Ohio State University Merit-Based Scholarships

Name: Ohio State University Merit-Based Scholarships

Award Amount: Varies

Information And Eligibility:
Ohio State University offers a highly competitive range of merit-based scholarships designed to recognize exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and outstanding accomplishments among incoming first-year students. These awards are given to high-performing high school seniors who submit their application for admission by the university’s Early Action deadline. Scholarships vary widely in value, with some providing partial tuition support and others offering substantial financial assistance that can significantly reduce the cost of attending Ohio State.

OSU’s merit awards take into consideration a variety of factors, including strong academic records, rigorous coursework, class rank, leadership in school or community organizations, unique achievements, and in many cases, demonstrated commitment to service or extracurricular excellence. Some of the most competitive scholarships—such as the Maximus, Provost, Trustees, National Buckeye, and Eminence Fellows awards—may include additional application steps, interviews, or selection events, but most general merit awards are automatically considered when students apply by the required deadline.

Because OSU attracts a large applicant pool, the merit scholarship process is selective. Students with high GPAs, strong standardized test scores (if submitted), demonstrated leadership, and meaningful involvement often stand out. While awards vary in size, they are intended to help reduce the financial burden of college and reward students who have excelled academically through high school.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an incoming first-year student applying for undergraduate admission.
• Must submit a complete application for admission by the November 1 Early Action deadline to be automatically considered for most merit scholarships.
• Strong academic performance in high school (rigorous coursework and competitive GPA).
• Demonstrated leadership, involvement in school or community activities, or notable achievements.
• Some scholarships may require U.S. residency or additional documentation, depending on the award.

Application Requirements:

• Submit the Common Application or Coalition Application to Ohio State University by the Early Action deadline.
• Provide official high school transcripts and any required supporting academic materials.
• Optional: submit ACT or SAT scores (if available), as some merit awards may consider test results.
• Complete any additional steps required for specific competitive scholarships, if invited (e.g., essays, interviews).

Additional Details:

• Most merit scholarships require no separate application—students are considered automatically upon applying for admission.
• Ohio State offers both in-state and out-of-state merit awards, some of which may significantly reduce tuition for non-resident students.
• A limited number of premier scholarships, such as the Eminence Fellows Program, require additional application materials and selection processes.
• Scholarship availability and award amounts may vary each year based on funding and applicant competitiveness.

Deadline: November 1 (Early Action deadline for scholarship consideration)

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