Scholarships and grants
BGSU awards about $39 million in scholarships to incoming freshmen.
- Merit scholarships based on grades – $1,000-$9,500 a year for four years
- Thompson Working Families Scholarship – up to $11,000 a year for students who show need, academic success and community service
- Sidney A. Ribeau President’s Leadership Academy – full in-state tuition for student leaders
Loans
- Federal or private loans can bridge the gap after scholarships and grants.
- $18,255 – average total student loan amount for a BGSU bachelor’s degree
- Our student loan default rate is well below the national average. This shows that our graduates are able to repay what they borrow.
Jobs
Many students work part-time during college, often through federal work-study.
It helps pay the bill – and builds real-world skills.
Your return on investment
If you're still wondering whether college is worth it, the answer is yes – especially at BGSU.
Public university in Ohio for career prep
The Wall Street Journal
Public university in Ohio for learning facilities
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public university in Ohio for learning opportunities
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Nationally recognized for student experience
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The bottom line
College is a serious investment – an investment in you. At BGSU, it’s one that pays off.
Don’t take our word for it. For six years in a row, our students have spoken loud and clear about the value of their BGSU experience.
Top 5 university in the nation – #1 university in Ohio – students say they’d choose again
The Wall Street Journal
Ready to explore more about BGSU?
Updated: 08/27/2026 09:57PM