Ohio is known for being the first to break boundaries in higher education, establishing Oberlin College as the first interracial and coeducational college in the U.S. The Buckeye State has continued to encourage and inspire its residents on the importance of a higher education, especially with these scholarships for Ohio residents.
$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Apr 1
Deadline
U.S. high school seniors who have been involved with Becca's Closet are eligible to apply for this award. Students must enroll full time and have an unweighted grade point average of 2.0 or higher.
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$1,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Aug 1
Deadline
The Isaacs & Isaacs Student Scholarship Awards is available for high school seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate students in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio.
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$20,000
Award Amount
4
Awards
Feb 1
Deadline
This scholarship is open to U.S. students who are in their third, fourth, or fifth year of undergraduate study in landscape architecture at a LAAB-accredited institution. Students must be members of ASLA and demonstrate financial need.
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$6,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Feb 1
Deadline
U.S. incoming freshmen who are not residents of Kentucky and demonstrate financial need are eligible for this award. Students must attend Bellarmine University in Kentucky.
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$6,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 15
Deadline
This forgivable loan is for Ohio registered nurses enrolled in approved Ohio post-licensure nurse education programs who intend to serve as nurse faculty after graduation. To qualify for loan cancellation, recipients must be employed as a faculty member instructing licensed practical nursing and/or registered nursing coursework to future nurses in the State of Ohio for a minimum of four years after graduation.
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$2,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This award is for U.S. and International students who are planning to attend Louisiana Tech University as an out-of-state transfer student. Students must have complete at least 12 semester hours of college credit and have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Dec 6
Deadline
Engineering students who have completed one or more terms at Ohio State University are eligible for this award. Students must have a grade point average of 2.0 or higher and have an interest in railway engineering.
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$7,000
Award Amount
4
Awards
Feb 13
Deadline
This scholarship is available for residents of the Miami Valley region of Ohio who self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or as a straight ally. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to and advocacy for LGBT causes, and must enroll in an accredited institution of higher education during the semester following application.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 11
Deadline
Ohio students who are enrolled full time and entering their junior year of undergraduate study at an Ohio college or university are eligible for this award. Students must major in a field of study related to accounting, finance, budgeting, or other similar area.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 11
Deadline
Ohio GFOA members who have been employed in a government position for two or more years and are working toward a bachelors degree or higher in accounting, finance, budgeting, or related field at an Ohio college or university are eligible for this award.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of an eligible Midwestern state. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
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$3,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This scholarship is for international and U.S. students who are in their final year of full-time undergraduate study in landscape architecture at a LAAB-accredited institution. Applicants must show a proven contribution to the design of public spaces that integrates landscape design and the use of amenities to promote social interaction.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This scholarship is open to international and U.S. students who are in their final two years of undergraduate study or are in graduate programs at a LAAB-accredited institution. Students must be studying landscape architecture with a demonstrated interest and aptitude in the design of play environments.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 4
Deadline
The Thomas W. Porter, W8KYZ, Scholarship Honoring Michael Daugherty, W8LSE is open to international and U.S. licensed radio amateurs (technician class or higher) who attend accredited two- and four-year colleges, universities, and trade schools. Students must be residents of Ohio or West Virginia.
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$750
Award Amount
1
Award
Jan 4
Deadline
The Zachary Taylor Stevens Scholarship is open to international and U.S. students who are licensed radio amateurs (technician class or higher) attending two- and four-year colleges, universities, and trade schools. Students must reside in the "8" call area (MI, OH WV).
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$600
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This scholarship is open to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Ohio. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 to 3.4.
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$750
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This scholarship is open to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of one of the eligible Midwestern states. Students must major in education and have a grade point average of 2.5-3.5.
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is open to female undergraduate and graduate students who are members of SWE and majoring in engineering or computer science. Students must attend a college/university with an active SWE chapter in the Region G area.
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$60,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Apr 26
Deadline
The Anthony Muñoz Scholarship Fund was created by Anthony Muñoz and his family to support Tri-State youth in achieving their dreams of attending a local college or university. All applicants must demonstrate a desire and intent to overcome adversity, have financial need, excel academically, and fulfill a leadership role in the community. Semi-finalists will be interviewed by AMF Scholarship Fund selection committee in May. Finalists will be announced on May 31st!
Committed to nurturing the growth of all Tri-State youth and especially vulnerable, at-risk populations, the Anthony Muñoz Foundation has created unique opportunities that appeal to students of all ages, educational, cultural and economic backgrounds. Through deploying a life-changing college scholarship fund program, three high school education and recognition programs, three empowering football camps, and our Whiz Kids tutoring program, the Anthony Muñoz Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of youth across the Tri-State.
Anthony strongly feels that youth need to be encouraged and inspired, as well as recognized and rewarded for their accomplishments. Anthony and our organization want the youth of our region to know that they have value. No matter the odds, they can rise above the hardships life has dealt them and achieve their dreams.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 31
Deadline
The Chaffin Luhana Anti-Distracted Driving Scholarship is an essay contest open to currently enrolled U.S. students who are 25 years of age or younger. Applicants must submit an original essay offering a unique and practical perspectives on the dangers posed by distracted drivers.
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$25,000
Award Amount
5
Awards
May 1
Deadline
This award is available for female U.S. college sophomores and juniors who major in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, software engineering, or systems engineering. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and attend select institutions as listed on the SWE website.
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$750
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This award is available to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Ohio. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
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$10,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 17
Deadline
This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors who reside within 50 miles of a Simon® property. Students must plan to enroll full time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school in the upcoming fall semester, and must demonstrate academic promise and financial need.
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$31,500
Award Amount
9
Awards
Feb 1
Deadline
Applicants must be sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students majoring in horticulture or a related field with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. Students must reside in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or West Virginia.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 1
Deadline
This award is available to Arkansas graduate students who are studying dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, or chiropractic medicine at an eligible out-of-state institution.
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Over 600,000 students are enrolled in Ohio’s 87 colleges and universities including Ohio State University (OSU), Ohio University (OU), University of Cincinnati (UC), University of Akron, Kent State University, Bowling Green University, Miami University, Case Western University, Xavier University, and the University of Toledo. Whether you are a current Ohio resident or interested in attending school in Ohio, you could qualify for one of Ohio’s millions of dollars in scholarships!
Understanding Scholarships In Ohio
Before we take a look at scholarships in Ohio, it is important to understand the cost of attending college in the Buckeye State.
In-state tuition and fees at OU for 2024-25 is $ 14,158 or $ 13,244 if you are attending OSU’s main campus. In-state tuition and fees at other Ohio public universities are similar including $ 13,054 at Kent State University or $ 13,570 at UC. Public schools in Ohio offer a tuition guarantee that ensures your tuition will not increase for four years as an undergraduate student. If you are an out-of-state student, tuition will vary by campus. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition at OSU is $ 40,022 but only $ 24,838 at OU. Room and board at Ohio public universities is approximately $ 14,000, regardless of residency..
While many students attending either public or private colleges and universities in Ohio will receive financial aid including state, federal, and institutional grants, the majority of students will find at least a portion of their cost of attendance will not be covered by financial aid. This is where scholarships, especially private scholarship programs like the ones you can apply for on unigo.com play a very important role in keeping college costs affordable.
Ohio Scholarships for College
There are many opportunities for scholarships for Ohio residents and students wishing to study in ohio. Take a look at the list below.
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
The Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) is a need-based grant program that helps Ohio students from low- to moderate-income families afford college. OCOG grants can be used at public or eligible private colleges and universities in Ohio. If you are attending school on a full-time basis, the maximum OCOG award is $ 5,000.
Choose Ohio First Scholarship
The Choose Ohio First Scholarship program provides scholarships to students who are studying STEM fields, which include science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Choose Ohio First Scholarship awards are available for students at both the undergraduate and graduate level for students pursuing certificates or degrees. Awards can be used at participating public and private colleges and universities in Ohio. In addition to scholarship awards, Choose Ohio First Scholarship recipients receive mentorship and internship opportunities.
By investing in STEM education, Ohio seeks to retain talented graduates within the state, fostering innovation and economic growth. Choose Ohio First Scholars receive financial assistance, mentorship, and opportunities for internships and research.
Governor’s Merit Scholarship
Ohio students who graduate in the top 5% of their high school class are eligible for the Governor’s Merit Scholarship (GMS), which provides awards of up to $ 5,000 per year for up to four years. GMS awards can be used at eligible Ohio colleges and universities.
Ohio State Grant & Scholarship Programs
The Ohio Department of Higher Education offers a number of special scholarship programs including Ohio Hidden Heroes, Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans’ Children Scholarship (WOS), Ohio Work Ready Grant, the Second Chance Grant, and scholarships available for Ohio students who were adopted.
College Specific Scholarship Programs in Ohio
Many colleges and universities in Ohio offer their own scholarship programs to attract and retain talented students. Ohio State University offers the merit-based Stamps Eminence Scholarship, which provides a full-ride scholarship as well as an enrichment grant of up to $ 5,000. Miami University offers similar awards through its Presidential Fellows Program. The University of Cincinnati provides the Cincinnatus Scholarship Program, which awards over $ 22 million in renewable scholarships annually based on financial need and academic performance.
Institutional Grants and Scholarships for Ohio Colleges
Many other Ohio colleges and universities offer institutional grants and scholarships to attract and support students. These awards may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both, helping to offset the cost of tuition and other expenses. Institutional awards often go a long way to meet any gaps between federal financial aid you may be eligible for and the actual cost of attendance.
Federal Grants
Ohio students, particularly those from low-income households, may qualify for federal grants like the Pell Grant. The maximum Pell Grant award for 2024-25 is $ 7,395. These grants are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment, making them an important resource for funding undergraduate education for many families.
Private Scholarships in Ohio
Ohio has great scholarship and grant opportunities for its students but not all students are eligible. For those who are eligible, these programs will not always cover the full cost of your education and often will not cover room and board, books, transportation, and other substantial costs you will face as a college student. The same is true with federal grants and institutional grants and scholarships. This is why private scholarships are so important for students to consider.
Ohio students can access thousands of private scholarships including several offered by the Cleveland Foundation. Other prominent scholarship programs available for Ohio students include:
- The Ohio State University Land Grant Opportunity Scholarship
- Foundation for Appalachian Ohio
- LEAF Scholarship
- Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarships
- Ohio Education Association Scholarships
- Ohio Society of CPAs College Scholarships
- Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges / Ohio Scholars Program
- Erie County Community Foundation Scholarships
- Greater Toledo Community Foundation Scholarships
- Jewish Federal Foundation of Toledo Scholarships
- Wooster-Orrville NAACP Scholarship
- YCSCU Scholarship
- Ohio Elks Association Scholarships
- Akron Community Foundation Scholarships
- Ohio Soybean Council
- Richland County Foundation Scholarship
- Cincinnati Scholarship Foundation Scholarships
- OAPSE/AFSCME Memorial Scholarship Program
- College Now of Greater Cleveland Scholarships
- Ohio FFA Foundation Scholarships
- Northwest Ohio Scholarship Fund
- Dayton Foundation Scholarships
Private scholarships vary widely in criteria and eligibility, offering opportunities for students pursuing higher education at any accredited college or university nationwide. You should plan to apply broadly for as many private scholarships as you may qualify.
Websites like unigo.com provide comprehensive listings and application details for many private scholarships.
Scholarships for Adult and Graduate Students
Many scholarship and grant programs are focused on students pursuing an undergraduate degree and/or attending school on a full-time basis. If you are an adult going back to school or wanting to pursue graduate studies in Ohio, there are scholarships and grants available to you in order to keep the cost of your continuing education affordable. These include scholarship programs for STEM fields, school counseling, law, and many other areas of study. Many employers also offer tuition assistance for their employees wanting to go back to school..
Tips for Landing Scholarships and Grants in Ohio
Applying for scholarships and grants can be competitive, but with the right strategy, you can increase your chances of success:
- Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and begin applying for scholarships as soon as possible. Many scholarships have deadlines well before the academic year starts.
- Get Organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application requirements. Using a spreadsheet or calendar can help you manage your scholarship applications effectively.
- Tailor Your Responses: Customize your essays and personal statements to align with the specific criteria and mission of each scholarship you apply for.
- Asf for Recommendations: Strong letters of recommendation from your teachers, counselors, or community leaders can really help distinguish your scholarship application.
- Highlight Your Achievements: Make sure to showcase your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and future goals.
- Complete the FAFSA: Many grant and scholarship programs in Ohio require recipients to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to be considered. You will also need to complete the FAFSA in order to be considered for any federal student aid programs including Pell and other grants. Most schools also use the FAFSA, in whole or in part, to determine the amount of institutional aid or grants they will award you.
How About Student Loans?
Although grants and scholarships are ideal because they do not require repayment, they may not take care of all expenses related to your education. Student loans at the Federal level offer favorable terms compared to the variety of private loans and can help bridge the financial gap. However, it’s important to consider your obligations regarding repayment when taking out any type of financial aid and student loan.
By leveraging the many scholarship and grant opportunities available, students attending college in Ohio can pursue their educational goals with greater financial ease and support. Whether your goal is to attend a public or private college or university, exploring your options early on can make a significant difference in funding your academic journey ahead!
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List