Apply to ONU

FRESHMAN ADMISSIONS

Please submit the following application materials:

- Completed University Application or The Common Application

- Official high school transcript(s)

- ACT and/or SAT scores (optional for Fall 2023, see information below) START YOUR APPLICATION

TEST-OPTIONAL FOR FALL 2023

First-year students for Fall 2023 can apply to ONU without ACT or SAT scores. You are still able to submit an ACT or SAT score if you believe the score might add value to your application. Test-optional admission is available for all undergraduate programs.

Ohio Northern will continue to maintain the same high academic standards, and the decision to submit test scores will be left to the student applicant. With the uncertainty in the testing climate, we are aware there may be limited options in testing. A test-optional process aims to support students by assuring them they'll be able to apply for admission with or without ACT or SAT scores.
We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, meaning several factors of an application are evaluated to determine preparation for success at ONU. Those who don't submit test scores will be evaluated using the following: high school grade point average (GPA), grades in dual enrollment coursework, academic rigor, short answer response on the admission application when provided, leadership and service experience.
All applicants admitted to ONU will be considered for merit-based scholarships, regardless of whether test scores are submitted with the application. You can submit a test score if you believe the scores might add value to scholarship or admission consideration. Test scores are required, however, for consideration of the Mathile and Dicke Scholarships.
You will be presented with a question of your intent to apply test-optional on the application for admission.
Yes. Students who initially submit a test-optional application can still submit test scores as a supplement to the application for first-year course placement.
No. All undergraduate programs are available for test-optional admissions.

International Admissions

ONU is a top destination for many international students. Students come from more than 25 different countries to study on our beautiful, safe campus. The University and many of our academic programs are ranked among the best in the country and our region for excellence. U.S. News and World Report's Best Colleges 2022 ranks ONU #3 among the Midwest regional universities. As an international student at ONU, you can earn your degree or decide to spend a shorter time on campus through our exchange program.

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College Credit Plus Admissions

College Credit Plus at ONU provides participating high schools and students with a unique and sustainable way to take advantage of a rigorous curriculum through college-level courses while earning college credit. Ohio Northern offers students the opportunity to attend ONU courses on our campus or to take ONU courses from qualified high school faculty members at participating schools.