Do we need a separate application for automatic merit?

No. Apply to OSU by November 1 and you are automatically reviewed. OSU superscores ACT/SAT for awarding, so send all test dates.

Do test scores help if OSU is test-optional?

Yes. Strong ACT/SAT scores strengthen eligibility for automatic and competitive merit, especially for nonresidents targeting National Buckeye.

Do competitive scholarships require extra steps?

Yes. Programs like Morrill require a separate essay; Eminence requires additional materials and interviews. Apply by November 1 early action.

Does Ohio State offer full-ride scholarships?

Yes, but they are competitive and limited. Examples include Eminence Fellows (full COA + stipend) and the Land Grant Opportunity Scholarship (full COA for Pell-eligible Ohio residents).

When are competitive scholarship decisions released?

Most notifications arrive between late January and mid-March. Eminence finalists may be contacted earlier for interviews.

Can hidden-gem and departmental awards stack with merit?

Often yes. Smaller departmental or local awards can stack with automatic merit. If a student has a full ride, extra funds may offset other costs.

How do we find hidden-gem scholarships?

Check alumni club pages, department sites, program pages (band, first-gen, ROTC), and OSU email after admission. Many require separate applications or auditions.

🎓 Ohio State University Scholarships (2025–2026)

← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Ohio state aid

What This Page Covers:

Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
Competitive and full-ride scholarships worth applying for
Honors and Scholars programs that open more opportunities

📊 Admissions Snapshot

Acceptance Rate: ~51–60% (CDS 2024–25; varies by campus & residency)
Middle 50% ACT: 26–32
Middle 50% SAT: 1210–1420
Average HS GPA: 3.8

Source: Ohio State University Common Data Set 2024–25 and Undergraduate Admissions.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

📌

Ohio State University at a Glance

Average Net Price

$19,582

Average after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025)

Automatic Merit

$1,000–$13,500 per year (Trustees & National Buckeye Awards)

National Buckeye offers up to $54,000 total over 4 years for nonresidents

Typical Qualifiers

GPA 3.6+ • ACT 28+ • SAT 1300+

Top tiers for 3.8+ GPA and ACT 31+

Testing Policy

Test-optional for 2025–26 • Required starting Fall 2026

Columbus campus reinstating ACT/SAT requirement for 2026–27 applicants

Key Deadlines

Nov 1: Early Action • Feb 1: Final

FAFSA priority: Feb 1

Honors College

University Honors & Scholars Programs

Includes Scholars communities, research, and access to competitive awards like Morrill and Stamps Eminence

Full-Tuition / Full-Ride

Stamps Eminence Scholarship Program

Covers full cost of attendance plus stipend; requires separate early application

Residency & Waivers

National Buckeye Award (Nonresidents)

Reduces out-of-state tuition by $13,500 per year for high-achieving nonresidents

Verified from Ohio State University Office of Admissions & Scholarships (2025–26).
Last verified: October 14, 2025

Ohio State University remains one of the Midwest’s most selective public flagships. Automatic scholarships like the Trustees and National Buckeye Awards reward strong academic records—especially for nonresidents. The Stamps Eminence Scholarship and Morrill Program offer full cost of attendance for exceptional and mission-driven applicants.

For 2025–26, OSU is still test-optional, but families should note that ACT/SAT scores will again be required beginning with Fall 2026 applicants to the Columbus campus.

FAQ

Does Ohio State offer automatic merit scholarships? Yes — high-achieving applicants are automatically considered for Trustees and National Buckeye Awards.

Are there full-ride scholarships? Yes — the Stamps Eminence Scholarship Program covers full cost of attendance and provides a living stipend.

What’s the average net price? About $19,582 after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025).

When should students apply? Apply by November 1 to be considered for top merit programs like Eminence and Morrill. FAFSA priority is February 1.

Sources:
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?204796-Ohio-State-University-Main-Campus
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/ohio-state-university-columbus-campus/tuition-and-costs
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/basic-costs
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/3983/national-buckeye-scholarship-for-non-ohio-residents.html
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/news/2024/08/09/stamps-eminence-scholarship-program-application-opens-autumn-2025
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/eminence
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/ohio-state-university-national-buckeye-scholarscholarship

💰 Cost of Attendance at The Ohio State University (Columbus Campus, 2025–26)

Below are Ohio State’s estimated 2025–2026 direct costs for a full-time undergraduate living on campus in Columbus. These reflect typical tuition, mandatory fees, and housing costs before financial aid or scholarships are applied.

Category	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Mandatory Fees	$13,641	$42,423
Housing & Meals (on campus)	$15,252	$15,252
Estimated Total (Direct/Billed)	$28,893	$57,675

Note: These totals include tuition, mandatory fees, and a standard housing/meal plan. Additional indirect expenses (books, transportation, and personal costs) typically add $3,000–$4,000 per year.

📉 Average Net Price (after scholarships and grants)

The average net price for full-time undergraduates at Ohio State is approximately $19,582 per year after scholarships and grants (College Scorecard 2025). Actual costs vary by income, residency, and scholarship eligibility.

🌍 Out-of-State Tuition Scholarships

Ohio State’s Columbus campus is not part of the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), but out-of-state students can significantly reduce costs through merit scholarships:

National Buckeye Scholarship: For high-achieving nonresidents, valued up to $13,500 per year ($54,000 over 4 years).
Trustees Scholarship: Typically awarded at $1,000–$3,000 per year based on academic performance.
Stamps Eminence Scholarship Program: Covers full cost of attendance plus stipend; highly competitive and requires early application.

❓ Cost & Scholarship FAQs

Does OSU participate in MSEP?
Ohio participates in MSEP, but the Columbus campus does not currently offer that discount.

How can out-of-state students lower their cost?
High-achieving students can earn substantial merit aid, including the National Buckeye Scholarship (up to $54,000 over 4 years) and other competitive awards.

What’s the best way to estimate your real cost?
Review Ohio State’s published cost of attendance, apply early for merit aid (by November 1), and factor in your family’s eligibility for federal and state grants.

Sources:
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/basic-costs
https://news.osu.edu/ohio-state-sets-tuition-and-fees-for-the-2025-2026-academic-year/
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/ohio-state-6883/paying
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?204796-Ohio-State-University-Main-Campus
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/ohio-state-university-columbus-campus/tuition-and-costs
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/3983/national-buckeye-scholarship-for-non-ohio-residents.html
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/eminence
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/news/2024/08/09/stamps-eminence-scholarship-program-application-opens-autumn-ns-autumn-2025

✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships

💡 Good news: Ohio State superscores both the ACT and SAT when awarding scholarships. That means your student’s best section scores across multiple test dates can be combined to meet eligibility thresholds.

These awards are based on GPA and test scores—no extra application required as long as your student applies by the November 1 early action deadline.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
National Buckeye Scholarship (Nonresident)	$13,500/year	Nonresidents; typically 29+ ACT / 1330+ SAT and ~3.5+ GPA; superscore considered	No (automatic review)	Yes (up to 4 years; maintain GPA/progress)	Out-of-state students with strong academics; often stacks with smaller awards, but not with other full-tuition packages	Nov 1 (Early Action)
Maximus Scholarship (Ohio residents)	$3,000/year	Ohio residents; typically 30+ ACT / 1360+ SAT and ~3.6+ GPA; superscore considered	No (automatic review)	Yes (up to 4 years; maintain GPA/progress)	Top in-state applicants; pairs with need-based aid and smaller departmental awards	Nov 1 (Early Action)
Provost Scholarship (Ohio residents)	$2,500/year	Ohio residents; typically 28–29 ACT / 1300–1350 SAT and ~3.5+ GPA; superscore considered	No (automatic review)	Yes (up to 4 years; maintain GPA/progress)	Strong in-state students just below Maximus band; often combined with grants	Nov 1 (Early Action)

Note: GPA and test score cutoffs above are approximate when not explicitly stated by OSU. They reflect a mix of official descriptions, past recipient data, and published student profile statistics. Cutoffs can shift based on the year’s applicant pool and funding.

🎯 Why Out-of-State Kids Get More: OSU uses awards like National Buckeye to recruit high-achieving nonresidents—who still pay more than in-state families after the discount. If your student is applying from out of state, this can be your biggest financial lever.

❓ Automatic Scholarship FAQs

Do we need a separate application?
No. As long as your student applies to OSU by November 1, they’re automatically reviewed for these scholarships.

Does OSU really superscore for scholarships?
Yes—OSU considers superscored ACT/SAT results for merit awarding. Send all test dates so your student’s best section scores count.

Are test scores required if OSU is test-optional?
Test scores aren’t required for admission, but strong ACT/SAT results help for automatic merit awards—especially for nonresidents targeting National Buckeye.

Can National Buckeye stack with other awards?
Often it can stack with smaller OSU or departmental awards, but not with another full-tuition or full-ride package. OSU typically gives the single best offer rather than stacking multiple big awards.

Is the amount locked for four years?
Most automatic merit awards are renewable up to 4 years if GPA and credit progress are maintained. Always check your specific award letter for renewal GPA and credit requirements.

What if my student is close to a cutoff?
Since OSU superscores, an extra section retake can push a student over the line. Also shore up GPA senior fall—final transcripts can matter for renewal, even if the initial award is based on earlier data.

Sources:
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/3983/national-buckeye-scholarship-for-non-ohio-residents.html
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/ohio-state-university-national-buckeye-scholarship
https://www.fastweb.com/college-scholarships/scholarships/182477-national-buckeye-scholarship-ohio-state-university
https://collegereadyparent.org/ohio-state-university-scholarships/
https://www.collegedata.com/scholarship-finder/276543
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/future-students/presidents-ohio-scholarship-program
am

Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)

These scholarships require extra steps—separate essays, interviews, or invitations—and most are only available if you apply by the November 1 early action deadline. They’re highly competitive, but worth it.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Morrill Scholarship Program (MSP)	Full tuition (some tiers include housing/meal support)	OSU app by Nov 1; MSP essay on diversity, equity, and inclusion	Yes (portal unlocks after OSU app)	Yes (program participation + good standing)	Academically strong (≈3.7+ GPA typical) with sustained DEI leadership and advocacy	Nov 1 (Early Action)
Land Grant Opportunity Scholarship (Ohio residents)	Full cost of attendance (tuition, fees, housing, meals, books)	Pell-eligible Ohio residents; selection aims to cover all 88 counties	No separate app (OSU app + FAFSA)	Yes (maintain eligibility and academic progress)	Low-income in-state students with solid academics; two per county target	Nov 1 (OSU app) + FAFSA ASAP
Distinguished University Scholarship (invite-only)	Up to full tuition (no direct application)	Top applicants identified in holistic review; early action strongly recommended	No (awarded at OSU’s discretion)	Yes (good standing)	National-caliber academics (often Honors-level; 34+ ACT / 1500+ SAT common)	Nov 1 (recommended)

Heads up: Criteria above reflect OSU language and typical recipient profiles; thresholds vary by year and funding.

Sometimes exceptional early-action applicants are awarded the Distinguished University Scholarship without a separate application—it simply appears in the aid offer.

Competitive Scholarship FAQs

Do we need a separate application for Morrill?
Yes. Submit the OSU application by Nov 1 to access and complete the MSP essay by the posted deadline.

Can these stack?
OSU usually offers the single best package rather than stacking multiple large awards. Small stipends may combine, but not multiple full rides.

Is Land Grant only for rural counties?
No. OSU selects two Pell-eligible students from each of Ohio’s 88 counties.

Do test scores help?
OSU is test-optional, but strong ACT/SAT scores can boost competitiveness for top awards.

When are decisions released?
Typically between late January and mid-March; watch email and the applicant portal.

Sources:
https://ugeducation.osu.edu/student-enrichment/scholars-programs/morrill-scholarship-program
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/2959/morrill-scholarship-program.html
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/ohio-state-university-morrill-scholarship-program
https://lima.osu.edu/financial-aid/scholarship-applications
https://www.bachelorsportal.com/scholarships/2752/land-grant-opportunity-scholarship-for-ohio-residents.html
https://www.fastweb.com/college-scholarships/scholarships/182478-land-grant-opportunity-scholarship-ohio-state-university
https://ugeducation.osu.edu/student-enrichment/scholars-programs
https://collegedata.com/scholarship-finder/276541
https://www.collegedata.com/scholarship-finder/276541
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/distinguished-scholarship/6102/
https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/education/2025/03/04/what-will-happen-to-osu-morrill-scholarship-young-scholars-programs-ohio-state-diversity-dei/80839111007/
https://scholarship-positions.com/morrill-scholarship-programam/2020/01/09/

Hidden Gem Scholarships

These Ohio State opportunities aren’t always front-and-center on the main aid pages, but they can add up. Many live within departments, alumni chapters, or special cohorts and may require a separate application, nomination, or audition.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Alumni Scholars Program	$600–$6,000/yr	Nomination/selection through local OSU alumni clubs	Yes (via alumni chapter)	Varies	Students with strong academics, service, and alumni ties; many awards are one-time for freshmen	Chapter-set (Jan–Mar typical)
Departmental Scholarships	$500–$2,000/yr (sometimes higher)	Declared major in a college (Engineering, Business, Arts & Sciences, etc.)	Yes (departmental apps)	Often	Continuing students who engage with their college, maintain GPA, and meet major-specific criteria	College-set (Feb–Mar typical)
Buckeye Opportunity Program	Covers remaining in-state tuition after Pell	Ohio residents with Pell eligibility	No (FAFSA only)	Yes (maintain Pell eligibility)	Low-income Ohio students; safety-net grant coordinated with federal and state aid	FAFSA priority by Feb 1
Kessler Scholars Program	Varies; includes funding, advising, and cohort support	First-generation college students	Yes (cohort application)	Yes (multi-year)	Admitted first-gen students seeking structured mentoring and community	Late winter (Feb–Mar typical)
Jim & Millie Donahue First-Generation Scholarship	Varies	First-gen students; financial need considered	Yes (via program/ODI)	Usually	Strong academic first-gen students who submit thoughtful materials	Varies (spring)
OSU Marching Band Scholarships (TBDBITL)	$500–$2,000/yr typical	Active OSUMB membership; selection within the band program	No (program-selected)	Yes (with participation)	Returning band members with strong performance and leadership	Program cycle (May–Aug)
Drum Major & Assistant Drum Major Scholarships	Full in-state tuition (drum major) + assistant award	Named OSUMB drum major or assistant	No (position-based)	Annual while in role	Selected student(s) after competitive tryouts and training	Program-set (spring selection)

Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQs

Do these stack with other OSU awards?

Often yes. Departmental, alumni, and cohort awards typically stack with automatic merit, though overall aid can’t exceed cost of attendance.

Where do we apply or express interest?

Check your college/department pages, local alumni club site, and any cohort program pages. Some (like Buckeye Opportunity) use FAFSA only.

Are any reserved for continuing students?

Yes. Many departmental and band awards are for returning students, while alumni and first-gen programs may target incoming students.

How competitive are these?

Applicant pools are smaller than flagship merit awards. Clear involvement (band, leadership, research) and on-time materials improve odds.

Sources:
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://sfa.osu.edu/incoming-freshmen/about-aid/financial-aid-eligibility
https://www.osu.edu/alumni/communities/clubs/scholarships/
https://odi.osu.edu/scholarships/
https://students.cfaes.ohio-state.edu/forms/scholarship
https://tbdbitl.osu.edu/students/scholarships
https://odi.osu.edu/programs/kessler-scholars/

Honors & Scholars at The Ohio State University

Ohio State’s Honors & Scholars Center is one of the largest and most recognized in the country—a “university within a university” offering smaller classes, personalized advising, themed communities, and access to exclusive scholarships like Eminence Fellows. High-achieving students should always check the Honors or Scholars box on their OSU application to be considered.

Honors Program: Academically focused with priority registration, Honors coursework, and research opportunities. Most successful candidates hold a 3.9+ GPA and 30+ ACT (or SAT equivalent).
Scholars Program: Themed learning communities (leadership, service, global issues, health sciences, etc.) that blend academics with community engagement. Slightly more holistic but still selective.

Honors & Scholars Scholarships

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Eminence Fellows / Stamps Eminence Scholarship	Full cost of attendance + ~$3,000 stipend	Apply to OSU by Nov 1; must indicate Honors interest; separate essay and finalist interview required	Yes – separate Eminence application + interview	Yes (maintain GPA + program participation)	Top 1% of applicants nationwide (ACT 34+ / SAT 1500+, 4.0 GPA, exceptional leadership and service)	Apply by Nov 1 (Early Action); Eminence app due early Nov; finalist interviews Feb–Mar
Honors & Scholars Enrichment Grants	$500 – $4,000	Current Honors or Scholars students proposing research, study abroad, or service projects	Yes – proposal required after enrollment	One-time or annual depending on funding	Engaged students who pursue academic enrichment, travel, or research	Rolling deadlines throughout the year (fall & spring cycles)

Parent Tip: There’s no fee to participate in Honors or Scholars, but the benefits—priority registration, small classes, and eligibility for top scholarships—make it a smart move for strong applicants.

Honors & Scholars FAQs

Do you need a separate application?
No. Indicate your interest in Honors or Scholars on the OSU Common Application and apply by November 1 (Early Action). That’s the only way to be considered.

If admitted, do students have to join?
No. Admitted students can accept or decline later—but if they don’t check the box on the application, they won’t be eligible for either program.

Do Honors students get better scholarship chances?
Yes. Competitive awards like the Eminence Fellowship and other merit grants often go to students who qualify for Honors or Scholars.

Is the Eminence Fellows Program the same as the Stamps Scholarship?
Essentially yes. Ohio State’s Eminence Fellows are also Stamps Scholars, part of the national Stamps Scholars network that includes top universities nationwide.

Can students switch between Honors and Scholars?
Rarely. Honors is academic and research-oriented; Scholars is themed and community-based. Changes require advisor approval and are uncommon.

Is it worth joining?
For many families, absolutely. Honors offers early registration and research access; Scholars provides a built-in peer community centered on service or global issues.

Is housing required?
Scholars must live in their theme residence hall the first year. Honors students are encouraged, but not required, to live in Honors housing.

Is there an added cost?
No additional tuition or program fee—only optional travel or enrichment costs depending on courses or trips.

Can Morrill Scholars also participate?
Sometimes. Some full-ride Morrill recipients are not automatically placed in Honors but can apply to join if space allows.

What GPA is required to stay in Honors?
Honors students generally maintain a 3.4 GPA or higher. Scholars participants are expected to stay in good academic standing and remain active in their theme community.

Sources:
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/eminence
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/news/2024/08/09/stamps-eminence-scholarship-program-application-opens-autumn-2025
https://undergrad.osu.edu/cost-and-aid/merit-based-scholarships
https://honors-scholars.osu.edu/future-students
https://undergrad.osu.edu/news

⭐ What Ohio State University Is Known For

Ohio State isn’t just big—it’s a powerhouse. As a public R1 research university with more than 60,000 students, OSU blends flagship-level academics, a national sports brand, and deep alumni ties across the country. Parents looking at Columbus should know: this is a school where your kid can find almost anything—whether that’s world-class engineering, marching with the band, or diving into cutting-edge health research.

📊 National Standout: Fisher College of Business is consistently ranked among the top 25 undergraduate business programs in the country (U.S. News). Its supply chain management track in particular is considered one of the best nationwide.

Engineering: College of Engineering ranks in the top 30 public programs nationally, with strength in aerospace, materials, and automotive research.
Health Sciences: OSU’s Wexner Medical Center is nationally ranked in multiple specialties and is Ohio’s top academic medical center.
Agriculture: College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences is top 10 nationally in several ag and food systems categories.
Education: College of Education and Human Ecology is ranked among the top 20 public programs nationwide.
Marching Band (TBDBITL): While not an academic program, OSU’s band is world-famous and one of the most prestigious collegiate marching programs in the country.

In short: OSU is Ohio’s flagship, and its mix of Big Ten research, Division I athletics, and nationally ranked programs makes it one of the most recognizable public universities in the U.S.

📎 Official Links

These are the official Ohio State sites for admissions, scholarships, and Honors & Scholars. Always double-check requirements and deadlines directly with the university.