A Complete Guide to Ohio State University
Reach the stars with Ohio State University!
Table of Content
- How to Ace Ohio State University Admissions
- Key Highlights:
- Ohio State University Courses
- 1. Undergraduate Programs
- 2. Postgraduate Programs
- Admission Requirements
- Required Documents
- Key Deadlines
- The Ohio State University Application
- Application Steps:
- Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
- Career Opportunities for OSU Students
- Ohio State University Campus Life
- Key Facilities:
- Student Housing Near Ohio State University Columbus OH
Ranked 208 among top public research universities in the United States, the Ohio State University (OSU) is an academic hub prioritising education, research, and development. It is located in Columbus, Ohio. The courses range from medicine to liberal arts and social work, thus making the Ohio State University one of the best institutions for academia and research.
Apart from checking all the academia-related boxes, Ohio State Uni also offers great student accommodations. Read on to know all about the university’s courses, rankings, campus life, and more.
How to Ace Ohio State University Admissions
The Ohio State University was founded in 1870. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive r1 doctoral universities, with over 60,000 domestic and international students enrolled across its campuses. It boasts a rich cultural and academic hub for students from all over the world.
OSU offers over 200 undergraduate majors and has more than a dozen colleges, including the Fisher College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the College of Medicine. OSU has one of the largest study abroad programs and is a top-tier public research university, designated among r1 doctoral universities.
The Ohio State Buckeyes compete in the Big Ten Conference. The land grant university is especially famous for its football team, which plays at Ohio Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in the US. OSU boasts famous alumni like Jesse Owens (Olympic gold medalist), Jack Nicklaus (legendary golfer), and R.L. Stine (author of Goosebumps).
Key Highlights:
Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Columbus, Ohio |
QS World Ranking | 208 |
Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 19:1 |
Acceptance Rate | 52.7% |
International Students | 6,000+ from over 100 countries |
Ohio State University Courses
The Ohio State University Columbus, is highly regarded for its academic bandwidth. From undergraduate to doctoral programs, the university delivers top-tier education across various disciplines. Here are some of the most sought-after courses:
1. Undergraduate Programs
The Ohio State University Columbus offers a bunch of great undergrad programs that help students learn real skills and get ready for the future.
Program | Duration |
|---|---|
BSc in Computer Science & Engineering | 4 years |
BA in Psychology | 4 years |
BBA in Finance | 4 years |
BS in Nursing | 4 years |
BA in Political Science | 4 years |
2. Postgraduate Programs
For postgraduate students, The Ohio State University offers top programs that focus on research, new ideas, and building strong leaders in different fields.
Program | Duration |
|---|---|
MSc in Computer Science & Engineering | 2 years |
MA in Psychology | 2 years |
MBA in Finance | 2 years |
MS in Nursing | 2 years |
MA in Political Science | 2 years |
Admission Requirements
Getting into The Ohio State University means meeting a few important admission requirements. These help the university pick students who are ready to succeed on campus.
Required Documents
Key Deadlines
Early Action: November
Regular Decision: January
Financial Aid Priority: February
Acceptance Fee Deadline: May
(Note: First-year summer term applications are not accepted.)
The Ohio State University Application
OSU is constantly on the lookout for bright minds like you. OSU can be a great place for you to grow. Here’s how you can apply and shape your future for the better:
Application Steps:
Step 1: Choose your program and review specific requirements.
Step 2: Submit the Common Application or the university’s online application.
Step 3: Pay the non-refundable application fee (around USD 70 for undergrads).
Step 4: Submit academic transcripts, standardised test scores (SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT), and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
Step 5: Write a personal essay and gather letters of recommendation if required.
The application deadlines are typically:
November 1st (Early Action)
February 1st (Regular Decision)
It’s advisable to start preparing at least 6–8 months in advance to ensure a smooth submission process.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
Living in Columbus, OH, is relatively affordable compared to other major U.S. cities. Here’s a breakdown of expected costs:
Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
Tuition (Annual) | USD 35,000 – USD 40,000 |
Rent (Off-Campus) | USD 600 – USD 1,200 |
Food & Groceries | USD 250 – USD 400 |
Transportation | USD 50 – USD 100 |
Health Insurance | USD 100 – USD 150 |
Miscellaneous | USD 100 – USD 200 |
Scholarships and assistantships are available for meritorious students, particularly at the graduate level.
Career Opportunities for OSU Students
The State University of Ohio offers a variety of career opportunities for students to gain real-world experience. From on-campus jobs to internships, there are plenty of ways to build your career in the Ohio State.
Find jobs on Handshake: Go to handshake.osu.edu, log in with your lastname.#@osu.edu, and use the “On-Campus” filter to find student jobs.
Use Workday: Current students can log into Workday to view and apply for open positions.
Search by department: Visit department websites, email them, or stop by their offices to ask about job openings.
The university also hosts regular career fairs and networking events, helping students land internships and full-time roles with competitive salaries.
Ohio State University Campus Life
Life at The Ohio State University Columbus OH is a unique blend of tradition, diversity, and community. The 1,600-acre campus is a small city in itself, complete with cafes like Panera Bread, Berry Café, and Starbucks. Various recreation centres like libraries and theatres are also prominent.
Key Facilities:
The Ohio State University Library System: One of the largest academic library systems in North America, the Ohio State University Library provides access to millions of books, journals, and digital resources.
Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC): Offers gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes.
Student Union: A buzzing centre for clubs, events, and campus organisations.
Dining Options: A variety of food courts like RPAC (Courtside Cafe), Sloopy’s Cafe, and Scott Dining Hall offer everything from American to international cuisine.
Student Housing Near Ohio State University Columbus OH
From world-class academics to vibrant student life and renowned institutions like the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Columbus OH, there’s no doubt that The Ohio State University stands out as a top-tier choice for aspiring students. Once you’ve decided to apply to the Ohio State University, the next step is finding a place that feels like home.
With a wide selection of verified off-campus student housing near Ohio State University and end-to-end booking support, amber makes finding a home seamless, so you can focus on making the most of your college experience. Each property listed is verified for quality and reliability, so there are no surprises when you arrive. Here’s a list of properties for you to explore:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is on-campus housing guaranteed for first-year international students?
Yes, it is! Ohio State guarantees on-campus housing for all first-year students, including international applicants, as long as you meet the housing contract deadlines. Living on campus makes it easier to get settled, meet new people, and access university resources right from the start.
Are international students required to have university health insurance?
Yes, international students are automatically enrolled in Ohio State’s Student Health Insurance Plan every term. This plan covers a wide range of medical services and is important for staying compliant with visa requirements. If you already have comparable coverage, you can apply for a waiver, but most students stick with the university’s plan for convenience and peace of mind.
How can I track my application after submitting it?
Once you submit your application through the Common App, you’ll get an email with login details for the Ohio State Applicant Center. That’s where you can keep tabs on your application status, check for any missing documents, and view your admission decision when it’s ready.
Does Ohio State help new international students with arrival and orientation?
While the university doesn’t offer airport pickup, it does run a fantastic orientation program for international students. You’ll get help with immigration check-ins, tips on adjusting to life in the U.S., and plenty of chances to meet other new students. It’s a great way to feel more at home before classes begin.
What kind of support is available to help international students settle in?
Ohio State goes the extra mile to support international students. The Office of International Affairs runs cultural events, peer programs like Conversation Partners, and weekly gatherings like Global Engagement Nights. These are all designed to help you make friends, get involved, and feel part of the campus community.