The Common Application
First-year applicants to Ohio State's Columbus campus must apply through the Common Application.
About
Ohio State is a member of the Common Application, an application platform offered by nearly 1,000 colleges and universities worldwide.
Applicants may submit the same Common Application to multiple institutions.
Ohio State also requires completion of Ohio State-specific supplemental questions (read about them below).
Create your account
If you haven't done so, create an account for the Common Application. Your email address will become your username and the Common App’s primary method of sending updates and reminders, so make sure you provide an email address you check on a regular basis.
Need help? Read this guide for first-time applicants.
Common Application questions
Writing: Personal essay
Ohio State requires a personal statement essay in response to one of the prompts provided. If you'd like to work on your response before beginning your application, here's a list of this year's essay prompts.
The Common App also provides students with an opportunity to share their experience and the impact of COVID-19 through a dedicated COVID-19 question on the application.
Ohio State-specific questions
General: Preferred admission plan
Select "Early Action" if you are applying for autumn semester and plan to meet our November 1 early action deadline. Otherwise, select "Regular Decision."
General: School-specific fee waivers
International applicants are not eligible for application fee waivers.
Academics: Your planned 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. For visa application purposes, international applicants are required to select a major that will lead to a degree and are not eligible to select an undecided major or a major that is offered by University Exploration.
Academics: Opportunities beyond the undergraduate level
Ohio State offers
pre-professional programs in dentistry, law, medicine, optometry, pharmacy and veterinary medicine. Identifying your pre-professional interest on the application will enable your advisors to provide you with a wide range of support to realize your goals.
Academics: Honors and Scholars Programs
To be considered, we strongly recommend that you meet our November 1 early action deadline. On the application, indicate interest in the University Honors Program or Ohio State Scholars Program.
Application fee
Before submitting your application, you will be asked for a NONREFUNDABLE $70 application fee.
Ready to apply?
Go to the Common Application (opens August 1)
Return to Apply step-by-step.
