Recognizing Excellence, Celebrating Potential, Building Community

Competition by Invitation Only.
Saturday, January 31, 2026
8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST

Congratulations on your invitation to compete for one of three Otterbein University full-tuition awards. The University Scholarship Committee believes you possess a particular kind of academic and personal potential that will grow exponentially at Otterbein. This scholarship competition is just the beginning of many important opportunities at Otterbein designed to challenge your intellect and critical thinking skills while uniquely enriching your understanding of what you have the capability to achieve.

We believe you are ready for a university that will ask you to think deeply and broadly, one that expects you to engage locally and globally, and one which will prepare you to advance your profession and your community. Otterbein is committed to learning experiences which will develop, shape, and grow your understanding and experiences.

Scholars Day is about the opportunity to explore more. More opportunity. More support. More meaningful growth.

Many students who compete at Scholars Day ultimately decide to become Otterbein Cardinals — not because of the scholarship support they receive, but because they begin to understand that what happens here is different.

You will be supported, mentored, and prepared to explore and realize the goals you have always hoped were possible as a college student. Those dreams, that discovery begin as early as your first year.

Scholars Day Congratulations from Otterbein President John Comerford.

Hear from Kyle Miller about Scholar's Day

Are you ready to join us for Scholars Day?

RSVP required by Friday, January 23, 2026.

RSVP for Scholars Day >

SCHOLARS DAY PROGRAM

Saturday, January 31, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

8:30 a.m. Check-in begins*

Coffee, tea, and snacks available.

9 a.m. Cowan Hall’s Fritsche Auditorium

Welcome
John Comerford, Ph.D., President, Otterbein University
Mark A. Moffitt, Assistant Vice President, Enrollment Strategy and Marketing Director, Admission

Student Competition Schedule

Student scholars will be escorted to the appropriate sites for the formal, 45-minute essay competition. Following the competition, students will meet with their future academic department, faculty members, and fellow students.

Family Information Sessions

While students are writing, family members are invited to attend the following sessions:

  • The Otterbein Academic Experience.
  • Campus Resources/Student Life.
  • Financial Aid.
  • Alumni/Parent Panel.

12 p.m. Reception

All Scholars Day participants and their guests will gather for an end-of-day reception. Optional campus tours are available.

Final event schedule details will follow by email for all registrants who have confirmed their plans to attend. If you have any questions about the competition, please contact the Office of Admission at 614-823-1500.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline to register for this event?
The deadline to RSVP (online) is Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.

How many Full Tuition Scholarships are awarded?
Three (3) scholarships are awarded.

When will I find out if I have been chosen?
Students will be notified by early March if chosen.

If I am chosen, will I lose my other Otterbein scholarships?
Due to the value of this award, it replaces all other Otterbein institutional aid. External scholarships from other organizations are not impacted. Otterbein financial aid awards are separate and will not be changed based on the competition outcome. (Students are NOT able to transfer merit scholarships towards room and board.)

Is the award renewable?
Yes, the scholarship is renewable for four years, but requires that you maintain a 3.0 GPA to renew.

If I am not selected for the award, will I still receive my merit scholarships?
Yes, you will not lose any other Otterbein scholarships you have been granted already if you are not one of the three award recipients.

Am I expected to prepare an essay ahead of time?
No, you will complete the essay on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, and will be given 45 minutes to complete and submit your essay.

What is the essay topic?
You will receive an essay prompt at the same time as all other students during the event. Your essay will be related either to an article or a video (along with a transcript) you will receive via email on Jan. 26, 2026. You will be permitted to use your reference notes from the article/transcript for your essay.