Graduate admissions Steps to apply 4. Prepare required materials

Required of all applicants

Transcripts

Ohio State only accepts official transcripts. Read transcript requirements to learn what and when to submit.

Letters of recommendation

We'll ask you to provide names and contact information for your references on the online application. Your references should be acquainted with your academic program, scholastic ability or professional performance. Most programs require three references. Find your program to read about program-specific criteria.

Within a few days of submitting your application, an invitation will be emailed to each reference with a link to our online form. Ohio State doesn't accept letters of reference submitted from third parties.

Letters of recommendation FAQs

Who should I select as a reference?

Choose faculty members or others familiar with your qualifications and potential for graduate study. Contact your program if you're not sure if a reference you have in mind is suitable.

How do I manage and remind my references?

Manage (edit, add, delete, remind) your references by logging in to the Application References Summary. You'll need your Ohio State username and password to log in. If you haven't activated your username and set up your password, begin at my.osu.edu by clicking "Activate Now."

Should I waive access to my letters?

According to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), students have the right to inspect their records, including letters of recommendation. Some of your references may believe that letters written in confidence are the most honest assessment of a student's readiness for graduate study. Some will not provide a letter unless an applicant waives their right to access it.

Ask your references their preference before filling out the References section of the admissions application. In the References section of the application, you'll be able to select "Waive access."

What if I'm having trouble with the online form?

If you've submitted your online application and one of your references hasn't received an invitation, ask them to check their junk folder for an email from gpadmissions@osu.edu. You can also log into the Application References Summary to verify their email address.

What if my reference is having trouble with the online form?

If your reference is having trouble submitting the letter, they may email a signed letter of recommendation on business letterhead along with a completed Graduate School Reference Form to gpadmissions@osu.edu.

If they continue to have trouble, ask them to reach out to us at 614-292-9444 or gpadmissions@osu.edu.

Important notes:

If you are applying to more than one program (you may apply to three in a term), a separate application and fee are required for each program, as are separate recommendation letters. Only one set of transcripts and test scores is needed, however, unless otherwise requested by a program.
You are advised to keep a copy of your application materials. The application and all supporting documents become the property of Ohio State and cannot be returned to the applicant, forwarded to another institution, or duplicated for any purpose other than the Ohio State application review and admission process.
Considering using AI? You are responsible for developing your own ideas in your statement of purpose, admissions essay and CV. If you’re considering using AI to help, you are advised to ask the program you’re applying to if this is permitted and, if it is, what their policy is for proper use.

Required of some applicants

Standardized test score

A test score (GRE or GMAT) is recommended if:

your last degree earned is from an unaccredited college or university and your program requires the score
the cumulative GPA for your last degree earned is below 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) and your program requires the score

Test scores (GRE or GMAT) must be sent electronically from the testing agency. Faxed or emailed scores are not considered.

Ohio State’s institutional code: 1592
Exception: Fisher College of Business applicants should use: 3546

Plan to test no later than six weeks prior to your application deadline to allow official test scores to arrive in time. Note: Scores are valid for five years after your test date.

Curriculum vitae/resume

If your program requests it, you may submit a CV or resume of no more than two pages on the online application. Note: A CV/resume is required for all applicants who wish to be considered for a fellowship.

Statement of purpose

If your program requests it, you may submit a brief autobiographical statement on the online application describing your educational and professional goals and objectives.

Additional application requirements

Some programs may also require a portfolio, an audition, writing samples, specific tests or a departmental application. Refer to your program for details.

Required of international students

Please read about additional requirements for international students.