Ohio State University-Main Campus campus
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Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public · 45,638 students

Columbus: The Buckeye heart of The Ohio State University, located right in the heart of Ohio.

Acceptance rate

60.6%

SAT (mid 50%)

1310–1480

Avg net price

$17,339

after aid

Next deadline

Nov 1

EA

Testing

Required

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and Ohio State University-Main Campus’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. Ohio State University-Main Campus admitted 60.6% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 13101480 on the SAT and 2832 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Ohio State University-Main Campus actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Solutions for a Changing World

The future is not only what you dream about; it’s what you create.

Ohio State offers a comprehensive array of distinguished academic programs across a wide range of majors, including emerging and high-demand career fields, with 324 degrees and programs available.

  • Aerospace EngineeringMaster of Science, Doctor of Philosophy
  • African American and African StudiesMaster of Arts, Doctor of Philosophy
  • Animal SciencesMaster in Animal Sciences, Master of Science, Doctor of Philosophy

Verified from osu.edu and gpadmissions.osu.edu and undergrad.osu.edu and gpadmissions.osu.edu and gpadmissions.osu.edu and gpadmissions.osu.edu and gpadmissions.osu.edu and online.osu.edu and osu.edu.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
  • Regular decisionJanuary 15, 2027
  • TestingRequired (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations0 letters
  • Personal essayNot required
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from osu.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $30,305, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $17,339.

Ohio State provides affordable, high-quality education and student support, recognizing college as a significant investment for students and their families.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $60,409.

Verified from osu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Campus life

The feel of the place

Take a leap, find your community, and set your path to success, a Tuesday here.

Explore the Columbus campus with the Ohio State app, offering a campus map and real-time bus schedules.

UrbanResearch-focusedCommunity-engaged

Quick answers

Ohio State University-Main Campus FAQ

Is Ohio State University-Main Campus test-optional?
No. For the 2026 application cycle, Ohio State University-Main Campus requires SAT or ACT scores from first-year applicants.
How hard is it to get into Ohio State University-Main Campus?
Very hard. Ohio State University-Main Campus admits 60.6% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1310 to 1480 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the Ohio State University-Main Campus application deadline?
The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes January 15, 2027.
How much does Ohio State University-Main Campus cost?
The list price is about $30,305, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $17,339.
Is Ohio State University-Main Campus worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $60,409 ten years after enrolling, and 88% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Ohio State University-Main Campus.

Spike answers from Ohio State University-Main Campus’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.