Ohio State vs Florida State

Ohio State University-Main Campus and Florida State University, both esteemed public research universities, offer distinct educational experiences. Ohio State, located in Columbus, Ohio, boasts a larger student body and a higher acceptance rate compared to Florida State, situated in Tallahassee, Florida. While Ohio State excels in engineering, business, and health sciences, Florida State shines in criminology, psychology, and social sciences. Both universities foster diverse student communities, with Ohio State having a slightly higher percentage of international students. When it comes to graduation rates, Ohio State holds a slight edge over Florida State. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison table highlighting key differences between these two exceptional institutions. Dive in to discover which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Florida State University logo

Florida State University

Ohio State University-Main Campus logo

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Overview

Location Tallahassee, Florida Columbus, Ohio
Campus setting City: Midsize City: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 94.0% 94.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 37.1% 57.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $30

Graduate: $30
Undergraduate: $60

Graduate: $60
SAT range 1180 - 1340 1250 - 1440
ACT range 26 - 30 26 - 32
Students submitting SAT score 65.0% 21.0%
Students submitting ACT score 36.0% 64.0%
Total number of applicants 65,235 58,180
Total number of admissions given out 24,183 33,269
Admitted students who chose to enroll 7,619 8,423
Yield rate 31.5% 25.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $23,476

Out of state: $36,606
In state: $27,796

Out of state: $50,879
Average net price $12,684 $19,474
Tuition
In state: $4,022

Out of state: $16,540
In state: $11,018

Out of state: $34,101
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,020

Meal plan: $4,856
$13,392
Available payment plans
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

94.0%
Average amount $10,620
72.0%
Average amount $11,830
Students receiving federal student loan 19.0%
Average amount $4,996
36.0%
Average amount $5,228
Students taking out private loans 2.0%
Average amount $13,430
6.0%
Average amount $17,841

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 33,593
Men 42.9% Women 57.1%
47,106
Men 50.3% Women 49.7%
Graduate students 11,537
Men 38.4% Women 61.6%
14,571
Men 41.6% Women 58.4%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 15.7% 25.1%
International students 4.2% 9.1%
Campus local/setting City: Midsize City: Large
Dormitory capacity 6,709 15,129
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Florida Georgia New Jersey New York Illinois Ohio New York Illinois New Jersey Pennsylvania

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Education
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Legal Profession
  • Health Professions
  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Business
  • Public Administration and Social Service
Students to faculty ratio 22:1 18:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 83.2% 88.0%
Dropout rate 10.9% 3.8%
Transferred out 5.3% 7.1%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $86,926
  • Year 2: $92,632
  • Year 3: $102,429
Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,442
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $89,448
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,610
  • Year 2: $68,305
  • Year 3: $78,263
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,971
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $78,057
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $84,179
  • Year 2: $83,177
  • Year 3: $77,718
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,794
  • Year 2: $74,576
  • Year 3: $77,527
Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,567
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $75,845
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,881
  • Year 2: $68,918
  • Year 3: $74,476
Chemistry (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $74,364
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,216
  • Year 2: $60,325
  • Year 3: $72,686
Dentistry (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $232,029
  • Year 2: $248,619
  • Year 3: $267,734
Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $177,325
  • Year 3: $228,908
Dentistry (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $116,968
  • Year 2: $121,226
  • Year 3: $143,684
Veterinary Medicine (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $155,311
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $132,262
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $108,826
  • Year 2: $104,749
  • Year 3: $125,137
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $99,951
  • Year 2: $120,498
  • Year 3: $122,881
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $91,639
  • Year 2: $108,577
  • Year 3: $115,825
Physics (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $79,371
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $107,219
Optometry (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $89,790
  • Year 2: $99,983
  • Year 3: $105,922
Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $85,188
  • Year 2: $87,470
  • Year 3: $100,687

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences in campus environment between Ohio State and Florida State?

    Ohio State University (OSU) offers a large, bustling, and traditional Big Ten campus experience in Columbus, Ohio, a major metropolitan area. Expect a strong emphasis on academics, research, and a vibrant Greek life. Florida State University (FSU), located in Tallahassee, Florida, provides a more relaxed, Southern atmosphere with a greater focus on arts, humanities, and a strong sense of community. Tallahassee is a smaller city, offering a different pace of life compared to Columbus.

  • How do the academic reputations of Ohio State and Florida State compare?

    Both universities are highly regarded, but Ohio State generally holds a slightly higher national ranking, particularly in engineering, business, and medicine. Florida State is known for its strong programs in film, law, and creative writing. Consider your specific field of study when evaluating academic reputation, as one university may be a better fit for your chosen major.

  • What is the cost of attendance difference between Ohio State and Florida State?

    The cost of attendance varies depending on residency. Generally, Ohio State is more expensive for out-of-state students compared to Florida State. For in-state students, Florida State tends to be slightly less expensive. Be sure to check the most recent tuition and fees on each university's website and factor in living expenses, which can differ significantly between Columbus and Tallahassee.

  • What are the athletic cultures like at Ohio State and Florida State?

    Both universities have passionate fan bases and strong athletic programs. Ohio State is renowned for its football program and its overall dominance in Big Ten athletics. Florida State also boasts a strong football tradition and competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Expect a lively game-day atmosphere at both schools, but Ohio State's football culture is particularly intense.

  • What types of student activities and organizations are available at each university?

    Both Ohio State and Florida State offer a wide array of student activities and organizations, catering to diverse interests. Ohio State, being a larger university, has a greater number of clubs and organizations, including a very active Greek life. Florida State also has a robust selection of clubs, with a strong emphasis on arts-related activities and community service. You'll find opportunities to get involved in academics, sports, arts, culture, and social causes at both institutions.

  • How do the locations of Ohio State and Florida State impact student life?

    Ohio State's location in Columbus, Ohio, provides access to a major city with diverse cultural attractions, job opportunities, and entertainment options. Tallahassee, Florida, offers a more relaxed, college-town atmosphere with access to outdoor activities and a lower cost of living. Consider whether you prefer the energy of a large city or the more laid-back vibe of a smaller town when making your decision.

  • What are the average class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at each university?

    Ohio State, being a larger university, generally has larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. Florida State tends to have slightly smaller class sizes, particularly in upper-level courses. While both universities have similar student-to-faculty ratios, the actual classroom experience can vary depending on the department and course level. Check specific department information for the most accurate details.

  • What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Ohio State and Florida State?

    Both universities offer comprehensive career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs. Ohio State benefits from its location in a major metropolitan area, providing access to a wider range of internship and job opportunities in various industries. Florida State also has strong connections with employers in Florida and the Southeast, particularly in government, law, and the arts. Research the career services specific to your major at each university.

  • How do the admission requirements compare between Ohio State and Florida State?

    Both universities have competitive admission requirements, with similar average GPAs and standardized test scores for admitted students. However, Ohio State may place slightly more emphasis on academic achievement, while Florida State may consider a broader range of factors, including extracurricular activities and essays. Check the specific admission requirements for your intended program of study on each university's website.

  • What is the weather like in Columbus, Ohio, compared to Tallahassee, Florida?

    Columbus, Ohio, experiences four distinct seasons, including cold winters with snow and ice. Tallahassee, Florida, has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and mild winters. Consider your preference for weather when making your decision. If you prefer warmer weather and sunshine, Florida State may be a better fit. If you enjoy experiencing all four seasons, Ohio State might be more appealing.

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