuition?
It covers full in-state tuition and fees. Out-of-state winners still face the non-resident fee, which BG Success can cut in half, or the Indiana and Michigan county programs can wipe out entirely.
What do full-tuition scholars have to do?
These are cohort programs. Presidential Scholars take a first-year class together, meet monthly and serve as Honors leaders. Alumni Laureates do 15 service hours per semester and attend alumni and donor events. Both require a 3.0 GPA.
Is there Honors money after freshman year?
Yes. The Honors study abroad award gives $2,000 to every eligible Honors student who applies on time, and awards like the Bashore and Tom Klein scholarships are for continuing Honors students.
BGSU is a mid-sized public research university in northwest Ohio, about 20 minutes south of Toledo. It doesn’t try to be everything to everyone. Where it stands out, it really stands out, especially in programs that put students next to working professionals from day one.
Nationally Known Program: Forensic Science: BGSU’s campus is home to an Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation crime lab, and several faculty are working forensic scientists there. The bachelor’s degree is one of only two in Ohio accredited by FEPAC, the national accrediting body for forensic science programs. Students pick from specializations in DNA analysis, drug analysis or forensic examination, and there’s an accredited path straight into the master’s.
Education: BGSU has trained Ohio’s teachers since it opened as a teachers’ college in 1914. It still graduates hundreds of education majors a year, from early childhood and special education to STEM teaching.
Aviation: BGSU runs its own flight program with an airport right by campus. Students can earn a pilot pathway degree without leaving Bowling Green.
Business: The Schmidthorst College of Business is one of BGSU’s largest colleges, with strong numbers in supply chain management, marketing, finance and accounting.
Media and Communication: Journalism, public relations, digital media and advertising programs with hands-on student media.
Popular Culture: This one is truly unique. BGSU has the only Department of Popular Culture in the country, founded in 1973, plus the nation’s only master’s degree in the field and one of the largest pop culture research libraries anywhere.
Resort and Attraction Management: A specialized degree built on an industry partnership, for students who want careers in theme parks, resorts and tourism.
BGSU also highlights a Wall Street Journal ranking naming it the #1 public university in Ohio for career preparation.
🔗 Official Bowling Green State University Links
Use BGSU’s official pages below to double-check admissions steps, scholarship rules, costs and deadlines. When anything on this page and BGSU’s site disagree, go with BGSU.
Big picture? BGSU is a school where the money is mostly predictable, and that’s worth a lot when you’re trying to plan four years out. Nearly every admitted freshman gets automatic merit. Out-of-state families get real help with the non-resident fee, and if you live in the right Indiana or Michigan county, you pay what an Ohio family pays. The Falcon Tuition Guarantee means the price you plan for freshman year is the price you pay senior year.
The two things that trip families up are timing and the extra applications. The biggest awards are due in November and December, not February, and the general scholarship application in AcademicWorks is where most of the smaller money hides. If your student is aiming for forensic science, aviation, teaching or something as one-of-a-kind as popular culture, BGSU is worth a serious look. Get the applications in early and don’t leave that easy money on the table.
Your kid did everything right. That does not mean the money follows.
Most families build a college list first and think about scholarships second, which is backwards. This free four-part series shows you where the money actually comes from, and how to build a list around it.
After the series, about once a month, sometimes twice during application season. No drip funnels, no affiliate pitches, and we never sell your information. Unsubscribe anytime.
Leo Dimilo
Leo is the founder of CollegeReadyParent, a free resource for middle-income and first-generation families figuring out how to pay for college. He built it after going through the whole process with his own daughter and realizing how much of the good information is buried on school websites. No paywall, no lead forms, just plain English. More about Leo →
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