2024 Best Test Optional Colleges in Ohio

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  5,805 reviews

Senior: As a fourth-year student at The Ohio State University, my experience has been enriching. The diverse academic programs allowed me to explore various fields, and the faculty's expertise and dedication have been invaluable. I've particularly enjoyed the research opportunities, which provided practical skills and experience. Campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations and activities, including spirited football games and cultural events. The state-of-the-art facilities, like libraries and recreational centers, have enhanced my experience. One improvement I'd suggest is reducing class sizes in introductory courses for more personalized attention. Overall, my time at OSU has been fantastic, offering a blend of rigorous academics, a lively campus atmosphere, and opportunities for growth. It's been a journey filled with education, experiences, and lasting friendships. Go Buckeyes!... Read 5,805 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,474

• SAT range 1250-1440

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,761 reviews

Senior: Amazing, I love it! The people are ambitious and passionate. Plus, the financial aid brought most students here, so there is a healthy mixture of different economic classes too. Throughout the year, the campus vibrant and full of life. Plus, we are all academically challenged and they have begun to value both the science and arts equally. So, it’s common to meet students who may be a strong engineering student with a passion for singing. Regardless, CWRU will provide with the resources to be successful. While it is primarily white and Asian (based on demographics), there is an ever growing black and brown population. And with their new effort to support the surrounding community, the campus is becoming much safer and more enjoyable. I love this school and will miss it when I graduate, but I’m happy that things keep improving as things progress over time.... Read 1,761 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $38,166

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Gambier, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  406 reviews

Sophomore: I love this college! Not only is the faculty really interested in developing intellectual engagement, I have been pleasantly surprised by the incredible theater scene here. I came to Kenyon from a well-known arts school with a major in drama, and I was concerned I would not find a high level of drama instruction. That has not been the case. I have had plenty of chances to perform as well as to go to performances, and I've gotten to meet a lot of students and faculty who are very serious about theater and film. It's a wonderful place.... Read 406 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $38,927

• SAT range 1340-1500

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,462 reviews

Senior: Oh, my time at the University of Dayton was simply unforgettable! From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I was in for an amazing college experience. Go Flyers! One of the first organizations I got involved with was Phi Chi Theta, the premier business and economics fraternity. Another significant role I held on campus was serving on the University Hearing Board. As a board member, I participated in student conduct hearings, where we strived to create a supportive and educational environment while upholding the university's code of conduct. Academically, the University of Dayton provided an excellent learning environment. The professors were approachable and genuinely invested in their students' success. Overall, my college experience at the University of Dayton was a whirlwind of growth, learning, and camaraderie. The memories I made and the skills I developed during my time there continue to shape my journey beyond graduation.... Read 1,462 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $29,933

• SAT range 1130-1330

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,081 reviews

Graduate Student: As a current graduate of the University of Cincinnati, I am ecstatic to share my overwhelmingly positive experience! The university's commitment to academic excellence and supportive faculty truly stood out during my time there. The diverse and vibrant campus community fostered a welcoming environment, encouraging collaboration and cultural enrichment. Cutting-edge research opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities further enriched my learning journey. UC's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications prepared me for a successful career ahead. I am forever grateful for the lifelong friendships and professional networks I developed. Without a doubt, the University of Cincinnati is an exceptional institution that has empowered me to achieve my dreams!... Read 4,081 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,827

• SAT range 1150-1350

• Granville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  722 reviews

Sophomore: I am extremely happy with my decision to choose Denison. I have been very pleased with my classes and professors. The professors truly care about their students and want the best for us personally and academically. The campus is beautiful and there are so many resources and opportunities to get involved. Some people complain, but I love the food here! I always find something that I like and the workers are kind. I have felt supported by Denison since my application process. The network of alumni is incredible, especially because they want to support current students in their career endeavors.... Read 722 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $38,833

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Wooster, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,364 reviews

Junior: I’m a physics major here, and I absolutely love it! The campus is BEAUTIFUL and the professors are incredibly supportive! I have had more research opportunities than I ever would have expected. I have such an amazing found family on this campus. My least favorite thing about the college is that there aren’t any big thunderstorms here :( I’m from an area that has SO many thunderstorms, and I miss that weather.... Read 1,364 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $24,934

• SAT range 1220-1430

• Athens, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,858 reviews

Alum: After graduating from Ohio University, I cannot express how influential and memorable my time as a Bobcat student truly was, each and every year. I spent all four years at OU as a full-time student. I was heavily involved in extracurriculars, from student government to intramural sports. Taking full advantage of both the friendly, family-based community and culture led to immense growth, leadership development, and life long memories. Athens, Ohio is truly one of the most magical and incredible places! The people, the community, the staff and faculty, and the students are passionate about their Bobcat family and each other. The social and party culture is awesome, but there is SO much more to OU and to Athens to love and explore. I highly recommend OU if you're looking for a hOUme away from home.... Read 3,858 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $20,496

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Ada, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  609 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman at Ohio Northern University majoring in exercise physiology. First time coming to campus was a great experience, I immediately felt at home and loved the people! There is a lot of green space on campus and everything is within a 15 minute walk. Athletic facilities are good, two weight rooms and a cardio room for students to use. Academics are great, professors really care about your success and offer help outside the classroom. Many students play sports on campus, the team environment and coaching staff is wonderful. My favorite part is seeing students pass by one another waving and saying hello, very friendly environment.... Read 609 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $25,006

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Cedarville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,233 reviews

Sophomore: Cedarville University is the real deal. If you are considering, you should absolutely, 100% go here. You would be surprised how possible that might be, definitely apply! To my experience so far (I have just finished my Freshman year), I would say it was very good overall. I am a Computer Science major, and the school is very hard at first, but you will absolutely get used to it (some majors are easy freshman year though) some not so much. The professors here are so amazing, class was literally my favorite part of the day. All were very willing to help during office hours, and all office hours fit into my schedule. People do get jobs here from what I have heard and seen and internships as well. People here all are ridiculously nice, think the nicest person you know, and that is everyone here. Cedarville is definitely conservative, but not absurdly so. The dress code is reasonable IMO. Lots of great speakers in chapel, school is very Christian, everyday chapel is a lot but good.... Read 1,233 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $25,380

• SAT range 1120-1350

• Oxford, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  3,383 reviews

Alum: Reflecting back on my Miami education, I can honestly say that the Miami network has proven to be more valuable than the education. I have landed offers from companies from the Bay Area to Chicago to Boston on the strength of the Miami alumni network. If you evaluating a school this factor should not be overlooked. My Miami years were among the best of my life, the education and experiences were first rate (including studying abroad), and the friendships have been lifelong. The alumni network has proven priceless as I have sought employment in the years (decades) following my time in Oxford! Love and honor to Miami!... Read 3,383 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,616

• SAT range 1160-1370

• Oberlin, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  671 reviews

Alum: My experience at Oberlin College was wonderful overall. Yes there were some bumps in the road socially and academically challenges but I wouldn't choose somewhere else if I could do my undergraduate over again. Key thing was having a community that looked like me and support me socially and culturally. I also built relationships with wonderful professors and staff that truly cared about me and my success because they were able to connect to each and every student, unlike giant public schools. While the party seen is pretty boring, the student life activities and events are great; there is always something happening on campus. And the natural areas around campus are gorgeous, especially in the fall.... Read 671 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $44,689

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Bowling Green, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  2,621 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Bowling Green State University has been nothing short of amazing! The atmosphere on campus is just radiant and I could not see myself at any other campus. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly, and all the staff just want you to succeed. The right-knit community just makes this university home. Students on campus, like myself, just have the best time! The only complaint I have heard comes from a commuter friend of mine who doesn’t feel that connection as strongly as I do. That is the only thing I would change about this college. Other than that, my time at BGSU has been great!... Read 2,621 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $16,684

• SAT range 1020-1210

• Berea, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,071 reviews

Junior: I chose BW because I fell in love with the campus, and I felt like I was at home when I stepped onto the campus for the first time. This campus is accepting of people from all backgrounds and has plenty of organizations like Allies, Black Student Alliance, and SALSA. The campus is also tiny, meaning that I can walk across from the very south of campus to the very north in about 10-15 minutes. It's also close to amenities like shopping and dining and is only 25 minutes from downtown Cleveland. However, I would like to see some changes. For one, there needs to be more parking for students, as the parking situation across campus could be better. I struggle to find parking for my car at any given time. The dorms also need some love, as most of them look like they last updated in the 90s. Overall, however, I love the campus, the faculty, and everything else about it. I would highly suggest BW!... Read 1,071 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $26,577

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Kent, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  4,820 reviews

Freshman: Kent State is an amazing school! They have great club academics and athletics that really cater to anyone's needs or dreams. As a poly science student I have an overwhelming amount of resources that help me in my studies, networking and making myself a better person. At first I had doubt about Kent State due to it living in the shadow of Ohio State University (I live in central Ohio near Columbus for reference.) But I was so wrong. The only thing I will say is that compared to urban universities it lack things to do BUT Kent is considered a suburban area school so for what it is it goes above my expectations overall. If your into off campus parties Kent has a great Greek Life in place and there parties are great. Like a slightly watered down version of Ohio University at Athens frat party.... Read 4,820 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $18,947

• SAT range 1000-1210

• North Canton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  523 reviews

Sophomore: This school maintains their Catholic identity fairly well and has a great campus ministry. The classes vary in difficulty, but overall the education is good. Most classes are not online, but, I would make sure to ask if your classes will be online if you're planning on taking a small major. Game Development, for example, is almost completely online. Some classes that are listed on the website are offered vary rarely or never, so I would definitely recommend talking with the head of your major before committing to this school and asking about this. I usually like the food and the housing is fine. The school is expensive, however, there are lots of scholarship opportunities that can lower the price. The school is small enough that you can find great community and some great help from professors. The library is good and the campus looks nice. The neighborhood is safe. I like that the classes run on a quick 8-week term schedule, because you can focus on only a few classes at a time.... Read 523 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $20,350

• SAT range 990-1220

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  553 reviews

Freshman: From the moment I expressed interest with Franklin University, I was immediately welcomed by their admissions and academic department. Franklin University had given me just the amount of courage and persistence I needed to continue to pursue my goal in becoming a psychiatrist. I found Franklin University while I was online researching schools of interest. I wanted an online school that was able to give me an in person experience while still being able to maintain life outside of school. I attended online school before and it wasn't half the experience I have already begun receiving from Franklin U..Once I learned Franklin University was one of the top choices for adults offering the best online Psychology Degree programs, I just knew this was a great option for me. I then became knowledgeable of how affordable, available and successful they are and I was furthermore influenced to choose Franklin University. I am excited to learn from them and encourage others to research them as well!... Read 553 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,658

• SAT range —

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  394 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Mount St. Joseph University was truly exceptional, allowing a lasting positive impact on both my academic and personal growth. The university's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community was evident from the outset. The knowledgeable and approachable faculty members played a pivotal role in my academic journey, providing not only valuable insights into their respective fields but also fostering a dynamic learning environment. The campus itself exuded a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, with state-of-the-art facilities that enhanced my educational experience. Beyond academics, Mount St. Joseph offered a plethora of extracurricular activities and clubs, allowing me to engage with like-minded peers and develop a well-rounded skill set. The emphasis on community service and social responsibility further enriched my college experience, instilling in me a sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact.... Read 394 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $17,142

• SAT range 990-1140

• University Heights, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  859 reviews

Sophomore: I really enjoy all my profs here! Everyone is so knowledgable and accessible - office hours or other meetings outside of class are so helpful and easy to plan. The profs really want you to succeed and provide all kinds of opportunities. Lots of different ways to be involved - through on campus jobs where you meet some pretty cool people, clubs, and service organizations and opportunities. The people aren't half bad either, but be ready to see some cliques. It's not a bad thing (everyone finds their niche) since groups are so flexible, but it is a small school where you will prob know of most people. Great time for fun, networking, learning, and being a young adult!... Read 859 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $28,661

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  300 reviews

Sophomore: Ohio Dominican University is an amazing place to help foster growing minds, it is also a very accepting place for everyone no matter our differences. The main thing I love about Ohio Dominican is that the student body is able to create the groups that they are looking for within the school, this makes for finding a place that you can fit in a lot easier. Another thing that is pretty amazing about the Ohio Dominican experience is that the class sizes are on the smaller size which makes it easier for students to get the help that they need on the courses that they are taking, and allows for the professors to give their students their complete attention without them feeling like they're being lost in the crowd.... Read 300 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $20,772

• SAT range 1000-1140

• Youngstown, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,443 reviews

Alum: YSU was an amazing university. The availability of classes, especially in a smaller major, made completing the degree on time very easy. The campus was clean and felt safe despite being located in a city with some unfavorable statistics. The professors were top notch, intellectual, challenging and welcoming. The Maag Library is the perfect location for a long study session (loved that as a commuter). As a single mom, working a full time job, I was still able to be a full time student at YSU. Go Penguins!... Read 1,443 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $12,290

• SAT range 930-1180

• Westerville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  717 reviews

Junior: The faculty at Otterbein University is amazing. The professors are passionate about teaching students so that they will succeed in whatever feild they go into. Otterbein also has so many opportunities for students to get involved. As a transfer student, finding a group to beling to at school was a little difficult at first. Staff members went out of their way to help me get involved! I came from a predominately online based university, so learning in person is also one of the perks for me. If you want to meet great people, learn from professionals, and be offered resources from student mentors to help you get to where you want to go... Otterbein is for you.... Read 717 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $22,138

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,976 reviews

Freshman: I can't speak for everyone, because this is coming from someone who is getting their Bachelor's in Music Education, but my overall experience in the music program at CSU has been good. There are some negative things, like a professor here or there that is rude/discriminating, or a negative unspoken competition that goes on with other musicians sometimes. But there are good things too! Most faculty are amazing people who push their students to succeed, and the friends you can make here are priceless and I can tell that my new friendships are going to last for a lifetime <3... Read 1,976 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,517

• SAT range 900-1170

• Toledo, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  2,120 reviews

Freshman: I have loved my time at UT thus far! I live in one of the dorms on campus and the amenities and proximity to everything is wonderful. Toledo gives the big school feel on a small campus and it's so easy to get around the campus to and from my classes. The university also offers help in every area- from success coaches to major advisors to athletic trainers for everyone, there is no possible way to not succeed here!... Read 2,120 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $17,764

• SAT range 1030-1280

• Alliance, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  1,154 reviews

Alum: Mount Union was my #1 choice of universities ever since I visited for a little siblings weekend when I was just 10 years old. From then on, I knew I’d be a purple raider someday. My four years there certainly lived up to the expectations I had set so early on. Mount Union is a perfectly sized institution that is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and has such a great communal feel to it. The academic programs are some of the highest rated in all of Ohio and it is very apparent why. The faculty are dedicated to their students’ success and there are ample resources for students all throughout campus. Aside from academics, another large focus at UMU is campus involvement. A very large percentage of the student body is involved in at least one to two organizations which makes for extremely well rounded individuals graduating and being successful in their lives after college. I would highly recommend UMU for your undergrad degree, no matter your intended major!... Read 1,154 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $23,750

• SAT range 980-1180