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🎓 Ohio State University Scholarships
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Ohio State is one of the biggest public universities in the country—and it can actually be pretty generous with scholarships, especially for out-of-state kids with strong academics. But here’s the thing: most of the big money is competitive, and the deadlines hit early. If your son or daughter is eyeing OSU, this page breaks down the costs, the aid, and what you need to do to keep it affordable.
💰 Cost of Attendance | 📊 Automatic Scholarships | 🏆 Competitive Scholarships | 🎖️ Honors College | 💎 Hidden Gems | 📝 What To Do Next
💰 Cost of Attendance (2025–2026)
The numbers below reflect one year of attendance for full-time undergraduates on the Columbus campus.
| Category | Ohio Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $13,641 | $42,423 |
| Housing & Food | $15,178 | $15,178 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,020 | $1,020 |
| Misc. & Transportation | $3,418 | $4,046 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $33,296 | $62,706 |
Source: Ohio State University Office of Student Financial Aid (2025–26 estimates)
📉 Average Net Price (On-Campus Students)
After scholarships and grants, here’s what families typically pay per year:
After scholarships and grants, here’s what families typically pay per year:
- Ohio Residents: ~$20,151/year
- Nonresidents: ~$46,929/year
62% of undergraduates receive financial aid, with average total awards around $11,931/year. Use OSU’s Net Price Calculator to estimate your family’s costs.
🎯 Out-of-State Students: Ohio State doesn’t offer a formal out-of-state tuition waiver, but their top merit awards—especially the National Buckeye Scholarship—can knock off up to $15,000 per year. With stacking, many families cut the total cost by half or more.
💡 Good news: Ohio State superscores both the ACT and SAT when awarding scholarships. That means your kid’s best section scores across multiple test dates will be combined to help meet eligibility thresholds.
📊 Automatic Scholarships
These awards are based on GPA and test scores—no extra application required as long as your kid applies by the November 1 early action deadline.
| Scholarship | Amount | Eligibility | Stackable? | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Buckeye Scholarship | $13,500/year | Nonresidents with 29+ ACT or 1330+ SAT and 3.5+ GPA | Yes | Yes (4 years) |
| Maximus Scholarship | $3,000/year | Ohio residents with 30+ ACT or 1360+ SAT and 3.6+ GPA | Yes | Yes (4 years) |
| Provost Scholarship | $2,500/year | Ohio residents with 28–29 ACT or 1300–1350 SAT and 3.5+ GPA | Yes | Yes (4 years) |
🎯 Why Out-of-State Kids Get More: Ohio State gives bigger merit scholarships to nonresidents on purpose. They use awards like the National Buckeye to bring in strong out-of-state students who still end up paying more than in-state families—just at a discount. If your kid is applying from out of state, this is your biggest financial lever.
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
These scholarships require extra steps—like separate essays or interviews—and most are only available if you apply by the November 1 early action deadline. They’re highly competitive, but worth it.
| Scholarship | Amount | Requirements | Who Wins? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eminence Fellows Program | Full cost + $3,000/year stipend | Separate Eminence essay + interview; apply by Nov 1 | Top 1% nationally, 34+ ACT or 1500+ SAT, major leadership |
| Morrill Scholarship | Full tuition or full ride | Essay focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion | Academically strong1 students committed to DEI |
| Land Grant Opportunity Scholarship | Full cost of attendance | For Pell-eligible Ohio residents from underrepresented counties | Low-income in-state students2 with solid academics |
What that really means:
1 “Academically strong” usually means a GPA around 3.7 or higher and an ACT in the high 20s or above. But for Morrill, what really matters is your kid’s passion and involvement in diversity and inclusion work.
2 The Land Grant award is Ohio State’s way of making sure talented, low-income students from every part of the state have a shot. They pick two Pell-eligible kids from each of Ohio’s 88 counties every year.
🎓 Surprise full ride? Some top applicants are quietly awarded the Distinguished University Scholarship—a full tuition award you can’t apply for directly. There’s no extra form or essay. If your kid is being considered, Ohio State will simply include it in their financial aid offer.
To be eligible, your son or daughter needs to apply by the November 1 early action deadline. This award usually goes to students in the running for Eminence or the Honors Program—think ACT in the 34+ range, 4.0 GPA, and strong leadership or service. National Merit Finalists are also strong contenders.
To be eligible, your son or daughter needs to apply by the November 1 early action deadline. This award usually goes to students in the running for Eminence or the Honors Program—think ACT in the 34+ range, 4.0 GPA, and strong leadership or service. National Merit Finalists are also strong contenders.
❓ Competitive Scholarship FAQs
Do I have to apply separately for Eminence or Morrill?
Yes. Both the Eminence Fellows Program and the Morrill Scholarship require an extra essay—and you’ll need to apply by the November 1 early action deadline. Once your kid submits their regular OSU app, they’ll get access to the scholarship portal to finish those pieces.
What’s the difference between Honors, Eminence, and Morrill?
Honors is an academic program with smaller classes and priority registration. Eminence is a full-ride scholarship tied to Honors, but even more competitive and includes a $3,000 annual stipend. Morrill is a separate full-ride program focused on diversity and inclusion—students can be in Morrill without being in Honors, but they don’t always overlap.
Can my kid win more than one competitive scholarship?
Not usually. OSU will give your kid the best single package they qualify for—not a stack of full rides. But depending on the Morrill tier, it can sometimes be combined with other merit awards.
Is the Land Grant Scholarship only for rural counties?
Nope. “Underrepresented” just means OSU wants to make sure every part of Ohio is on the map—not just big cities or wealthy zip codes. They pick two Pell-eligible students from each county.
Does my kid have a shot at the Distinguished University Scholarship?
If your kid applies by November 1 and has a 34+ ACT (or 1500+ SAT), strong grades, and standout leadership—they might be in the running. You can’t apply for it. OSU just awards it behind the scenes if they think your kid fits the profile.
Does my kid need test scores to qualify for these scholarships?
OSU is test-optional for admission, but most of the big scholarships—especially Morrill and Eminence—still lean heavily on ACT or SAT scores. Submitting strong scores (especially if they superscore) can really help.
When will we find out if my kid got a competitive scholarship?
Scholarship notifications usually arrive between late January and mid-March, depending on the award. Eminence finalists are often contacted earlier for interviews. Be sure to check email and OSU’s applicant portal regularly.
Can my kid be in both Morrill and Honors?
Sometimes. If your kid gets the full-ride version of Morrill, they may not be placed in Honors automatically—but they can often opt in later. The two programs are separate, so overlap depends on the offer.
🎖️ Honors & Scholars Programs at OSU
Ohio State’s Honors & Scholars Center offers two tracks for high-achieving students: one focused on academics, and one on community and leadership. Both are designed to add value—and both can increase your kid’s chances at major scholarships.
- Honors Program – For students with top GPAs and test scores; includes smaller classes, early course registration, and optional Honors housing.
- Scholars Program – Theme-based communities focused on service, leadership, or academic interests. Scholars live in specific residence halls their first year and attend events tied to their theme.
📥 How do you get in?
Honors and Scholars both require you to indicate interest on the Common App or OSU application. You’ll be considered automatically during admission—but to stay eligible, you must apply by the November 1 early action deadline.
🎯 Who usually gets in?
Most Honors admits have a 3.9+ GPA and a 30+ ACT (or equivalent SAT), plus advanced coursework like AP, IB, or dual enrollment. Scholars is slightly more flexible and looks for strong grades, leadership, and community involvement.
🎁 What are the benefits?
- Priority registration for classes
- Honors-only or Scholars-specific housing options
- Access to smaller, discussion-based courses
- Extra advising and research opportunities
- Better odds at top-tier scholarships (especially Eminence)
💡 Parent Tip: If your kid qualifies, checking the box for Honors or Scholars on the application opens the door to more aid—and it doesn’t lock them in. They can always decline later. But they can’t get in if they don’t ask to be considered.
❓ Honors & Scholars FAQs
Do we have to fill out a separate application for Honors or Scholars?
Nope. There’s no extra application, but you do need to check the box on your OSU application saying you want to be considered. That’s it. After that, the review is automatic—as long as you apply by November 1.
If my kid gets invited, are they required to join?
No. Getting invited doesn’t lock you in. Your kid can accept or decline later—especially if they’re weighing housing options or already got into Morrill. But not checking the box up front takes them out of the running entirely.
Does joining Honors or Scholars improve their scholarship chances?
Yes. Many top scholarships—like Eminence and some competitive aid packages—are tied to Honors eligibility. It doesn’t guarantee anything, but it definitely puts your kid in the right rooms.
Can my kid switch between Honors and Scholars later?
Not usually. Once placed, students generally stick with one track. Scholars programs are more residential and theme-based, while Honors is more academic. Switching is rare and depends on availability and advising approval.
Is Honors really worth it?
For many families—yes. Your kid gets smaller classes, better advising, early registration, and a shot at more aid. It’s especially worth considering if they’re pre-med, pre-law, or applying to highly competitive majors.
Does my kid have to live on campus if they’re in Honors or Scholars?
For Scholars, yes—living in the program’s assigned residence hall is required the first year. For Honors, it’s optional but strongly encouraged. Many kids choose Honors housing because it comes with built-in community and easier access to events and support.
Is there an extra fee to be in Honors or Scholars?
No. There’s no additional tuition or program fee just for being in Honors or Scholars. Some special classes or trips may have small costs, but participation in the program itself is free.
Can a kid in Morrill also be in Honors or Scholars?
Sometimes. It depends on which Morrill tier your kid is awarded. Students receiving the full-ride version of Morrill aren’t always placed in Honors automatically, but they can sometimes join later by request. The programs are separate but not mutually exclusive.
Does my kid have to maintain a certain GPA to stay in Honors?
Yes. Most Honors students need to keep a 3.4 GPA or higher to stay in good standing. Scholars students have more flexibility depending on the theme, but they’re still expected to stay academically engaged.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These aren’t always listed on OSU’s main scholarship page—but they’re real. Some are local, some come from academic departments, and others reward leadership, talent, or service. Many require your kid to apply separately or follow up once they’re admitted.
🎓 General & Local Opportunities
- Alumni Scholars Program – Offered through OSU’s alumni clubs across the country. Requires a nomination and separate application. Typical awards range from $600 to $6,000/year.
- Departmental Scholarships – After declaring a major, students may qualify for additional aid from colleges like Engineering, Business, or Arts & Sciences. Amounts usually fall between $500 and $2,000/year, with more available in later years.
- Buckeye Opportunity Program – Covers any remaining in-state tuition after Pell Grants. Only available to Ohio residents with financial need. No separate application required—just file the FAFSA on time.
🎷 Music, Band & Arts Scholarships
- Marching Band Scholarships – Available to returning members and leadership roles in OSU’s marching band (TBDBITL). Most awards range from $500 to $2,000/year. Not available to incoming freshmen. Learn more
- School of Music Awards – For students auditioning into performance majors or ensembles. Can range from $1,000 to full tuition depending on talent and need. Details here
- Department of Art Scholarships – Talent-based awards for admitted art majors. Typically $500 to $3,000/year. Requires a portfolio and faculty review.
🪖 ROTC & Military-Affiliated Scholarships
- ROTC Scholarships – Army, Air Force, and Navy ROTC students can earn full tuition plus a monthly stipend and book allowance. Requires a separate application through the military branch and OSU. Apply here
🏅 Leadership, Identity & First-Gen Support
- Student Leadership Awards – Available after enrollment for students active in student government, advocacy, or ambassador programs. Typically $500 to $1,500/year.
- First-Gen Student Support Awards – Offered through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Usually range from $500 to $2,500, often tied to summer bridge programs or peer mentoring.
🧠 Reminder: These aren’t automatic—you’ll need to look for them. Some require a short form, an audition, or follow-up once your kid is admitted. Encourage them to check OSU emails and department websites in the spring.
💵 Heads-up: The dollar amounts listed above are ballpark estimates based on recent awards. Exact numbers can vary depending on the program, year, or available funding.
💵 Heads-up: The dollar amounts listed above are ballpark estimates based on recent awards. Exact numbers can vary depending on the program, year, or available funding.
❓ Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQs
How do we even find these smaller scholarships?
Most of these aren’t listed in one place. You’ll want to check department websites (like Art, Engineering, or Music), monitor your kid’s OSU email after admission, and search for things like “Alumni Scholars Ohio State” or “[Your Major] scholarship OSU.” If your kid’s serious about marching band, ROTC, or performance programs, those usually have their own scholarship pages.
Can my kid get these and also keep their merit scholarship?
Often yes. Many of these smaller awards (especially departmental or local ones) can stack with OSU’s larger merit scholarships. But if your kid’s already on a full ride, some of the extra aid may just offset other costs instead of adding on top.
Do these scholarships apply to freshmen, or are they for later years?
A mix of both. Some are available to incoming freshmen (like alumni or audition-based awards), but many open up after your kid has picked a major or completed a year. Encourage them to stay engaged and keep checking once they’re enrolled.
Are the amounts guaranteed each year?
Not always. Many of these awards depend on department budgets or donor funds that change year to year. What we’ve listed are realistic ranges based on recent cycles, but nothing is guaranteed until your kid gets the offer in writing.
How should my kid ask about department scholarships?
It doesn’t have to be formal. Once they’ve been admitted, they can email the department (like “Undergraduate Advising for the College of Engineering”) and say something like: “Hi, I’m an admitted student planning to major in ____. Are there any scholarships or opportunities I should be aware of at this point in the year?” Most departments appreciate the initiative and will point them in the right direction—or at least put them on their radar.
📄 Compare Offers: Download our side-by-side College Offer Comparison Sheet to help track award amounts, tuition offsets, and bottom-line costs.
Ohio State doesn’t hand out full rides easily—but if your kid has strong academics, test scores, and a solid early application, they’ve got a real shot at bringing the cost way down. And even if they don’t hit the top tier, there are plenty of smaller awards that can chip away at the price. Just don’t miss that November 1 deadline—most of the good stuff depends on it.
🎒 Want to stay on track? Download the full College Prep Starter Kit — made for parents like you.