About

About Ohio University-Main Campus

public research universityhigh acceptance ratehealth sciences focuslarge campus community

Ohio University-Main Campus is a public research university in Athens, OH, known for its high acceptance rate, health sciences focus, and large campus community. With an acceptance rate of 87%, OU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 4,441 students each year. OU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1100–1280, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. OU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $8,112 per year; the sticker price of $38,586 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Ohio University-Main Campus acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

87%
Overall Accept Rate
3.50
Typical Admitted GPA
1190
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1100 – 1280 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Ohio University-Main Campus

Demonstrated Interest
Ohio University tracks demonstrated interest, so attend a virtual info session, sign up for emails from admissions, or visit Athens if you can. Even a campus tour logged through their official visit registration system signals genuine commitment.
Essay Strategy
Ohio University's essays carry meaningful weight in their review, so mention specific programs, professors, or opportunities like the Scripps College of Communication or the Voinovich School that connect directly to your goals. Generic enthusiasm for a big state school will not stand out here.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Ohio University-Main Campus actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$39k/yr$15.7k
30k-48k~$39k/yr$15.2k
48k-75k~$39k/yr$19.1k
75k-110k~$39k/yr$23.7k
110k+~$39k/yr$24.5k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

66%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$49k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
16,748
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

82%White
5%Black / African American
5%Hispanic
4%Two or More Races
2%Unknown / Unreported
2%Asian
1%International
0%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender38% Men · 62% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status99% Citizens and Immigrants · 1% International
OU, Athens Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch