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2018 Best Colleges in OhioAbout this List

The Best Colleges ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, admissions, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from students and alumni. The ranking compares more than 1,000 top colleges and universities in the U.S. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Best Colleges
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  1. Case Western Reserve University

    • 4 Year
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 1,595
    1 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: CWRU offers an experience unlike many of the other colleges I toured and visited. It has an incredible focus on student success and offers so many resources--like your own personal librarian and a 50,000-square-foot maker space with 3D printers and laser cutters--you just can't find time in the day to use them all! We're all huge nerds here, so it makes for a tiny party scene with a bunch of socially awkward kids, but that's not why we go to school.

    If you've ever wondered where all the Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, and UChicago rejects go to school, this is the place. SO if you're an engineering student who's a little socially awkward and hella smart, this is definitely the place for you!

    Come check it out
    Read 1,595 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 35% Acceptance Rate
    • $33,124 Net Price
    • 1280-1490 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. The Ohio State University

    • 4 Year
    • Columbus, OH
    • 4,916
    2 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I have absolutely loved my time at Ohio State! When choosing a school my senior year of high school, I was very torn between OSU and another school. Ultimately, I knew Ohio State was the best fit for me, and it has way exceeded my expectations since arriving in August. The amount of school spirit everyone has is unlike anything I've ever experienced and everyone truly is just so happy to be a buckeye. The challenging coursework and excellent professors make Ohio State's academic experience one of a kind. My only complaint about my is experience is, my dorm is very old and lacks air conditioning and study spaces. But after the weather cools down it's not a problem! With alumni stretching to all ends of the Earth, I'm so thrilled to be part of the wonderful Ohio State community. Go bucks!
    Read 4,916 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,971 Net Price
    • 1160-1410 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Kenyon College

    • 4 Year
    • Gambier, OH
    • 357
    3 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: It is a lot more sports/Greek oriented than I imagined, but I still enjoy it. For a small school, after a semester I am still meeting people I've never seen before (maybe I'm just unobservant), and it seems students still find themselves making new friends even senior year. It's very high school socially, perhaps because of size, but the cliques aren't as intimidating.
    I have enjoyed classes immensely, not that I've had so much experience with them yet. I would recommend contacting professors early and often– twice I have contacted professors with interest in a particular course and they have just enrolled me! This doesn't seem like a super frequent practice, but do all you can to get on waitlists as soon as possible because enrolling in courses is surprisingly difficult. Introducing yourself in person to prospective professors goes a long way. Not that particularly pertains to Kenyon...
    Read 357 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,192 Net Price
    • 1230-1440 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  4. Sponsored

    Xavier University

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 997

    Sophomore: Xavier is a close knit community that truly cares for one another. The feeling of "being home" is the top reason that students say they chose this school I couldn't agree more. The professors care, the students care, and the campus cares. Academics are rigorous but the class sizes are reasonable so it's easy to get to know your professors and peers. There are so many opportunities for growth - internships, study abroad, panel talks, etc. What more could you ask for? A challenging curriculum with the appropriate tools to succeed. Go X!
    Read 997 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,757 Net Price
    • 1010-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. Denison University

    • 4 Year
    • Granville, OH
    • 632
    4 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: The campus is probably the most beautiful I have ever seen. Mix that with top notch professors that not only teach but care about their students. Small class sizes are the norm and because of that allow you to know your fellow student and your professors more intimately. I can't forget about the sports! Being an athlete myself, I can tell you that don't let this 'smaller' school fool you...almost every sport is represented here with superior athletes playing them. Glad I made the decision to attend this great school.
    Read 632 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 44% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,023 Net Price
    • 1190-1380 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. Oberlin College

    • 4 Year
    • Oberlin, OH
    • 592
    5 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I really enjoy Oberlin and all it has to offer. Academics are outstanding. Classes are interesting and challenging, the professors are brilliant and accessible. Both semesters I got the classes I wanted, though sometimes your have to sit in for a first few days before getting in. (Common at liberal arts schools.)

    Oberlin is a great size, small enough to feel like a community but large enough to keep meeting new people. Students are friendly. Some are quirky, athletic, political, or musical, but they are a great mix and you may be surprised at the friendships you make. There is always something to do on campus, and it is easy to get to Cleveland if you miss urban life.

    Athletics continue to improve, with several conference championships. Conservatory concerts are popular. The dining hall food is average, but if you like to cook or have dietary restrictions, you should consider joining a fun and delicious dining co-op.
    Read 592 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 28% Acceptance Rate
    • $42,105 Net Price
    • 1250-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. College of Wooster

    • 4 Year
    • Wooster, OH
    • 1,227
    6 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Junior: I absolutely love the College of Wooster! When I visited for the first time, I fell in love with the atmosphere of the College. I felt welcomed right away and never lost this feeling. Additionally, I loved that the students seemed to really care about their campus and that most students are extremely involved on campus. This was all clear to me during my tour and then when I sat in on a class, I was sold. The professor I had was engaging and made the rather large classroom (by Wooster's standards) seem much more intimate. I remember hearing students talking about the class and other classes before and after the lecture, which made me realize how engaged in academics students here are. Fast forward four years and here I am typing this review as a junior at the College. I am so happy that I chose the College of Wooster and that every good thought I had about the College has been proven right ten-fold since coming here.
    Read 1,227 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,813 Net Price
    • 1070-1350 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  9. University of Dayton

    • 4 Year
    • Dayton, OH
    • 1,296
    7 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: Overall it's a great campus, with a really good vibe. Lots of events that take place and allow you to get involved on campus. Very supportive of every sports team! Multiple places on campus to get great food, along with Brown Street that has just about every variety of food you can think of. Professors are very friendly and helpful. Class sizes are fairly small compared to other schools. The campus all over from landscaping to dorms is amazing! One thing I wish for is a little more diversity considering myself a minority. Dayton is a great place to be with many opportunities and memories to look forward to!
    Read 1,296 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 60% Acceptance Rate
    • $34,019 Net Price
    • 1020-1240 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. Miami University

    • 4 Year
    • Oxford, OH
    • 2,914
    8 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Junior: I love being a Miami student! Our facilities and campus are beautiful, the professors truly care about students, the campus culture is unique, and this school really does prepare you for a job after graduation. If you're hoping to pursue a career in business or fashion, this is a great school in Ohio to bust into that world. Miami alums are incredibly connected within the business world--we have countless alums that are CEOs, CMOs, etc. Additionally, we have a great fashion organization, MUF&D, that puts on the largest student-run fashion show in the US. Miami definitely has a party culture and heavy Greek life. So if you don't love going out, just get involved with other organizations and make friends in different ways. Highly recommend coming here!
    Read 2,914 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 65% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,186 Net Price
    • 1130-1350 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Ohio Northern University

    • 4 Year
    • Ada, OH
    • 519
    9 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: Ohio Northern is a very prestiguous school full of opportunity. My experiences here so far have been greatly beneficial to my future already and have allowed me to start making numerous professional connections just 8 weeks into being here. The small community here makes everyone feel like family. The one-on-one time that you can get from your professors is extremely beneficial. Every professor cares about YOU succeeding. Every department is successful here and I do not know of many small town colleges that are strong in every single major. You'll even see plenty of furry creatures such as the squirrels, ducks, geese, and swans! Plus, chicken tenders from World of Wings Cafe. Nothing beats this small and diverse campus.
    Read 519 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,348 Net Price
    • 1030-1235 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. John Carroll University

    • 4 Year
    • University Heights, OH
    • 762
    10 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Junior: John Carroll is an academically exceptional school. They have a rigorous core curriculum and the major requirements are equally challenging. It is technically a Catholic school, but the Catholic presence is hardly felt at times. It is politically left-leaning. The professors are incredibly personable and available to help their students. That is perhaps my favorite part about the university. There is truly no greater resource to college students than having professors who care about your academic career and success. There have been countless occasions where the help or advice of a professor has totally altered my performance in a class for the better. The students are all very respectful and hard-working. The facilities are actually quite nice, with the interiors of the buildings in excellent condition. The technology is above average.
    Read 762 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 83% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,205 Net Price
    • 990-1200 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. University of Cincinnati

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 3,426
    11 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Alum: The campus of the University is beautifully crafted and redesigned. The blueprints were staged by former Engineering Alumni. This significant mark on the campus is a great accomplishment and success story in its own for new students to be captivated by. The school tours are lead by selected honors students of the university who also mentor, guide, and inspire new students. The university has the highest number of students enrolled ever this year. The campus is centrally located to multiple apartment buildings and restaurants. The campus holds multiple job fairs, opportunity fairs, career progression panels, and other such organizations are well known to the community. The welcoming to freshmen, involvement, and connection building is very prominent, including sororities and fraternities, but also with sports, ROTC programs, and other events. Tutoring is included with tuition!
    Read 3,426 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 76% Acceptance Rate
    • $19,978 Net Price
    • 1030-1290 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. Ohio University

    • 4 Year
    • Athens, OH
    • 3,338
    12 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: Ohio University is more than just the four years you are here. It's about the lasting memories you make and knowledge you gain. While it is a bit taunting to go out and enjoy the social and bar scenes around campus, OU is all about time management. It's very hard to get caught up in the fun of things and forget about academics. But it is most certainly not impossible. If students take their time here, and use the networking and resources that are available it is absolutely amazing the places you can go. The oppritunities are so beyond contrary belief.

    College has been the best time of my life, Ohio University has already opened so many doors for so many and it just keeps growing and getting better. Come check it out!
    Read 3,338 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • $21,899 Net Price
    • 990-1200 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Xavier University

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 997
    13 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: Xavier is a close knit community that truly cares for one another. The feeling of "being home" is the top reason that students say they chose this school I couldn't agree more. The professors care, the students care, and the campus cares. Academics are rigorous but the class sizes are reasonable so it's easy to get to know your professors and peers. There are so many opportunities for growth - internships, study abroad, panel talks, etc. What more could you ask for? A challenging curriculum with the appropriate tools to succeed. Go X!
    Read 997 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,757 Net Price
    • 1010-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. Baldwin Wallace University

    • 4 Year
    • Berea, OH
    • 952
    14 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: BW is great! As a mid-year transfer student I was really nervous having to start everything over again. I went from a huge state school to a very small school. The faculty & staff are very kind. My professors know me by name and want what's best for me, in & outside of the classroom. From understanding the course work to finding an internship or getting involved on campus, they truly make an effort to make sure that we are taking advantage of all the opportunities that are provided here at Baldwin Wallace University.
    Read 952 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 60% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,326 Net Price
    • 950-1200 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. Wittenberg University

    • 4 Year
    • Springfield, OH
    • 697
    15 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I really love this University! I wouldn’t go anywhere else. This is a very fun campus that also is very educationally involved. A lot of students drop their first year, due to academics. But if you stay, you are given so many opportunities here. The job placement rate is extremely high! The athletics here don’t disappoint us either. I would recommend this campus to people who like to work hard but love to have fun.
    Read 697 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,325 Net Price
    • 1040-1240 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. Ohio Wesleyan University

    • 4 Year
    • Delaware, OH
    • 589
    16 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: Small town atmosphere, safe, plenty to do, liberal arts, fun fun fun! Professors are readily available to help grow my learning.75% of all students are involved in Division 3 sports, with excellent facilities. Great coaches who want to see you grow and be better. Close proximity to state capital and job opportunities after graduation. 90% of graduates leave college with a quality job offer. Students are well rounded and able to overcome all issues faced to them in real life experiences . Career opportunities are plentiful, with over sees classes also.
    Read 589 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 72% Acceptance Rate
    • $27,967 Net Price
    • 990-1250 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Cedarville University

    • 4 Year
    • Cedarville, OH
    • 1,024
    17 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I absolutely love Cedarville! It's been an amazing experience so far and I can't wait to spend the next three years here! The professors are incredible and care about the students more than they care about their academic journals and whatever else professors do. They will work with you, help you, and do absolutely everything in their power to make sure you succeed.
    The quality of education is also amazing. I've learned so much and I am actually enjoying it. Many Christian schools tend to sacrifice quality of education for making everything "christian", Cedarville does not do this. At Cedarville they take education seriously and teach at a high academic level.
    Over all, Cedarville is an excellent school and a great choice.
    Read 1,024 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,849 Net Price
    • 1080-1310 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. Otterbein University

    • 4 Year
    • Westerville, OH
    • 617
    18 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Senior: Awesome academics with many internship opportunities. Columbus is a great place for after college job opportunities. Westerville is an awesome place to be during college years, anything you need is in this area. Polaris is only 5 minutes away which has everything you need. Athletics are awesome! Great coaching staff for all athletic teams. Hosing/ dorms are great and the food is pretty good. Lots of off campus housing opportunities for upperclassman.
    Read 617 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • $23,945 Net Price
    • 1010-1220 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Bowling Green State University

    • 4 Year
    • Bowling Green, OH
    • 2,310
    19 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I love Bowling Green State University! It is such an amazing and beautiful campus. Even though the weather isn't all that great in Bowling Green, that doesn't stop the students of doing different things. Downtown is so close to campus and it allows the students to try local restaurants and go to cute boutiques. In addition, the student life on campus is a wonderful. There are so many student organizations that a ton of people are apart of and they also have greek life which is amazing community. Bowling Green is a wonderful place and I fell in love with it when I first visited the campus. Once I stepped on campus, I knew I wanted to be a falcon at Bowling Green State University.
    Read 2,310 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 76% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,313 Net Price
    • 900-1150 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. Marietta College

    • 4 Year
    • Marietta, OH
    • 341
    20 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: If you're looking for a small, academically-inclined college, this is the best place to go! It's easy to find your way around campus and there are so many resources available to students. It doesn't end after four years! Alumni can come back to receive help with finding a job or using any of the resources available.
    Read 341 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,847 Net Price
    • 950-1230 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. Walsh University

    • 4 Year
    • North Canton, OH
    • 477
    21 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I just finished my first semester there as a freshman and I have already meet some great people. I have made friends that I will keep for the rest of my life! The teachers are very willing to help you if you are struggling or if you need some help choosing a career. The teachers will sit down with you and help go through all of your options. Walsh overall has a great support system and will help you with any situation that you might get into!
    Read 477 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,195 Net Price
    • 880-1110 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. University of Mount Union

    • 4 Year
    • Alliance, OH
    • 1,087
    22 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I love Mount Union because the atmosphere is very friendly. I think many people assume because Mount is an expensive college, the students will be stuck up snobs. This is completely untrue. I have found the complete opposite to be true really. I come from a low income household and paid for college completely through scholarships and grants. Never once have I felt lesser because of my socioeconomic status. Everyone I've interacted with have been exceptionally kind to one another. As funny as it is to say, the one thing that sticks out in my mind is the extreme lengths students go to to hold doors for others. The professors are always available and are able to relate well with students. Course material is difficult, but the atmosphere is full of resources and encouragement. I love being a Raider!
    Read 1,087 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • $22,728 Net Price
    • 890-1110 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. University of Findlay

    • 4 Year
    • Findlay, OH
    • 755
    23 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: While this is my first semester at the University of Findlay I have already fallen in love. This is currently my second semester at UF and I have had only positive experiences. The professors and laid back, nice and willing to help you out. They're nothing like the stereotypical college professors who are strict and impatient. There is always something to do at Findlay; whether that means a club activity, free food, free shirts, seminars, concerts and many other possibilities. The professors, staff and students are all very friendly and great to be around. The campus is well maintained and beautiful in the spring and summer. The vibe around campus if friendly and welcoming to everyone. I am so glad to be at such a wonderful college that has helped me explore and grow.
    Read 755 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 97% Acceptance Rate
    • $20,129 Net Price
    • 940-1040 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. Franciscan University of Steubenville

    • 4 Year
    • Steubenville, OH
    • 748
    24 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: So far Franciscan has been great! As a freshman I was not sure if it would fit me, but I can now say that I love it here and I would not trade it for the world. It gives me a good balance of Faith, Academics, and other aspects that I believe will help me become a better person. I would definitely consider looking at Franciscan if you are looking for a well rounded education and for something that will push you to become a better person.
    Read 748 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • $26,367 Net Price
    • 1040-1300 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Cleveland State University

    • 4 Year
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 1,636
    25 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: I love the class sizes because you're able to build more personal relationships with your professors and get one on one attention if needed. The professors actually care about their jobs and their students. Cleveland State is located in downtown Cleveland so there are many different attractions including restaurants, stores , museums, bars , parks you name it! Another thing I really love about CSU is the advisory services as a first generation freshman I felt very supported as far as preparation as well as financial help. The party scene is not really great but otherwise all around great school .
    Read 1,636 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 87% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,555 Net Price
    • 890-1160 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Cleveland Institute of Art

    • 4 Year
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 198

    Sophomore: CIA is awesome! I just finished my sophomore year in Animation and I'm still loving it. The professors are amazing and I feel like I've learned so much at the end of each semester. I can't speak for any other programs, but the Animation program is awesome. I only wish we could cover more subjects. There's not enough time in a year honestly. I wish we were able to take Illustration classes without having to submit a portfolio and get accepted into a second major. Because, for example, we don't get to take classes like Character Design (since it's technically an Illustration class). Overall though, it's a great program with great people. Heads up for freshmen/prospective freshmen, Animation is one of the most competitive majors to get into at this school. It's definitely worth it, but you should know that going in.
    Read 198 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $30,647 Net Price
    • 1010-1220 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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