Hi, I'm a junior dreaming of going to Ohio State University. It's pretty early, but I'm trying to make sure I meet all their admissions requirements. Could anyone who's familiar with their admissions process shed some light on what they really look for in their applicants, academically and otherwise?
Ohio State University is one of the leading public universities in the United States and offers a wide range of opportunities for its students, both academically and in extracurricular activities.
In terms of academic expectations, Ohio State uses a holistic review process when considering applications, meaning they look at all aspects of your application, not just your grades.
However, they still prioritize your academic achievements. A key component in your application will be your high school curriculum and your academic performance. You should aim to excel in a rigorous course load, especially in advanced level courses such as AP, IB, or dual enrollment classes. Typically, the average unweighted GPA for students admitted to Ohio State is around 3.8.
Ohio State is also test-optional for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. If you feel your test scores accurately represent your abilities and strengthen your application, you can submit them. In 2023, the middle 50% range for the ACT was 28-33 and the middle 50% range for the SAT was 1340-1490.
Beyond your academic profile, Ohio State reviews your involvement outside the classroom. They appreciate students who demonstrate leadership and active participation in extracurricular activities. These activities could be school clubs, sports, community service, or any other pursuits that demonstrate your interests and commitment.
Last but not the least, make sure you spend time on your personal essays. They offer an opportunity to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. You can bring out your unique perspective, demonstrate your interest in Ohio State, and show what you're eager to contribute to campus life.
Good luck with your preparations!
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