Graduate admissions Steps to apply 5. Apply online

Some graduate programs use Ohio State's regular application; others use a centralized or third-party application service. TO APPLY: Check the apply tab under your program listing for a link to the correct application for your program.

Have the documents you will need to upload with your application on hand as you apply. In general, this means a copy of your official transcript — but some programs require other documents, too. You'll be asked to attach required materials and pay your nonrefundable application fee before you can submit the application.

• If you have trouble with Ohio State's regular or supplemental application, consult these helpful tips.
• If you need to change or correct information on an already submitted application, please contact Graduate and Professional Admissions.

Pay the application fee

A nonrefundable $60 fee for U.S. students and $70 for international students is charged for each regular or supplemental application you submit to Ohio State for graduate study. Your application is not processed until you pay your application fee and the fee is authorized. We accept American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa.

The application fee is non-refundable. If you submit an application in error, the application fee will not be refunded.

Fee waivers

You may be able to request a fee waiver on the application if you've previously enrolled in an Ohio State graduate or professional program, have limited financial resources, or participated in select diversity programs. Waiver requests may cause a delay in processing your application. It is recommended that you apply at least 10 days early to avoid missing your program’s deadline.

A note about deadlines

Your application must be complete with all supporting materials by the application deadline. Be aware that deadlines are receipt deadlines, not postmark deadlines.

DACA status

Read special application instructions for applicants who hold Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival status.

Once you have submitted your regular or supplemental application, send proof of your DACA status to Graduate and Professional Admissions. Proof of DACA status can be a copy of the I797 Notice of Action approving the I821D or your case number or USCIS Alien Number.

Other considerations

• Were you previously enrolled in a graduate program at Ohio State?
  • Applicants previously enrolled in a graduate degree program should select “Intra-University Transfer” on the graduate application.
  • Applicants previously enrolled in non-degree graduate study do not need to reapply to enroll again in non-degree study. Contact Graduate School Registration Services at grad-schoolregistrationservices@osu.edu or 614-292-6031 for information about eligibility to re-enroll.
  • Applicants previously enrolled in non-degree graduate study who wish to apply to a degree program must submit a regular degree-seeking application.

  Activate your Ohio State username to check the status of your application

  After you submit your application, we'll email instructions for activating your Ohio State username and creating a password. Refer to the instructions we emailed to you, or begin at my.osu.edu by clicking "Activate Now."

  These credentials will allow you to log in to check your application status and keep an eye on outstanding requirements. It is your responsibility to make sure your application to Ohio State is complete.

  Submit outstanding documentation

  For those using Ohio State's regular application, if you need to submit a document after you've applied, use our Admissions Uploader. (If you're submitting materials after the deadline, communicate directly with your intended graduate program to see if late documents are accepted. Some programs adhere strictly to deadlines, while others allow more flexibility.)

  For those using an application service, note that most materials must be sent directly to the service, unless otherwise specified.