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2019 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.

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  1. Kenyon College

    • 4 Year
    • Gambier, OH
    • 357
    1 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?

  2. Case Western Reserve University

    • 4 Year
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 1,596
    2 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 1,596 Reviews

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

  3. The Ohio State University

    • 4 Year
    • Columbus, OH
    • 4,937
    3 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Graduate Student: I could not love this university more. There is a place for everyone and college is what you make of it. I had a job on campus for three years, and was involved in clubs and research. Getting involved was the best decision I ever made. I was committed to many things, always busy, and enjoyed every moment. It doesn’t hurt that sports are fun there. The opportunities are endless, and if you reach out and make an effort you will enjoy your time. I even worked for the university for a year at the Medical Center before going back to graduate school now!
    Read 4,937 Reviews

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

    Cleveland Institute of Art

    • 4 Year
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 199

    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 199 Reviews

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

  5. Denison University

    • 4 Year
    • Granville, OH
    • 634
    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 634 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. University of Dayton

    • 4 Year
    • Dayton, OH
    • 1,298
    6 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Senior: After four years at the University of Dayton I can say with confidence that it is a great school. The campus is breathtaking, and the professors truly want to see you learn.

    The campus living situation is unique with an on-campus neighborhood. Most students live on-campus for the entire four years at the University of Dayton! Students can easily walk to class from any on-campus housing option. The size of the campus is the perfect blend between small and large.

    With a variety of majors and huge selection of on campus involvement opportunities, I have met a diverse group of life-long friends!
    Read 1,298 Reviews

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

    • 4 Year
    • Oxford, OH
    • 2,919
    7 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 2,919 Reviews

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

  10. Ohio Northern University

    • 4 Year
    • Ada, OH
    • 520
    8 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 520 Reviews

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

  11. University of Cincinnati

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 3,447
    9 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 3,447 Reviews

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

  14. College of Wooster

    • 4 Year
    • Wooster, OH
    • 1,228
    10 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 1,228 Reviews

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

  15. Ohio University

    • 4 Year
    • Athens, OH
    • 3,345
    11 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 3,345 Reviews

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

  16. John Carroll University

    • 4 Year
    • University Heights, OH
    • 763
    12 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 763 Reviews

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

  18. Cedarville University

    • 4 Year
    • Cedarville, OH
    • 1,032
    13 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 1,032 Reviews

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

  19. Xavier University

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 1,002
    14 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Freshman: Xavier is a great university... and a great investment in my future. The move-in and orientation experience was meaningful, memorable and helped ease the transition. Upperclassmen made us feel welcomed and accepted. This university cares about the individual and wants each of us to make a difference in our world, now and in the future. Books are included in the tuition! There is a pizza ATM. Need I say more?
    Read 1,002 Reviews

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

  20. Baldwin Wallace University

    • 4 Year
    • Berea, OH
    • 954
    15 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 954 Reviews

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

  21. Wittenberg University

    • 4 Year
    • Springfield, OH
    • 697
    16 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?

  22. Otterbein University

    • 4 Year
    • Westerville, OH
    • 618
    17 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 618 Reviews

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

  25. Bowling Green State University

    • 4 Year
    • Bowling Green, OH
    • 2,319
    18 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 2,319 Reviews

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

  26. Kent State University

    • 4 Year
    • Kent, OH
    • 4,196
    19 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: I love Kent State! Having just finished my first year at this amazing university I believe I am able to give a reasonable review. Starting with the pros, Kent State has an amazing resource system. ANYTHING you need, Kent State has or can point you in the right direction of someone who has it or how you can even start it yourself. Kent State has amazing faculty and staff that I believe are truly there to help you. From custodians to our president, I have had nothing but great experiences. Our sports/recreational teams and facilities are top tear or currently being renovated to get there. Kent State is always improving and trying to be the best. Cons, being that it is such a huge university parking can be a hassle and the walking can be tiresome. There is a wide range of people there so of course a few aren't going to be the most pleasant. All in all I truly enjoy Kent State and cannot wait to further my education here!
    Read 4,196 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,180 Net Price
    • 950-1160 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. Ohio Wesleyan University

    • 4 Year
    • Delaware, OH
    • 592
    21 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 592 Reviews

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

  29. Walsh University

    • 4 Year
    • North Canton, OH
    • 480
    22 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 480 Reviews

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

  32. University of Findlay

    • 4 Year
    • Findlay, OH
    • 759
    23 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Alum: The University of Findlay is an amazing school with a very nice eye-appealing look. The Admissions team is very nice and are there when you need them. UF is defiantly the most beautiful universities I have seen. There band is beyond excellent totally worth going to see! They have a bunch of opportunities and different things to consider. I defiantly fell in love UF and the academics. Their staff is amazing and defiantly helps you consider if the university is for you. I will always love Findlay and how the community supports each other. To say the least, the University of Findlay is a great school and is very safe for college students.
    Read 759 Reviews

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

  33. Ohio State University - Marion

    • 4 Year
    • Marion, OH
    • 131
    24 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: During my first year at OSU in Marion, I was very nervous. I was fresh out of high school, I did not know many people, and I was quite oblivious to what college life awaits me. The staff and my peer leaders were very helpful with making me feel more comfortable being a new college student. The scenery was lovely, there were many resources I can use if I needed help with homework or studying, and I have met many friendly people. My classes now are very difficult but I work and communicate with my fellow students and my professors often whenever I need assistance. I plan to finish my bachelor's degree in biology at OSU in Marion, and I am confident I will be able to accomplish that.
    Read 131 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,759 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Muskingum University

    • 4 Year
    • New Concord, OH
    • 256
    25 Best Colleges in Ohio

    Sophomore: I absolutely LOVE Muskingum University. The people and community are absolutely amazing and such a close group of people, and they are all so accepting of each other. The professors are great at interacting with students and and providing a rigorous curriculum. There are endless opportunities to get involved too such as Greek life, multi-cultural life, music and the arts, sports, everything under the sun! The residence halls could use some updating, but that does not take away from the absolute beauty of the rolling hills and classic brick featured all over campus. Go Muskies!
    Read 256 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,973 Net Price
    • 880-1120 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Art Academy of Cincinnati

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 66

    Alum: I went to the Art Academy because I was looking for a smaller more individual experience with the faculty and student body. I was not disappointed! The professors and administrators are very involved in the student’s life in the form of mentorship, advising, academics and visual art. The professors and staff are local, national and international creative practioners and educators. I felt we shared a unique community with the school that was both respectful and insightful. I would recommend anyone to this great school!
    Read 66 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 31% Acceptance Rate
    • $24,137 Net Price
    • 810-1050 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    Xavier University

    • 4 Year
    • Cincinnati, OH
    • 1,002

    Freshman: Xavier is a great university... and a great investment in my future. The move-in and orientation experience was meaningful, memorable and helped ease the transition. Upperclassmen made us feel welcomed and accepted. This university cares about the individual and wants each of us to make a difference in our world, now and in the future. Books are included in the tuition! There is a pizza ATM. Need I say more?
    Read 1,002 Reviews

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