10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Ohio

There's no question that affordability is one of the biggest hurdles to higher education. Another hurdle is finding the time to earn your degree. Luckily, many online programs accept the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA can help online learners in Ohio and other states find financial aid to cover their tuition costs.

FAFSA isn't just for on-campus programs — many online schools accept FAFSA as well. Keep reading to discover online colleges that accept FAFSA in Ohio.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Ohio

Ohio is home to several colleges and universities that offer online programs and accept FAFSA for online students. We've featured ten of these programs below. All schools listed hold regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission.

1. Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University is a public research university in Bowling Green, OH. It offers in-person and online bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• education
• healthcare and nursing

To use FAFSA at Bowling Green State University, use the code 003018 when filling out your FAFSA. As BGSU is a public school, Ohio residents will pay lower, in-state tuition than out-of-state residents. For those who are still looking for financial assistance, state and federal grants, as well as institutional scholarships are available.

2. Franklin University

Franklin University is a private, nonprofit university with its main campus in Columbus, OH. It's geared toward adult learners, so many programs are available online. Online undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in areas of study such as:

• business
• criminal justice
• healthcare
• technology

Franklin University's FAFSA code is 003046. This will help you qualify for federal and state aid and institutional and independent scholarships.

3. Muskingum University

Muskingum University is a private, nonprofit, Presbyterian university in New Concord, OH. In addition to on-campus programs, it offers full bachelor's degrees and bachelor's completion programs in fields such as:

• business management
• criminal justice
• education
• healthcare and nursing

Online students can use the code 003084 for Muskingum University on their FAFSA. Several federal and state grants and scholarships are available to students at this institution.

4. Ohio Christian University

Ohio Christian University is a private, nonprofit Christian college in Circleville, OH. It offers in-person programs as well as online associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees in areas of study like:

• business
• healthcare
• ministry
• social sciences

Ohio Christian University's FAFSA code is 003030. This will allow students in online degree programs to obtain federal, state, institutional, and independent financial aid.

5. Ohio State University

Ohio State University is a public research university in Columbus, OH. It offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs online in fields such as:

• business administration
• healthcare and nursing
• information technology
• social work

Students in online courses at OSU can use the code 003090 for FAFSA. Students in bachelor's degree programs may be eligible for the school's Scarlet and Gray Advantage program, which helps them graduate debt-free.

6. Ohio University

Ohio University is a public research university based in Athens, OH. In addition to in-person programs, it offers undergraduate and graduate programs online through its Ohio Online format in areas of study like:

• business
• communication
• healthcare and nursing
• social sciences

Using the code 003100 will allow Ohio University students to access financial aid. This includes the university's various programs to help Ohio residents graduate with less debt.

7. Tiffin University

Tiffin University is a private, nonprofit university in Tiffin, OH. It offers multiple bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees online in fields such as:

• business
• computer science
• criminal justice
• healthcare management

Online learning students can use code 003121 to receive financial aid at Tiffin University. The university accepts federal and state grants and partners with several corporations to provide scholarships.

8. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati is a public research university in Cincinnati, OH. It offers many of its programs online, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas of study like:

• business
• healthcare and nursing
• information technology
• social work

UC's FAFSA code is 003125. As a public university, Ohio residents pay a lower tuition rate, and the university also has lower tuition agreements for students in Indiana and Kentucky.

9. University of Toledo

The University of Toledo is a public research university in Toledo, OH. In addition to on-campus programs, online programs are available in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• healthcare and nursing
• information technology

College students can use the code 003131 for the university when filling out FAFSA. Like the other public universities on this list, in-state students pay a lower tuition rate, however, the difference for online programs is only a few dollars more per semester.

10. Walsh University

Walsh University is a private, nonprofit Roman Catholic university in North Canton, OH. It offers several of its bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and certificate programs online in areas of study like:

• business
• computer science
• healthcare
• social sciences

Walsh University's FAFSA code is 003135. Online students can use this code to help pay for online classes and lower their tuition costs.

Applying for FAFSA in Ohio

FAFSA is a federal form that all students should fill out if they're interested in receiving student aid. It determines if students are eligible for federal and state programs, but many institutions and independent scholarships require you to have completed the FAFSA.

Eligibility

There are few eligibility requirements for completing the FAFSA. You must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen and must be planning to pursue higher education.

There is no income limit to apply for FAFSA; while you may not qualify for certain types of student aid, all students who have financial need should apply for FAFSA. FAFSA can be used for undergraduate and graduate programs, full-time and part-time programs, community colleges and four-year universities, and in-person and online schools.

Steps To Apply

There are three basic steps to applying for the FAFSA. First, you must create an account through StudentAid.gov.

Next, you'll need to gather all the information you'll need. This includes:

• school codes for all schools you're applying to
• information on your parents, if you're still a dependent, or your spouse, if you're married, including full names, dates of birth, and social security numbers
• income and asset information for your family

Once you've got everything, you'll begin filling out the FAFSA form. On average, it takes about an hour to complete.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Ohio

Ohio residents can take advantage of several state-funded programs that work alongside FAFSA to make online college more affordable. These programs can help you cover tuition, books, and other educational expenses while pursuing your degree remotely.

Ohio College Opportunity Grant

The Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) provides need-based financial aid to Ohio residents attending eligible colleges, including approved online programs. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and meet specific income and enrollment requirements.

Online students can apply OCOG funds toward tuition and mandatory fees at public and private institutions across the state. The grant is renewable each year, making it a reliable resource for long-term financial support.

Choose Ohio First Scholarship

The Choose Ohio First Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) fields. Many participating institutions offer online STEMM programs eligible for this funding.

Applicants must complete the FAFSA and apply directly through their chosen college or university. This scholarship aims to strengthen Ohio's workforce in high-demand industries while providing flexible learning opportunities.

Ohio War Orphans and Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship

This scholarship provides tuition assistance to the children of deceased or severely disabled veterans who served in the U.S. armed forces. Eligible students must be Ohio residents enrolled in an undergraduate program, including online degrees at state institutions.

The award covers a significant portion of tuition and instructional fees. It's a meaningful way for military families to access quality education while minimizing financial stress.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Ohio

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about using FAFSA for college in Ohio.

What Are Some Myths About Online Education With FAFSA?

One of the biggest myths about FAFSA is that you can't use it for online programs. This isn't true. You can use FAFSA if the program comes from an accredited institution.

Do I Need To Fill Out the FAFSA To Get Financial Aid in Ohio?

Yes, you must fill out the FAFSA to get financial aid in Ohio and the rest of the country. Nearly all types of financial aid require you to fill out FAFSA first.

Can I Update My FAFSA After Submitting It?

Yes, you can update or correct your FAFSA after submission if you notice errors or your financial situation changes. Simply log in to your FAFSA account, make the necessary edits, and resubmit your application so your schools receive the most accurate information.

What Happens After I Submit My FAFSA for Ohio Colleges?

Once you submit your FAFSA for Ohio colleges, you'll be assessed for federal and state financial aid. Your information will be passed to your college or university, where they'll determine what institutional aid you qualify for. You'll also be able to apply for independent student aid.

Find an Affordable Online College in Ohio

Ohio offers multiple opportunities to make online education affordable through FAFSA and state-funded aid. Explore accredited degree options on Learn.org and connect with schools to compare programs and financial aid resources that fit your goals.