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5 min read·Jul 14, 2025·Last updated on Dec 10, 2025

University of Oklahoma: Admissions, Tuition, Campus Life & Scholarships

If you desire a university with great academics, school spirit, and a fun student experience, then the University of Oklahoma may be just what you are looking for. For over a century, this public research-based university has been a strong contributor to shaping futures in this college town since 1890.

Whether you are wondering what the Sooner pride is all about, or would like to see the Long list of University of Oklahoma majors, we have a lot to talk about. Here, you'll find all there is to know about the University of Oklahoma admissions and tuition, and shared experiences on what campus life is actually like on the University of Oklahoma campus (OU). Consider this your one-stop student guide to everything OU!

University of Oklahoma Campus and Location

The campus community at the University of Oklahoma is what most would envision as a quintessential campus experience. The campus is walkable, lively, and has a distinct personality, all while located in Normand, Oklahoma. The campus has historic character and modern conveniences. There are impressive red brick buildings, green open spaces, bustling coffee shops, and gathering spots such as the South Oval for students to hang out between classes. Whether it is your journey to class, student org meeting, or simply lounging under a tree with a cup of coffee in your hand, campus life has its own feel to it—inviting, and where it's always happening. 

What makes campus life even better? The wonderful world that exists around Norman, Oklahoma. This true college town embraces a relaxed, affordable, and student-friendly environment, yet is just a quick drive to Oklahoma City, where you can enjoy weekend trips, concerts, and internships. With engaging events, active traditions, and something always happening on campus, the University of Oklahoma campus community is about more than academics, feeling like part of something bigger upon your arrival.

University of Oklahoma Ranking

The University of Oklahoma ranking highlights its solid and sustainable academic reputation both nationally and globally. The university is known for its combination of academic excellence and student-centered focus, and it consistently gets recognized across different categories, whether for its quality, value, or student experience.

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Ranking CategorySourceRank/Recognition
National UniversitiesU.S. News & World Report (2025)#132 (tie)
Top Public SchoolsU.S. News & World Report#68
Best Value SchoolsU.S. News & World Report#194
Best Undergraduate Engineering ProgramsU.S. News & World Report#98 (tie)
Best Colleges for VeteransU.S. News & World Report#89 (tie)
Online Bachelor’s ProgramsU.S. News & World Report#16
Global University RankingQS World University Rankings (2025)#701–710
World University RankingsTimes Higher Education601–800 range
Research ClassificationCarnegie ClassificationDoctoral University – Very High Research Activity

The University of Oklahoma's dedication to academic excellence, significant research, and practical results for students is reflected in its ongoing rise in rankings.

University of Oklahoma Majors and Courses

As varied as its student body, the University of Oklahoma offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs that aim to pique students' interest, develop their abilities, and get them ready for the workforce. Every program at the University of Oklahoma combines academic rigor with real-world application, whether you're preparing for the business world, delving into the sciences, or studying the humanities.

More than 170 majors are available to students at a number of reputable universities, each with a unique teaching methodology. The programs are designed to assist students in transforming classroom knowledge into experience that is prepared for the workforce, from practical research to industry partnerships.

University of Oklahoma Undergraduate Degrees

Here’s a look at the colleges and some of the standout majors they offer:

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CollegeSample Programs Offered
College of Arts and SciencesPsychology, Biology, History, Sociology
Gallogly College of EngineeringMechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science
Price College of BusinessAccounting, Finance, Marketing, Management
College of Atmospheric and Geographic SciencesMeteorology, Environmental Sustainability
Jeannine Rainbolt College of EducationEarly Childhood Education, Special Education, Secondary Education
Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine ArtsMusical Theatre, Dance, Visual Arts
College of Journalism and Mass CommunicationAdvertising, Public Relations, Broadcast Journalism
College of Earth and EnergyPetroleum Engineering, Geosciences

At the University of Oklahoma, every major is intended to provide more than just coursework. Employers value the practical experience that students acquire through study abroad programs, internships, undergraduate research, and group projects.

University of Oklahoma Admissions Process

Considering applying to the University of Oklahoma? Knowing the University of Oklahoma admissions procedure will help you confidently navigate your next steps, regardless of whether you're a transfer student, high school senior, or international applicant. For the convenience of both students and families, the university provides a simplified, clear admissions procedure.

Program Level & Exams Required

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Program LevelExam Requirement
UndergraduateSAT or ACT (Test-Optional)
Graduate (Business, Others)GRE or GMAT (Varies by Program)
Law SchoolLSAT
International StudentsTOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test

University of Oklahoma Eligibility Criteria

Admission criteria vary by program, but here’s what most undergraduate applicants will need:

  • A high school diploma or its equivalent

  • A solid academic record (a competitive GPA is usually 3.0 or higher)

  • Most programs do not require SAT or ACT scores.

  • A statement of purpose or personal essay

  • Recommendation letters are optional but advised.

For graduate and professional programs, eligibility usually includes:

  • A bachelor's degree from a school with accreditation

  • Competitive GMAT or GRE scores (if program-required)

  • Official transcripts of academic work

  • Work, research, or professional experience that is pertinent (for specific programs)

Additionally, the University of Oklahoma evaluates applicants holistically, taking into account their leadership positions, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal accomplishments.

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University of Oklahoma Application Timeline and Deadlines

While some programs operate on a rolling basis, these are the key deadlines to keep in mind:

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Application TypeDeadline
Early ActionNovember 1
Priority Scholarship DeadlineDecember 15
Regular DecisionFebruary 1
Transfer StudentsRolling, with Fall priority by June 1
Graduate ProgramsVaries by department

Your chances of being admitted and receiving merit-based scholarships are increased if you apply early, particularly for competitive programs.

University of Oklahoma Required Documents

Before submitting your application, be sure to gather the following materials:

  • Official high school transcripts (or college transcripts for transfers/grad students)

  • Standardized test scores (if you choose to include them)

  • Letters of recommendation (optional but helpful)

  • A personal statement or essay

  • Proof of English language proficiency (for international students)

  • Resume or portfolio (for some graduate programs)

University of Oklahoma Tuition, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

Since attending college is a significant financial commitment, the University of Oklahoma makes every effort to ensure that all students can afford it. The university is dedicated to assisting students and families in covering the cost of higher education, offering competitive tuition rates, generous scholarships, and federal aid.

Program Type & Estimated Annual Tuition

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Program TypeEstimated Annual Tuition
Undergraduate (In-State)$13,300
Undergraduate (Out-of-State)$31,200
Graduate Programs (In-State)$9,300–$12,000 (varies by program)
Graduate Programs (Out-of-State)$22,000–$28,000 (varies by program)
Law School (JD)$22,400 (In-State), $33,400 (Out-of-State)
Online Programs$275–$775 per credit hour

University of Oklahoma Tuition Fees Overview

The University of Oklahoma's tuition is determined by the student's field of study, program level, and residency status. This is a condensed summary for the academic year 2024–2025:

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Program TypeAnnual Tuition (Approx.)
Undergraduate (In-State)$13,300
Undergraduate (Out-of-State)$31,200
Graduate (Per Credit Hour)$320–$925
Law (JD Program)$22,400–$33,400

Your overall cost of attendance will include additional expenses for housing, textbooks, and student fees. Although living on campus in Norman is reasonably priced, it's still advisable to set aside money for housing, meals, and personal expenses.

University of Oklahoma Scholarships

The purpose of the University of Oklahoma scholarships program is to honor financial need, leadership, and academic ability. Many awards are taken into account automatically during the admissions process; most don't require an additional application.

  • National Merit Scholarship – Full Tuition plus an associated technology and textbook stipend.

  • Crimson Commitment – Full Tuition and normal fees for Pell Grant eligible students from Oklahoma.

  • President’s Community Scholar – Based on leadership and service.

  • Distinguished Scholar – Competitive merit-based program for top test scores and GPAs.

  • Non-Resident Merit Scholarships – Available to out-of-state students with strong academic qualifications.

Your overall expenses can be greatly reduced by scholarships, some of which are renewable for all four years, provided you make satisfactory academic progress. Alternatively, you can also apply to private scholarships like the AmberScholar Scholarship. This will help you add those extra funds to make your study dreams come true.

University of Oklahoma Financial Aid Options

The University of Oklahoma takes part in numerous federal, state, and institutional aid programs to further assist with affordability. To optimize their eligibility, students are advised to finish the FAFSA as soon as possible.

Types of aid include:

  • Pell Grants from the Federal Government

  • The Promise of Oklahoma (state grant program)

  • Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and Unsubsidized

  • Parental Federal PLUS Loans

  • Departmental aid and university grants

  • Opportunities for work-study

Scholarship Name & Details

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Scholarship NameAmountEligibility
National Merit ScholarshipFull Tuition + StipendsNational Merit Finalists
Crimson CommitmentFull Tuition + Average FeesOklahoma residents, Pell Grant–eligible
Distinguished Scholar$16,000+/yearHigh GPA + ACT/SAT
University of Oklahoma Foundation ScholarshipsVariesBased on donor criteria (need, program, etc.)
Transfer Student Scholarships$2,000–$8,000/yearBased on GPA and credit hours completed

The University of Oklahoma is an affordable option for students from a variety of backgrounds because approximately 90% of undergraduate students receive financial aid of some kind.

Student Housing

The majority of University of Oklahoma students opt to reside on or close to the main campus in Norman, Oklahoma. The university provides a range of housing options, such as traditional dorms, suite-style residences, and apartment-style accommodations, to accommodate various living preferences and price ranges. Convenience, easy access to student support services, and a sense of community are all benefits of living on campus.

Here’s a quick overview of on-campus housing options:

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Housing TypeDescriptionAverage Cost (Per Semester)
Traditional Residence HallShared double rooms with communal bathrooms$3,000–$4,200
Suite-Style LivingPrivate or semi-private rooms with shared common areas$4,500–$5,800
Apartment-Style HousingPrivate apartments with kitchens and living spaces$6,000–$7,200

Living on campus at the University of Oklahoma is a terrific way to meet new people, participate in campus activities, and be close to your classes. There are a number of first-rate off-campus housing options in the area for students who would rather be independent. Callaway House Apartments, which are close to campus and offer fully furnished private and shared apartments with amenities catered to student lifestyles, are a well-liked option.

Notable Alumni

Numerous successful alumni from the University of Oklahoma have had a big influence in business, science, politics, entertainment, and sports. Their accomplishments demonstrate the value of an education from the University of Oklahoma as well as the active community that continues to support students long after they graduate.

Notable alumni include:

  • Blake Griffin, NBA All-Star and philanthropist

  • Shannon Miller, gold medalist at the Olympics and one of the United States' most decorated gymnasts

  • James Garner, award-winning actor best known for the character Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files

  • David Boren, former U.S. Senator and university president

  • Fred Haise, NASA astronaut and Apollo 13 crew member

Many of these former students continue to be involved with the university, providing current students with guidance, internships, and advice. Their experiences are a source of motivation and evidence of what can be accomplished with a University of Oklahoma degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which majors are the most popular at the University of Oklahoma?

Among the most well-known are meteorology, business, journalism, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering.

Is the OU test required for admission?

Indeed, undergraduate candidates have the option of submitting their SAT or ACT results.

What is the cost of tuition at the University of Oklahoma?

Tuition costs about $13,300 per year for in-state students and $31,200 per year for out-of-state students (not including housing).

Which scholarships are available at the University of Oklahoma?

National Merit, Crimson Commitment, Distinguished Scholar, and non-resident merit awards are among the scholarship categories.

How is life on the University of Oklahoma campus?

With more than 550 student organizations, important sporting events, and lively customs, campus life is vibrant and focused on the community.

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