Everything you need to know about Franklin University.
Columbus, Ohio’s Franklin University is a non-profit private institution offering flexible educational formats and strong support services to adult and transfer students through its career-focused instructional delivery method. The university was created specifically to serve working professionals and offers undergraduate and graduate levels in all disciplines where academic education can be related to practical application.
Students at Franklin University Columbus come from all over the United States and many other countries, including those interested in accelerated degrees, online educational formats, and courses developed to meet both industry needs and student demand. Students should be aware of the university’s requirements for admission and university life in Columbus before applying in 2026.
The factors that contribute to Franklin being a well-known university in Ohio are the graduates' employability, coursework, class size, and flexible scheduling. The Franklin University courses consist of business, accounting, IT, cybersecurity, data analytics, healthcare management, and public administration, among others. If you know about the university’s acceptance rate, tuition fees, and scholarships, the application process will be much more straightforward.
The Franklin University admissions process reflects its commitment to providing quality education. The university has rolling admissions, which allows students to apply year-round for admission to their choice of start dates instead of requiring applicants to abide by a single application date.
Selection of applicants for admission to Franklin University is somewhat selective, with an estimated acceptance range of 85%-90%. Although a student's academic history and prior academic work will be used to determine if that student qualifies for admission, the majority of admission selection decisions are also based on the student’s level of educational and/or vocational experience, rather than only on standardized testing scores. The cost of admission to the University for the 2026 academic year will differ based on the degree type and/or content, number of attempted credits, and delivery method (i.e., either on campus or online). The estimated fees for Franklin University will be approximately $9,500-$14,000 (not including books and supplies) for the 2026 academic year.
| Admission Year | Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 87% to 90% |
| 2025 | 88% to 91% |
| 2024 | 89% to 92% |
| 2023 | 88% to 91% |
| 2022 | 87% to 90% |
The data show a stable admissions trend over recent years. All applicants who satisfy the Franklin University requirements, provide completed documentation, and submit their application early will normally have a smooth admissions outcome. Although the university has open-entry standards for most academic programs, some academic programs, such as business analytics, IT, and healthcare management, have more rigorous prerequisites for those programs.
The ranking of the university essentially shows its specialized positioning instead of the traditional research-focused league tables. Even though Franklin is not likely to be competitive in the global rankings mostly dominated by large research universities, it constantly gets credit for the quality of its online education, support for adult learners, and programs aimed at career development. On the national scale, Franklin University is regularly featured among:
One of the most common themes in the Franklin University reviews is the high level of faculty accessibility, the flexible schedule, and the coursework that is practical and relevant to industry needs. Moreover, the school is well known for its dedication to transfer students and military-related customers, which makes it a favored option for non-traditional students not only in Ohio but also in other places.
Meeting the requirements of the university is a straightforward, transparent process for both undergraduate and graduate applicants. Admissions are evaluated holistically, with an emphasis on prior academic performance and readiness for the chosen program.
1. Academic Qualifications
Applicants must have completed a recognized high school diploma or equivalent. Transfer students may submit prior college coursework for credit evaluation.
2. Standardized Tests
SAT or ACT scores are not required for most undergraduate programs.
3. Application Form
Students must complete the Franklin University application, available through the university’s official admissions portal.
4. Academic Transcripts
Official high school or college transcripts are required for evaluation.
5. Program-Specific Criteria
Some majors may require foundational coursework or minimum GPA thresholds.
1. Bachelor’s Degree
A recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required.
2. Academic Background
Degrees should be relevant to the chosen program, particularly for IT, data analytics, accounting, and healthcare management programs.
3. Statement of Purpose
Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining academic objectives and career goals.
4. Work Experience (If Applicable)
Professional experience is preferred for select graduate programs, but not mandatory.
5. GMAT or GRE
Not required for most programs.
A. English Language Proficiency
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 to 6.5 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | 79 to 85 |
| PTE Academic | 53 to 58 |
Exact score requirements vary by program, with higher thresholds typically required for business, communications, and graduate-level study.
B. Visa and Immigration Documents
International students must obtain an F-1 Student Visa. Once admitted, Franklin University issues the required Form I-20, allowing students to proceed with visa applications.
C. Academic Transcripts and Evaluations
All academic documents must be submitted in English or with certified translations. Credential evaluations may be required depending on the country of education.
D. Scholarships and Financial Aid
Franklin University scholarships include merit-based awards, transfer student grants, and program-specific funding. International students may also explore external funding options to reduce tuition costs.
Step 1: Choose your program and review entry requirements
Step 2: Submit the application
Step 3: Upload supporting documents
| Documents | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Transcripts | Required | Required |
| English Language Test | If applicable | If applicable |
| Personal Statement | Required | Required |
| References | Not required | Program-specific |
Step 4: Pay application fee (if applicable)
Step 5: Track application status
Step 6: Accept the offer and prepare for enrollment
1. Apply early to secure preferred start dates
2. Submit complete and accurate transcripts
3. Write a focused personal statement aligned with your program
4. Highlight professional experience where relevant
5. Maintain consistent academic performance
Securing apartments near the university is an essential part of student planning. While Franklin University does not offer extensive on-campus housing, students benefit from a wide range of student housing in Columbus, Ohio. Popular off-campus housing near the university includes:
1. 250 High
2. Lane Lofts
3. Birch Creek Flats
4. Buckstone Flats
5. Graham Park at The Highlands
Students searching for Ohio student housing should consider proximity to campus, access to public transportation, rent range, and lease flexibility. Early booking is recommended due to high demand during peak enrollment periods. Understanding everyday expenses is also important, and students may find it helpful to review the cost of living in the USA before finalizing accommodation plans.
The university's notable alumni include professionals across business, finance, IT, public administration, and healthcare sectors. Many graduates hold leadership roles in regional and national organizations, reflecting the university’s focus on career advancement and applied education.
International students must meet academic eligibility criteria, demonstrate English language proficiency, and obtain an F-1 visa using the Form I-20 issued by the university.
Yes, the university is prestigious and has an estimated acceptance rate of 85% to 90%, making it accessible to students who meet basic academic requirements.
Tuition typically ranges from $9,500 to $14,000 per year, depending on program level and credit load.
Yes. Franklin University is well known for flexible schedules, online programs, and career-focused curricula designed for working adults.
Yes. The university offers strong academic support, flexible learning formats, and affordable tuition compared to many US institutions, making it a practical choice for international students.