Merit and Need-Based Scholarships

Merit and Need-Based Scholarships

The College of Arts and Sciences has 43 merit and need-based scholarships for undergraduates seeking degrees in the Arts and Sciences attending Columbus campus. Most do not require an application to be considered.

Get matched to your eligible scholarships in Scholarship Universe

  1. Answer matching questions
  2. Update your profile and answers each year beginning Dec. 1
  3. Submit applications before the deadline – most Ohio State scholarships have a Feb. 1 priority date
  4. Learn how to use the tool and get tips for success here

You can apply for most Ohio State 2027-2028 scholarships beginning Dec. 1, 2026. However, scholarships are available year-round.

Apply now

Looking for more funding opportunities?

  1. FAFSA
    Complete your FAFSA each year by Feb. 1 for maximum aid consideration. The FAFSA opens Oct. 1. You cannot be considered for any need-based scholarships or grants without a completed FAFSA.
     
  2. Scholarship Universe 
    Answer questions and get matched to scholarships each year at the #1 place to apply for scholarships at Ohio State. The tool also connects you to over 12,000 vetted external scholarships.
     
  3. Student Financial Aid Scholarship Application
    Complete the application in Scholarship Universe each year by Feb. 1. This is the main university-wide scholarship application.
     
  4. Academic Department
    Contact your academic department for other scholarship applications they may have.
     
  5. Local Organizations
    Search local community foundations, nonprofits, parents’ workplaces and members-only organizations for scholarship opportunities, especially those based in your hometown or county.
     
  6. Experiential Awards
    Look for experiential funding opportunities, such as the Second Year Transformational Experience (STEP), Undergraduate Research Scholarship (URS), Career Accelerator Fund (CAF) or global education scholarships.

Additional university resources