According to U.S. News, Ohio State University is considered a more selective school. The Ohio State admissions rate is 61% for regular decision applicants and 66.6% for early action applicants. Fifty percent of students admitted to Ohio State applied with an SAT score between 1310-1480 or an ACT score between 28-32. While Ohio State adopted a test optional policy for some years following the pandemic, students are required to submit standardized test scores as of the 2026 admissions cycle.
Want to learn more about acceptance rates? Check out our expert guide!
The OSU regular decision application deadline is January 15. For those applying early action, the deadline is November 1st. Although not required, Ohio State Admissions recommends all prospective students applying for the Morrill Scholarship Program (MSP), Honors and Scholars Programs, or majors in the College of Engineering to apply by the November 1st deadline.
Along with their application, students applying for need-based financial aid must file the FAFSA. In order to receive maximum aid consideration, applicants must file their FAFSA by Ohio State’s priority date, February 1st. However, applicants who submit the FAFSA after the priority date will still be considered for financial aid.
Ohio State Admissions is looking for students who embody OSU’s values. They are looking for students who are prepared for the academic rigor of the classroom, who are leaders and collaborators, who will foster diversity on campus, and who will use every opportunity available to thrive at OSU.
All applications are evaluated holistically, meaning Ohio State Admissions will consider every aspect of your application during the admissions process. Your academic achievements, talents, personal interests, and accomplishments will all contribute to your admissions decision. This means Ohio State Admissions will not only review your GPA, college courses, standardized test scores, and extracurriculars but will also take into account your background and your ability to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community.













