Paying for College
College is an investment in your future. We’re here to help you understand your options, find support, and make a plan that works for you and your family.
You don’t have to figure this out alone
Paying for college can feel overwhelming. The good news: most students don’t pay the full price, and there are many ways to reduce costs through financial aid, scholarships, and planning.
- $4M in CFAES scholarships awarded annually, more than any other Ohio State college
- 3 opportunities to earn scholarships from CFAES, Ohio 4-H and the Ohio State Fair
How students pay for college
CFAES scholarships
CFAES offers a wide range of scholarships based on academics, interests, leadership and involvement.
Understanding financial aid
Financial aid can include grants, scholarships, work-study and loans. It starts with completing the FAFSA every year.
Special programs and pathways
A college education is more affordable than ever. You have three new pathways to fund your education at The Ohio State University, starting in fall 2026.
The Regional Campus Commitment program covers tuition and mandatory fees for low-to-middle income, new first-year students. Specifically, the program ensures that remaining tuition and mandatory fees are covered after applying other federal, state and institutional aid.
If your family has an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $100,000 or less and have financial need (verified through FAFSA), you can start your journey at ATI in Wooster and transfer to Ohio State’s Columbus Campus with tuition and mandatory fees covered. Learn how your tuition could be covered.
Get your general education classes at Columbus State then transfer to CFAES’ Columbus Campus to finish your degree for free, tuition and mandatory fees covered, for all low- and middle-income students. Make college affordable with a new Columbus State partnership.
Score a perfect ACT or SAT and you’ll receive a full scholarship that covers tuition and academic support for four years at Ohio State. Apply for the Scholar Program.