Otterbein University is making a transformational student-focused, outcomes-driven college education more accessible with increased merit scholarship award values. Admission applications open Aug. 1, 2026. Apply by Dec. 15, 2026, to be considered for the most scholarship opportunities.

While many prospective students and families assume a private university education is out of reach financially, for most students, Otterbein is as affordable—and in some cases more affordable—than a state school.

As a college of opportunity, Otterbein is committed to supporting its students through a combination of merit scholarships and need-based financial aid, investing in students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to their future goals.

New Merit Scholarship Award Values

The following merit scholarships are awarded to new, first-year domestic or international undergraduate students entering Otterbein in Fall 2027 who have demonstrated scholarship and leadership in high school. Students are considered for these increased merit scholarships just by filling out the Otterbein application. Merit scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters or until completion of a student’s first undergraduate degree, whichever comes first.

• President’s Scholarship — $24,000 annually; four-year value of $96,000
• Provost Scholarship — $23,000 annually; four-year value of $92,000
• Trustee Scholarship — $22,000 annually; four-year value of $88,000
• Deans’ Scholarship — $18,000 annually; four-year value of $72,000
• Alumni Award — $16,000 annually; four-year value of $64,000

Advantage Partnership Scholarship

Otterbein also offers the Advantage Partnership Scholarship, now valued at $25,000 annually, with a four-year value of $100,000, for new first-year or transfer students at time of admission for students under the age of 23 whose parent or guardian is a qualified employee of an Otterbein Advantage Partner. The Advantage Partnership Scholarship is awarded in lieu of other merit awards. See the list of qualifying employers at Otterbein University Advantage Scholarship.

Supporting Students Through Need-Based Aid

In addition to merit awards, Otterbein remains committed to helping students achieve their educational goals through comprehensive need-based financial aid programs.

The university uses a combination of institutional, state, and federal resources to support students and families. Ohio residents who are federal Pell Grant eligible or have family incomes less than $60,000 are eligible for the Opportunity Scholarship which meets full need to tuition. Students that also qualify for the Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) qualify for a special no-loan to tuition program that awards aid without federal student loans to cover tuition.

Contrary to common misconceptions, many middle- and upper-income families may still qualify for financial assistance. Students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are eligible to be considered for need-based aid and gain access to the Federal Direct Student Loan program. On average, Otterbein students who complete the FAFSA receive $2,700 more per year than students who choose not to submit the form.

For more information, contact:

Otterbein University Office of Admission
Phone: 614.823.1500
Email: UOtterB@otterbein.edu