The Ohio State University is one of the largest and most comprehensive public research universities in the United States, located in Columbus, Ohio. It is recognized for its massive research output, the Fisher College of Business, and the Wexner Medical Center, one of the nation's top academic medical facilities.
Mascot: Buckeye
Notable Alumni
Jesse Owens (Olympic track and field legend)•Jack Nicklaus (greatest golfer of all time)•R.L. Stine (author of Goosebumps)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Ohio State's social life is driven by its sheer scale (60,000+ students) and football obsession rather than Greek life — only about 10% go Greek, but game days in the Horseshoe with over 100,000 fans and High Street's bar scene create a party atmosphere that doesn't need fraternities. Academic pressure varies wildly by college: Fisher and engineering are demanding, while many other programs leave plenty of bandwidth for social life. Columbus is a legitimately great city that gives OSU students access to culture most Big Ten towns can't match.
The Oval is a pleasant central green, and Mirror Lake provides a scenic spot. The massive campus has a wide range of architectural styles that lack cohesion, though recent renovations have improved key areas.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
OSU has a large campus police department and saw decreases in most on-campus crimes in 2024. The university expanded its joint patrol program with Columbus Police.
The University District and High Street corridor have experienced shootings and violent incidents. Students should exercise caution in off-campus areas, particularly late at night near bars.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Regular weekday visits (new dates posted at the beginning of each month)
Duration: 90 minutes
Walking tour starts and ends at the Undergraduate Admissions Welcome Center on the 3rd floor of the Ohio Union (1739 N High St). Tour stops include a classroom, residence hall, dining location, academic advising office, RPAC (rec center), and Thompson Library. Register for campus tour and online events available.
Book a TourSelf-guided virtual tour available to explore popular spots across the Columbus campus with campus history and traditions. No reservation needed for self-guided visits.
Tour ResourcesVisit during a fall football Saturday (September-November) for the full Ohio State experience — Buckeye game days are legendary, especially Michigan week. Late April through May is ideal for academics and pleasant weather on the Oval. Avoid January-February (cold Ohio winters) and late December (winter break).
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is about 10 miles east of campus (~15-20 min drive). For campus visits, park in the Union South Garage next to the Ohio Union ($11.25 reduced rate for official visit attendees). CampusParc manages all campus parking — use the ParkMobile app to pay. The COTA bus system serves campus from across Columbus.
Location
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