Top 6 Tuition-Free Online Colleges in Ohio

While colleges and universities provide valuable career training and marketable skills, the cost of tuition can exclude some students.

Thankfully, there are a number of programs that allow some students to earn college degrees at little or no cost.

Free college in Ohio can give students access to career opportunities and enable greater social mobility.

Many students are unaware that they may be eligible for programs granting them free or reduced-cost college tuition. We've created a list of six colleges that offer free tuition in Ohio.

Online Colleges and Universities with Free Courses

Here are some exciting programs offering free college in Ohio.

1. Ohio University

Ohio University has started a new program allowing students to gain access to free college thanks to their Ohio Regional Promise program.

Students must graduate from high school with a 3.0 GPA, be eligible for the Pell Grant, and enroll in one of Ohio University's five regional campuses.

This program will cover the remaining costs of tuition after the Pell Grant and any mandatory fees associated with their degree.

In order to apply, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply to a regional campus.

2. Shawnee State University

Shawnee State University (SSU) provides tuition free college for Ohio residents that have a 3.0 GPA, scored at least an 18 on the ACT, qualify for the Pell Grant, and enroll full time at SSU.

Qualifying students must be residents of Scioto, Adams, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Jackson, Highland, Gallia, Vinton, and Brown Counties in Ohio. Residents of Greenup, Lewis, or Boyd Counties in Kentucky can also apply.

Prospective students do not need to apply separately for the free tuition program, as eligibility will be assessed as part of the admissions process.

3. Columbus State Community College

Earn a free associate degree in Ohio at Columbus State Community College (CSCC) through their Columbus Promise program.

Qualifying students will receive free tuition and a $500 scholarship per semester to use toward the cost of books or other school-related costs.

To see if you qualify for the program, complete the FAFSA, apply to CSCC, and apply for the Columbus Promise program.

Contact the admissions team to learn more about becoming a Columbus Promise Scholar.

4. Otterbein University

Otterbein University (OU) supports low-income students by providing an opportunity to earn a free degree in Ohio.

OU has promised to meet the financial needs of students receiving the Ohio College Opportunity Grant by covering the remaining cost of tuition through scholarships and grants.

Most students who receive this financial support have a family income around $30,000.

This program provides an excellent pathway to higher education without the use of loans for students who may otherwise not have access to a degree.

5. Antioch College

The Antioch College's Works scholarship covers the full tuition costs for students who would not be able to afford a degree.

This scholarship will cover the remaining tuition costs after the Pell Grant and any other federal financial aid is applied.

There are many other scholarship opportunities available at Antioch College that can be combined with federal grants and scholarships to greatly reduce or eliminate tuition costs.

6. Ohio State University

Students at Ohio State University have the chance to graduate debt-free through the Scarlet and Grey Advantage program.

This program helps students cover the cost of their degree through scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and paid internships.

This program prepares students for graduation through internships, work experience, and career coaching services. 60% of students receiving the scholarship are the first generation in their family to attend college.

How To Make College Free

Free college in Ohio can be a reality through a range of programs offered within the state.

In addition to institution-specific programs, students should be aware of grants, scholarships, reimbursement programs, and tuition waivers that may be generally available to qualifying students.

Apply for Grants

Grants are one of the best ways to reduce the cost of college tuition. Grants are typically non-repayable and have little downside for students who can qualify for them.

For example, the Pell Grant is a federal program offering significant financial aid to qualifying students. Students will typically need to file a FAFSA to determine their eligibility.

Other grants available to Ohio students include:

• Ohio College Opportunity Grant
• Second Chance Grant
• Choose Ohio First Grant
• College Comeback Grant

Apply for Scholarships

Similar to grants, scholarships are a source of funding that can reduce or eliminate tuition costs.

Some scholarships are awarded on the basis of achievements or academic excellence, while other scholarships are presented to members of certain groups.

Several scholarships potentially enabling free college in Ohio include:

• Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund
• Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship
• Ohio Hidden Heroes

Get Tuition Reimbursement from an Employer

Employer reimbursement programs are yet another way to get free college in Ohio.

The details of the program will depend on your employer, so be sure to ask your employer if they offer any tuition reimbursement programs to their employees.

Look Into Tuition and Fee Waivers

There are several ways to get tuition or fee waivers in Ohio. Students should look into programs such as the Forever Buckeyes which grants reduced-cost tuition to students moving back to the state.

Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree in Ohio Today

College tuition costs can be daunting. Don't let finances keep you from reaching your potential and pursuing your dream career.

Finding ways to access free college in Ohio can open doors that will change your future forever.