If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering if your kid has what it takes to get into The Ohio State University. You’ve come to the right place: we’re going to answer all your admissions questions and more. But first, let’s learn what makes Ohio State University an unlikely contender in the elite college admissions game. 

About The Ohio State University

With over 46,000 undergraduates, Ohio State University is one of the largest schools in the nation. Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State is ranked #41 in national universities by US News & World Report. 

Ohio State University has an acceptance rate of 61%, meaning it’s not exactly competitive. But it’s a great choice for students who want a large, social campus with rigorous academics and ample research opportunities. 

Ohio State University Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Ohio State University and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Ohio State University admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Ohio State?

Unfortunately, Ohio State University doesn’t release GPA breakdown statistics in any of their Common Data Sets. They do, however, give us a glimpse at something that might be helpful when considering GPA: the class rank of accepted and enrolled students. We can use these numbers to get an idea of where students stood when they submitted their applications to Ohio State University, even though, again, we firmly believe that class rank is an outdated metric (and it’s one that certainly doesn’t serve high schools or their students).

Ohio State University Class of 2028 Class Rank

From Ohio State University’s 2024-2025 Common Data Set:

Assessment	Percent
Percent in top tenth of high school graduating class	64%
Percent in top quarter of high school graduating class	95%
Percent in top half of high school graduating class	99%
Percent in bottom half of high school graduating class	1%

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into Ohio State University?

The average SAT score for Ohio State University Class of 2028 was a 1360, and the average ACT score was a 29. Ohio State is not a test-optional school. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Ohio State?

While Ohio State does not explicitly state any minimum high school course preparation for applicants, we at Ivy Coach know that colleges want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Ohio State Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: highly selective colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Ohio State University is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Ohio State University would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

Ohio State University Application Requirements

Ohio State University accepts The Common Application. They ask for a school counselor recommendation. 

Does Ohio State Require An Interview? 

No, Ohio State University does not require an interview, nor do they offer one. 

What Are Ohio State University’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Action applications to Ohio State are due November 1st. Regular Decision applications are due January 15th. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Ohio State University 

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Ohio State University, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Ohio State University, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.