Why Study at BG

#1 public university in the Midwest students would choose again

The Wall Street Journal

BGSU has been a public university for more than 113 years. Our motto – a public university for the public good – defines who we are. We believe it’s our shared responsibility to ensure you are successful in college, earn a degree and are prepared for a meaningful career and life.

Contact our Admissions team

issrecruit@bgsu.edu
419.372.2247

Group of students talking on campus and posing with their talons up

BGSU at a glance

Bowling Green State University is a high-research, nationally ranked public university in Ohio.

20,000

Enrolled students

200

Majors & programs

80+

Graduate programs

9

Academic colleges

BGSU students sharing a meal, playing in the fall leaves, and posing for a picture

Safe, convenient location

BGSU is located in Bowling Green, Ohio, in the heart of the friendly Midwest. Bowling Green is a small town with a population of about 30,000 people. It has been rated one of the 50 safest college towns in the U.S. and the #1 safest college town in Ohio for a public university (Research.com)

Our campus is located on more than 5 square kilometers (1,132 acres). But you can easily walk or bike across it in about 10-15 minutes. A free shuttle can transport you around campus and within the city.

Downtown Bowling Green is an easy walk from campus.

  • Coffee shops and restaurants
  • Local bookstores and other retail shops
  • Parks, bike trails and nature preserves
A map of the US with BGSU and surrounding locations marked

Welcoming campus

"It feels like home." That’s what our students often say. We actively engage our community to create a kind, supportive environment where all members – including international students – can thrive. We believe that our community is richer when we all bring our unique perspectives, experiences and talents to the table.

Learn more about the day-to-day life of an international student on the BGSU campus

High-quality, affordable education

You won’t find many universities that offer the outstanding education and opportunities that BGSU provides – along with the incredible value and return on investment. 

  • Our Falcon Tuition Guarantee locks in tuition for four years for undergraduate students.
  • We offer generous scholarships for graduate and undergraduate students, as well as graduate assistantships for high-achieving international students.
  • Choose from more than 400+ undergraduate and graduate programs across fields from business and engineering to the arts and sciences. You can explore multiple interests through minors, double majors or interdisciplinary programs.
  • BGSU offers a global perspective in its curriculum. International students will find that many professors incorporate diverse viewpoints into their teaching, which can be valuable for cross-cultural exchange.

One of America’s best college towns

Hands-on learning opportunities

What’s the best way to learn? By putting the skills and knowledge you learn in the classroom into practice in the real world. Many of our degree programs have opportunities for internships, co-ops and the hands-on experiences that prepare you for your future career.

BGSU also has strong research opportunities, especially in fields like engineering, science and business. You can get involved in research projects even as an undergraduate.

A student in the lab and another student graduating

#1 public university in Ohio for student experience

The Wall Street Journal

Exceptional career preparation

The Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections at BGSU offers all the tools you need to find a rewarding job when you graduate. Career coaches work with you to develop a personalized plan.

  • Support in finding internships and co-ops
  • Professional skill development
  • Connections to industries and alumni in your field who can help guide you – and maybe even hire you
  • Job fairs 

98% of BGSU graduates are employed, in graduate school or launching a business within six months of graduating.

Unbeatable support

“It’s not where you go to school, it’s how you go to school.” That is what our University President Rodney K. Rogers likes to say. 

We know that deep, relevant experiences lead to student success. That is why BGSU offers so much support – from the day you arrive on campus until you graduate. We want you to get involved and take advantage of all the opportunities we offer.

Academic

  • Academic advisors – They help you navigate courses, select majors and plan for graduation.
  • Life Design – We are the only university in the U.S. that offers this unique program to all undergraduates on such a big scale. Coaches help you explore academic paths and careers and connect to mentors. They give you the tools to make the most of your time at BGSU and prepare for life beyond college.
  • Tutoring and writing assistance – Get help with writing, math and other subjects at the Learning Commons.
  • Early alert system – If a professor is worried about your progress in class, they send an early alert to you, your academic advisor and the International Programs and Partnerships office. You have a team behind you, ready to help you succeed and stay on track.
  • English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) – The ESOL program is available if you need additional support with English.

Health and wellness

  • Physical and emotional health resources – BGSU is dedicated to your health. We even have a chief well-being officer! You’ll have access to our counseling center, recreation center, therapy dogs and a host of other resources to stay healthy.

Social

  • International ambassadors – These students have been where you are and are available to help you with the transition to BGSU and life in the U.S.
  • Live with and learn from American and other international students who share an interest in other cultures. The supportive Global Village Learning Community offers opportunities to engage in social and academic activities that broaden your horizons.
  • The Office of International Programs and Partnerships hosts social events for international students throughout the year.
"I wanted to become an International Student Ambassador because I understood firsthand the challenges of being a new international student. I recognized the importance of having support and guidance during the transition period."
– Desire Senam Okpattah, doctoral student in sociology
Anyako, Ghana

#1 university in Ohio for career preparation

The Wall Street Journal

Updated: 07/02/2025 03:55PM