Dreaming of becoming a Buckeye? Ohio State University (OSU) offers top-tier education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and an exciting campus life. With a 51% acceptance rate, OSU is moderately competitive, so you'll need solid grades and a strong application to stand out! Factors such as SAT Exam /ACT scores, GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements are all considered in its holistic admissions process. OSU's test-optional, so you don't have to submit SAT scores(1290–1440) or ACT Exam scores (27–32), but if you do, your application may be stronger. Your GPA will matter for your application, you should try to keep your GPA as high as you can.

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Did You Know? Interesting Facts About Ohio State University!

🔹 Top Public University – OSU is ranked among the best public universities in the U.S. for academic excellence and research.

🔹 Home to the Buckeyes – The Ohio State Buckeyes football team is a powerhouse in college sports, with multiple national championships.

🔹 Massive Campus – OSU’s main campus in Columbus is one of the largest in the U.S., covering 1,665 acres.

🔹 Alumni Network – OSU has a large and strong alumni network, comprising astronauts, Fortune 500 CEOs, and government leaders.

🔹 Cutting-Edge Research – The university is known for breakthrough research in engineering, medicine, and technology.

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Ohio State University Admission Requirements

Ohio State University looks for candidates with strong academic records, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. The university welcomes diverse applicants, considering a holistic approach that values both academic and personal achievements.

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If you have a strong SAT score, ACT score, and GPA, you’ll have a solid shot at getting into Ohio State University, especially since admissions can be pretty competitive. But it’s not just about the numbers—OSU looks at the whole application. They want students who show leadership, are involved in extracurriculars, and are truly passionate about their chosen field of study. While good grades and test scores help, OSU also values well-rounded applicants who bring something unique to the table!

Ohio State University SAT Score Requirements

Ohio State University considers SAT scores as an important factor in admissions. Though the university follows a test-optional policy, a good SAT score can showcase a student’s academic potential.

Average SAT Scores for OSU Admitted Students

Wondering what SAT score you need for Ohio State? While they look at more than just test scores, a solid SAT score can definitely give your application a boost. Most admitted students land between 1290 and 1440—so aim high to stay competitive!

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Ohio State University SAT Score Distribution

When it comes to SAT scores, Ohio State takes a well-rounded approach, but having a strong score definitely helps. Most admitted students fall within a competitive range, with higher scores boosting your chances. Here’s how the SAT score distribution breaks down:

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Ohio State University Schools That Consider SAT Scores

While Ohio State University follows a holistic admissions process, many of its schools and programs consider SAT scores as part of their evaluation. A strong SAT score can give you an edge, especially for competitive programs like engineering, business, and health sciences. Here are some of the OSU schools that take SAT scores into account:

• College of Engineering
• Fisher College of Business
• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Medicine (for select undergraduate pathways)
• College of Public Health
• College of Education and Human Ecology
• College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
• College of Nursing
• College of Pharmacy

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Ohio State University ACT Score Requirements

OSU applicants with ACT scores between 27–32 are considered competitive. Though there’s no minimum score, students with higher ACT scores have a better chance of admission. OSU also superscores the ACT, meaning it considers the highest section scores across multiple test attempts.

Average Ohio State University ACT Score for Admitted Students

When it comes to ACT scores, Ohio State looks for competitive applicants. While there’s no strict cutoff, most admitted students score between 27 and 32. A good ACT score

boosts your chances, but OSU also values extracurriculars, leadership, and personal achievements in their holistic review.

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Does The Ohio State University Superscores the SAT & ACT Exam?

Starting with the 2026 class admission cycle, The Ohio State University will implement a superscoring strategy on both the SAT and ACT. If you take the test more than once, Ohio State will use your highest overall section score from all test dates to construct a new, composite "superscore." This provides applicants a wonderful chance to present their best academic performance, even if their top scores are from different test sessions.

• Along with superscoring, Ohio State will also reinstate standardized test requirements for first-year applicants beginning in 2026. 

• So, regardless of whether you opt to submit the SAT or ACT, you'll be required to submit test scores with your application. 

• These modifications are designed to provide students with a level playing field while continuing to assess candidates through a competitive and balanced admissions process.

Ohio State University GPA Requirements

Ohio State doesn’t have a strict GPA requirement, but let’s be real—a strong GPA can give your application a serious boost. Most admitted students have at least a 3.4, with the most competitive applicants hitting 4.0 or higher. 

But don’t stress if your GPA isn’t perfect! OSU takes a holistic approach, meaning they also look at your extracurriculars, leadership roles, personal statement, and test scores (if you submit them). So, while good grades help, a well-rounded application can make a big difference!

Ohio State University Average GPA For Admitted Students

Ohio State University looks for students with strong academic performance, but there’s no strict GPA cutoff. Most admitted students have a GPA above 3.4, with top applicants reaching 4.0+. A solid GPA helps, but extracurriculars and essays also play a big role!

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Ohio State University Acceptance Rate

Ohio State University has an acceptance rate of 51%, making it a moderately selective university. Each year, thousands of students apply, but only those with strong academic and extracurricular records gain admission.

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Ohio State University Scholarships

OSU provides various scholarships to support students financially. These scholarships are merit-based, need-based, and athletic scholarships, making education more affordable.

Notable Scholarships at OSU

🎓 Eminence Fellows Program – Full-ride scholarship for top academic performers.
🎓 Morrill Scholarship Program – For students committed to diversity and inclusion.
🎓 National Buckeye Scholarship – For out-of-state students with high academic achievements.
🎓 Land Grant Opportunity Scholarship – Covers full in-state tuition for Ohio residents.
🎓 Honors and Scholars Program Scholarships – Available for students in OSU’s honors programs.

Conclusion

Ohio State University requires very high academic standards: one needs to have competitive GPAs and good marks in SAT and ACT. Well-rounded applications will also gain more points. While OSU looks beyond numbers, it appreciates leadership, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements. A good application that outlines your strengths and aspirations will improve your chances of becoming a Buckeye.

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.

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