Apply step-by-step

Submission of test scores for regional campus applicants is optional but strongly encouraged. Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you take the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.

• Home-schooled applicants must submit an approved “excuse from attendance” verification (or equivalent) provided by a local school district or state official.

• Students who attend an unaccredited high school must have an official ACT, SAT or GED score sent directly from the testing agency.

• Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.

Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2025 applicants. Please read the Testing FAQs.

Is the essay required?

The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.

We strongly encourage you to apply by the deadline, as courses and financial aid are subject to availability. After the deadline, please contact your regional campus directly to schedule an appointment to apply in-person (subject to applicable admission rules and requirements).

Deadlines

This application plus all required materials (STEP 4) make up a complete application.

APPLY HERE: Admission application for regional campus first-years

Application prep

Your planned major

You'll be asked to select a major. To learn more about Ohio State's majors, search Ohio State majors or read Undecided? if you're not sure what to major in.

Application fee and fee waivers

Before submitting your application, you will be asked for a NONREFUNDABLE $60 application fee. Ohio State accepts ACT, SAT and other fee waivers meant to assist applicants with economic need.

Interested in more than one Ohio State campus?

You only need to submit one application even if you wish to be considered for more than one Ohio State campus. Please apply to your first-choice campus only — submitting more than one application will slow down processing time.

Planning to apply for financial aid?

Supply your Social Security Number on your admission application if you plan to file the FAFSA and want Ohio State to receive it, or if you are the child of an Ohio State employee using the Dependent Tuition Assistance program.

These items plus your application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. Any outstanding requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you apply.

Official transcripts

Submitting high school transcripts when applying is optional for most applicants (you’ll submit your final transcript after receiving an admissions decision). However, if you're interested in being considered for merit scholarships, ask your school counselor to send your transcript, including your senior year courses, to Ohio State (electronically, if possible).

Official ACT or SAT scores

Submission of test scores for regional campus applicants is optional for most applicants but strongly encouraged. We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.

Additional test scores

If English is not your native language, submit one of the following scores:

• TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition): 79 or higher

• IELTS or IELTS Indicator: 6.5 or higher
  

• ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
  

• SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test

• Duolingo: 120 or higher

You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, Singapore, the United States or Wales.

Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.