2023 Best Value Colleges in Ohio

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  119 reviews

Senior: AMAZING clinical experiences and opportunities! Professors at the Lancaster campus are driven and care immensely about student education.... Read 119 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $14,454

• SAT range —

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,727 reviews

Sophomore: Case is not only supportive to its students, but the students themselves really care for each other. The challenging academics makes this very important, and having that support is great. You will learn an immense amount, especially if you get involved in clubs. I am apart of Case Rocket Team and I enjoy my time and friends in the club immensely. The projects we work on are insane, and combined with classes I am plenty busy! I feel as though people in these reviews mostly love the university for its opportunities, but some bash on it for not being the most socially active. Honestly your experience comes down to what you do! There are a lot of clubs, organizations, research opportunities, and of course greek life to have a good social life. Also the location is very nice and there is plenty to do.... Read 1,727 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $36,002

• SAT range 1340-1520

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  5,662 reviews

Sophomore: I love THE Ohio State University. I fit in there all around. There are so many things that students can get involved in, from going to sporting events to volunteering your time to train dogs. The athletics at Ohio State are always fun to watch. I love watching volleyball and wrestling. There is something for everyone. I enjoyed my job at the coffee shop on campus, and really enjoyed my classes. My roommate and I really enjoyed the football games and getting to know everyone in our hall. My classes and professors that I have had are all great. I have learned so much, especially about myself already. The TA's are all very helpful and understanding, and usually always available. I have found different ways to study, and study groups have been successful. I have made lifelong friends at Ohio State. I knew that I could not go wrong with my choice. And I know after graduation, I will have a fraternity of Ohio State graduates supporting me around the world. Go Bucks!... Read 5,662 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $18,884

• SAT range 1210-1430

• Marietta , OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  376 reviews

Senior: Marietta College is a place to grow. People are largely incredibly friendly, including faculty and staff on campus. Everywhere you go, you will know someone and be able to say hello. Student life could be improved - more personalized events and activities that are just more in touch with the current student body. A lot of events have been downsized since COVID, obviously, but even pre-COVID events felt out of tune. Education-wise, you will be challenged, but you will also be cared for. Professors look out for you and are almost always willing to work with you if you have fallen behind or are having a hard time in general. Mental health services could be better, but the ladies in H&W are amazing. All in all, a solid college experience.... Read 376 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $20,249

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,437 reviews

Junior: The college search process prior to UD was tough. I had been accepted into cheaper colleges, ‘higher ranked’ colleges, I had been accepted into closer colleges, and more, but after touring campus and learning about the UD community, I knew without a doubt that Dayton was the best overall college by far for me. Between the absolutely stunning campus, one of a kind student neighborhood, beautiful chapel, and genuinely kind people, my college decision was not difficult. Dayton's academic program is strong enough to open doors to anywhere someone wants to work towards, but the most valuable learning comes from outside class. UD's community holistically grows individuals into the best versions of themselves, provides happiness and great mental balance, and is a ton of fun. Cannot recommend enough!... Read 1,437 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $32,768

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Ada, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  593 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 593 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $26,011

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Cedarville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  1,196 reviews

Sophomore: I have loved attending Cedarville University. I have learned so much in my time there. It is a small enough campus that you see people you know all the time, but there’s always someone new to meet! The professors are intentional about building relationships and helping you succeed by pushing students to their full potential. I developed deeper friendships than I expected, even in my first year. Discipleship is so important to Cedarville University. Something I would like to see change would be the communication between students and management. I think much improvement can be made in the communication between the students and the faculty and staff. I believe that open communication will allow students to see the reasons behind the decisions being made and those decision-makers would be able to see how those decisions affect the students. Overall, I love Cedarville University and attending has made a big impact on my life.... Read 1,196 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $24,965

• SAT range 1110-1350

• Gambier, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  396 reviews

Niche User: My son is planning to go and from visits, as well as discussions with other students, we can tell it’s a special, amazing place. With a recent $100 million donation, they are building 3 new dorms, renovating some dorms, and tearing down some. The library and athletic complex are spectacular. A modern light filled building is almost complete that will house the center for American democracy, political science and history departments. The science center is gorgeous. Upper class houses are amazing and allow groups of friends to live together in rows of real houses, with outdoor areas etc. The students he spoke to all said they have a great time on weekends, so much so that even those who plan to go on road trips often bail at the last minute bc they don’t want to miss out. Academics are top notch and professors are exemplary, approachable and caring. Its academic reputation is clear when you look at the list of grad schools students attend.... Read 396 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $40,862

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Pepper Pike, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  307 reviews

Junior: Ursuline has been great! It is a small college making it easy for staff to be very personable, which I love, your not just a number, your a person with a name and goals that they want you to achieve. I can really tell that everyone truly cares about you and wants you to succeed! They have so many great resources and have been super accommodating. It is majority a female school, however males are welcome, this is something I wish they advertised more, as well as their various programs although they are known for nursing.... Read 307 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $17,220

• SAT range 940-1120

• University Heights, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  829 reviews

Alum: I really enjoyed my time and overall experience at JCU. It has great academics with professors who genuinely care and want to see students succeed. It is a small and beautiful campus that strives to be a positive and accepting community where you can make friends and find groups you fit in with. The school puts a lot of effort into ensuring students have a variety of activities that they can partake in and enjoy both on and off campus from sports like rowing, ultimate frisbee, soccer, and so many more to clubs for interests in STEM, education, animal welfare, politics, and many more. Not to mention, there are other activities like concerts and movie nights! Although JCU is a Jesuit Catholic university, it embraces and celebrates all beliefs and dedicates events, days, and weeks to gaining a better and deeper understanding of others and their culture and beliefs. I sincerely appreciated my experience at JCU because of the academic opportunities, friendships, and inclusive environment.... Read 829 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $28,805

• SAT range 1060-1260

• Westerville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  702 reviews

Freshman: After my first year at Otterbein, I learned so much and have met so many new people. I love how Otterbein is a smaller school, and you are able to get extra help from the professors. You can tell they really do care about you and want to see you achieve your goals, especially if you have a fairly difficult major like biochemistry. The only thing I would possibly like to see change is more cultural appreciation as in different activities or events hosted at the campus. I loved the study abroad fair because it showed exactly this! Otterbein is a great school and I am glad I chose to go there.... Read 702 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,229

• SAT range 990-1240

• Steubenville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  823 reviews

Alum: I transferred to this school spring of 2020. I needed a more faith-filled environment, a Catholic one and this school was it. Franciscan is academically a challenge, which is good. They have numerous clubs and activities to be a part of and have a lot to offer regarding the faith. The professors are amazing and really care about you. It can be somewhat overwhelming at times, but the main thing is to just meet new people and focus on your studies. The only issue I had were roommates. I had a few roomie issues and had to switch. Going random isn't the best idea all the time. However, most people are compatible. The dorms are pretty nice. Some don't have AC which can be hard. The Heights could use some renovating, big time. The food is pretty good, and the cafe on campus is great! The atmosphere is great too and the campus is lovely in the spring. Overall, it's a pretty good school.... Read 823 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $25,175

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  3,951 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Cincinnati is a great school to attend especially if you live in the state of Ohio. I am in my sophomore year and still love it. I would recommend the school to anyone that takes an interest especially if it is in the engineering field. While some material is challenging, the engineering classes are good to have for any engineering background. The main reason I came was the co-op program which is an amazing opportunity to learn about what engineers do as well as be able to pay off student loans. Overall, this school has given me a great experience. Go Bearcats!... Read 3,951 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $22,767

• SAT range 1120-1330

• Oxford, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,300 reviews

Junior: My first year at Miami University was a year full of covid and regulations, but my friends and I agree students at Miami University got the best college experience during the pandemic. Even the dorms that are considered 'old' are renovated and very nice. There is always something to do, whether it be socially going out or events that Miami organizations hold, like very reputable speakers and whatnot. I participate in Greek life, and it is a great way to make more connections and network within both Fraternities and Sororities. The campus is safe, clean, and beautiful. My classes are challenging but in a preparatory way. People assume all Miami kids are 'rich' but that is simply not the truth. I support myself financially and still have as much fun as the 'rich' kids. The Oxford atmosphere cannot be beaten, and my family loves coming to visit me and going out to bars & restaurants. Life truly feels simple here!... Read 3,300 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $24,345

• SAT range 1160-1370

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  386 reviews

Sophomore: Mount St. Joseph University exceeds expectations in academics and student life. The small community allows students to connect closely with professors, make lifelong friends, and expand their network. Mount St. Joseph provides an array of majors and minors that prepare students for future careers after graduation. As a student in the biology department, I receive a quality education with small class sizes, research opportunities, and cooperative education positions. With a majority of students that participate in athletics, the Mount offers excellent sports programs and facilities. As a lacrosse team member, I can get involved on campus and make friends who share similar interests with me. Thus far, I have appreciated every college feature the Mount has offered me, and I cannot think of any aspect I would like to see changed. Mount St. Joseph University provides an exceptional college experience with academics and extracurriculars that will suit any student's interest.... Read 386 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $18,646

• SAT range 950-1140

• Granville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.46 out of 5  686 reviews

Freshman: Denison provides everything I need and more. The opportunities are endless both on campus and off. There is always something going on, every night of the week. The staff and professors are encouraging and supportive and my classmates are collaborative, not competitive. Music department lets you play without being a music major. The town of Granville has terrific food and there are shuttles that take you into Columbus. There are parties if you want but plenty of other activities, too. I always feel safe. Some of the dorms are old school but improvements happen every year. I have never been around such friendly people before and the academics are challenging but very manageable.... Read 686 reviews

• grade A

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $39,808

• SAT range 1220-1430

• North Canton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  517 reviews

Freshman: I actually love Walsh! Everyone was so friendly even the current students! Walsh was really my top 3 colleges to pick from. Everything was so clear, the housing, deposits and the application. I wouldn’t have chose a better college to attend. They also really try to help me apply to more and more scholarships and was very encouraging! My admission councilor response time was the greatest, i never waited more than a day for a response. Overall, Walsh deserves 5 stars!... Read 517 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $19,792

• SAT range 960-1170

• Athens, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  3,767 reviews

Freshman: I'm currently a freshman at Ohio University and just recently completed my first semester and I love it here! Professors are great and super friendly creating an amazing class environment open to questions without any judgment. The atmosphere here is also very positive and inclusive, Ohio University promotes diversity which I believe is a noble trait for a university. The university also has so many clubs and student organizations, making it very easy for you to find friends with similar interests to you.... Read 3,767 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $23,307

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  161 reviews

Sophomore: I loved how small the classrooms were so you could have easier one on one time with professors! Also, all of my professors so far have been so nice & helpful with guiding me through my classes. One of the reasons why I chose Christ is because it is connected to the hospital and had plenty of job opportunities the whole time throughout your nursing career!... Read 161 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $17,501

• SAT range 1000-1090

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  536 reviews

Junior: So far I’ve had an excellent experience! Franklin University is definitely a school that caters to mature working students that have competing priorities/responsibilities. Their website is user-friendly and contains a lots of information for new students that will help you navigate through course material and generalized school information.... Read 536 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,658

• SAT range —

• Delaware, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  640 reviews

Graduate Student: I am an international student. My life at Ohio Wesleyan University was great! I remember, as yesterday, when they picked me up from an airport. I guess not many schools do that. The international office was very helpful throughout my life. Since the classes were small, compared to big schools, I was able to get professors' assistanship a lot.... Read 640 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $26,628

• SAT range 990-1250

• Ashland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  780 reviews

Junior: Ashland University is a small school, but it's a really great school. There are plenty of food options, and the dorms are pretty well kept (I recommend Myers hall!) The professors actually care for you and want you to succeed, and since it's a small school, they actually know who you are and form a connection with you. Not to mention it's a beautiful campus, more then once I've had to stop and admire the view. As a private school, they do require 1 religion core, and the only change I would like to see is that there were more class options to fill this requirement. Overall, I highly recommend Ashland to anybody!... Read 780 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $20,911

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,154 reviews

Alum: Xavier University provided me with lifelong friendships and a stellar Jesuit education which has given me a lot of opportunities to grow professionally since graduating in 1996. The small class sizes and teacher to student ratio was very beneficial to me. Cincinnati is a terrific city to live in, offering so many amenities in terms of tourist attractions, sports, restaurants and more. I met people from all over the country and the world when enrolled at Xavier with this diverse mix of their student body. I plan to send one of my sons to Xavier next Fall to afford him with these same positive experiences that have impacted my life to greatly.... Read 1,154 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $34,945

• SAT range 1060-1250

• Berea, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,053 reviews

Senior: I love Baldwin Wallace. The education school not only gets you into a classroom in your first year, it also helps with all the things you need in your classroom. This does not mean just what we need to teach, but also classroom management, teaching styles, and multiple things that help us organize. Over all BW is an amazing place to be and helped me truly become who I am. Even though I am not done, I truly believe they will have me more than ready after college!... Read 1,053 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $25,274

• SAT range 1040-1260

• Mount Vernon, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  555 reviews

Senior: Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a great school for a variety of majors. The education program is definitely well-rounded and I feel prepared for the education field upon graduation. The advisors are available by phone and email, rather quickly, and if they aren't available right away, they're able to get back to you within a day, usually, which has been incredibly helpful in trying to figure out academics, scheduling, necessary graduation requirements, and financial aid. The online undergrad program is the best choice for working adults and students that have their own families, because almost everything is online and you don't get more than 2 classes at a time most semesters, so you can really focus on specific courses as you go. The only improvement I would suggest would be to have more involvement of adult program students with traditional undergrad program events and special services (so that the adult students actually feel like they are part of the university's program).... Read 555 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $22,280

• SAT range 980-1250