The Ohio State University SAT & ACT scores.
The Ohio State University is one of the largest and most well-known public research universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), Ohio State received roughly 58,200 applications and offered admission to about 33,200 students—an acceptance rate near 57%. While overall admission is relatively accessible, Ohio State's top programs in business, engineering, and nursing are considerably more competitive.
About 21% of applicants submit an SAT score and 64% an ACT score.
Ohio State offers a non-binding Early Action option. Applying Early Action allows you to receive your decision sooner while still keeping your options open. There is no Early Decision plan. For competitive programs, applying EA is recommended as some popular majors may have limited seats by the regular round.
Testing policy has evolved. Ohio State was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), Ohio State will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Strong test scores help distinguish applicants, particularly for competitive honors and direct-admission programs.
SAT scores
For Ohio State's average SAT scores, admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1250–1440. This range reflects the solid academic foundation of Ohio State's incoming class, with honors and selective programs skewing toward the upper end.
For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for Ohio State's admitted students falls around 620–700 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the reading, writing, and analytical skills Ohio State expects across its many programs.
On the Math portion, Ohio State's middle-50% range is about 630–740. This performance signals competency in algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that Ohio State values particularly for its strong engineering and business programs.
If you're wondering about an Ohio State average SAT, aim for the mid-1300s. Ohio State evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1250 don't automatically disqualify you. But for competitive programs like Fisher Business or engineering, you'll want scores closer to the 75th percentile.
Policy note: Ohio State superscores the SAT. They consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math section scores from all test dates. In practice, this means a weak section can be improved with a retake, boosting how your Ohio State SAT scores are evaluated.
ACT scores
Looking at Ohio State's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 26–32. This range reflects the diversity of programs available, from highly selective honors to accessible general admission. Ohio State ACT results span a wide band, with competitive programs expecting scores in the low 30s.
By section, admitted students show strength in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 25–34, meaning there is a wide range depending on the program. Students in humanities and social sciences tend to score at the higher end.
ACT Math scores at Ohio State are similarly broad: the middle 50% falls around 26–31. Students targeting STEM or business programs typically need scores at the higher end of this range to be competitive for direct admission.
Ohio State superscores the ACT just as it does the SAT, taking the highest section scores across multiple test dates. The optional writing section is not required, but applicants may submit it if it strengthens their profile. Using superscoring, you can focus on improving any weaker sections in additional attempts.
If you're estimating an Ohio State average ACT, plan around 31 for competitive programs. Given Ohio State's program-specific admissions, your target score depends partly on your intended major. Pair test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.
Admission numbers
Here's the reality: Ohio State's overall admit rate is about 57%, with roughly 58,200 applications for about 33,200 spots (around 7,800 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the Ohio State average SAT and Ohio State average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above Ohio State's 75th percentile (around a 1440 SAT or 32 ACT), you're in stronger territory for competitive programs.
That said, Ohio State emphasizes holistic review and considers your intended major. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, and personal qualities alongside test scores. For honors and selective direct-admission programs, the bar is meaningfully higher than the overall averages suggest.
Strategy snapshot: Apply Early Action to receive your decision sooner, especially for competitive programs. Take advantage of superscoring by retaking tests to shore up any weak section. Also balance test prep with maintaining strong senior-year classes and crafting compelling essays. Meet Ohio State's testing bar for your target program and then strengthen the rest of your profile.
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