2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio

About

First-year retention rates measure the percentage of first-year students who come back to campus for a second year. This is an indicator of how happy students are generally with their decision to attend that institution as less students decide to drop out or transfer to another school.

Sort by:

View as:

Rank	Institution	First Year Retention Rate	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Ohio State University-Main Campus	94	60.57	1,250 – 1,440	19575	51438	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Main Campus Columbus, OH Ohio State University is a Public Ivy. Getting its start in 1870, it was originally known as the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. With 972 athletes, the Buckeyes take part in the Big Ten Conference. Popular sports include Football, Basketball, and Ice Hockey. First Year Retention Rate 94 % Acceptance Rate 60.6% SAT Score 1,250 – 1,440 Avg. Net Price $19,575 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
2	Case Western Reserve University	92	37.78	1,440 – 1,550	41351	75613	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH Case Western Reserve University is known as the “Yale of the West,” as its campus imitated Yale’s. 86% receive grant aid to help offset the cost, or $38,578 on average. A NCAA Division III with football school, the Spartans often compete in Basketball, Football, and Soccer. First Year Retention Rate 92 % Acceptance Rate 37.8% SAT Score 1,440 – 1,550 Avg. Net Price $41,351 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $75,613
3	The Modern College of Design	92	91.83	--	34709	51847	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio The Modern College of Design Kettering, OH Located in Kettering, The Modern College of Design accepts 92% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 79% of students attending The Modern College of Design will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 92 % Acceptance Rate 91.8% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $34,709 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,847
4	Kenyon College	91.6	31.03	1,380 – 1,490	44470	46627	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kenyon College Gambier, OH Kenyon College has produced Rhodes Scholars, Truman Scholarship winners, Fulbright recipients, and Marshall Scholarship winners. Famous alumni include Rutherford B. Hayes, Paul Newman, and Bill Watterson. The school is extremely selective and has a 91% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 31.0% SAT Score 1,380 – 1,490 Avg. Net Price $44,470 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,627
5	Cleveland Institute of Music	91	38.53	--	36001	60883	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cleveland Institute of Music Cleveland, OH Based in Cleveland, Cleveland Institute of Music accepts 39% of applicants. They charge $125 for undergraduate applications and $125 for graduate applications. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 91% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 91 % Acceptance Rate 38.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $36,001 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,883
6	Miami University-Oxford	90.1	75.4	1,220 – 1,380	27928	49773	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Miami University-Oxford Oxford, OH Miami University, Oxford’s motto is “Prodesse Quam Conspici”, or “To accomplish without being conspicuous.” It’s one of the oldest public universities in the United States. A NCAA Division I-FBS school, most of Miami’s athletes, the RedHawks, compete in the Mid-American Conference. First Year Retention Rate 90 % 0.7% Acceptance Rate 75.4% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $27,928 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
7	University of Dayton	89.1	65.66	1,180 – 1,400	31551	62477	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Dayton Dayton, OH Found in Dayton, the University of Dayton accepted 66% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 95% of students at the University of Dayton will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % 0.1% Acceptance Rate 65.7% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $31,551 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,477
8	Denison University	89	16.93	1,320 – 1,450	42177	51352	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Denison University Granville, OH Denison University is extremely selective - about 26% of accepted students enrolling. With an 89% first year retention rate and 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, 81% will graduate in six years....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 16.9% SAT Score 1,320 – 1,450 Avg. Net Price $42,177 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,352
9	Oberlin College	89	32.98	1,370 – 1,500	50484	38871	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Oberlin College Oberlin, OH In the United States, Oberlin College is the oldest coeducational liberal arts college and its Conservatory of Music is the oldest operational conservatory. 72% of students will graduate within four years (82% within six). Oberlin’s motto is “Learning and Labor.” First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 33.0% SAT Score 1,370 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $50,484 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,871
10	Franciscan University of Steubenville	88	72.23	1,110 – 1,340	24490	42037	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Franciscan University of Steubenville Steubenville, OH “Fortitude and Prudence” is the motto of the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Located along the Ohio River, the school has a first year retention rate of 88% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. The Barons participate in the NCAA Division III without football Presidents' Athletic Conference. First Year Retention Rate 88 % Acceptance Rate 72.2% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $24,490 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,037
11	Cleveland Institute of Art	86	56.28	1,090 – 1,280	33527	33148	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cleveland Institute of Art Cleveland, OH Based in Cleveland, Cleveland Institute of Art accepts 56% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 100% of students attending Cleveland Institute of Art will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % Acceptance Rate 56.3% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $33,527 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,148
12	University of Cincinnati-Main Campus	85.34	85.29	1,180 – 1,350	21511	48310	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati, OH Found in Cincinnati, the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus accepted 85% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 62% of students attending the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 0.8% Acceptance Rate 85.3% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $21,511 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,310
13	Ohio Wesleyan University	84.7	55.6	1,130 – 1,360	23826	42495	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio Wesleyan University Delaware, OH Found in Delaware, Ohio Wesleyan University accepted 56% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. Approximately 100% of students attending Ohio Wesleyan University currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 0.5% Acceptance Rate 55.6% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $23,826 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,495
14	Ohio University-Main Campus	84.1	85.17	1,110 – 1,310	20550	48991	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Main Campus Athens, OH Located in Athens, Ohio University-Main Campus accepts 85% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 91% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 85.2% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $20,550 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
15	Baldwin Wallace University	83.84	75.7	1,090 – 1,300	28190	44972	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Baldwin Wallace University Berea, OH Baldwin Wallace University is a private liberal arts and sciences university found in 1845. The school boasts a 12 to 1 student to faculty ratio and 83% first year retention rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $28,190 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,972
16	Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati	83	30.65	--	27444	59213	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, Galen College of Nursing-Cincinnati accepted 31% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 0% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 83% and 0% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 83 % Acceptance Rate 30.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $27,444 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
17	John Carroll University	83	80.9	1,200 – 1,390	30790	53187	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio John Carroll University University Heights, OH John Carroll University was founded in 1886 as the St. Ignatius College. It changed its name to its current moniker in 1923 and became coeducational in 1968. Many of the buildings on the 65-acre campus are of Collegiate Gothic architecture. JCU has a first year retention rate of 83%. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 80.9% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $30,790 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,187
18	The College of Wooster	82	59.53	1,250 – 1,460	29529	43895	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio The College of Wooster Wooster, OH Located in Wooster, The College of Wooster accepted 60% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students attending The College of Wooster currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 59.5% SAT Score 1,250 – 1,460 Avg. Net Price $29,529 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,895
19	Kent State University at Kent	81.95	86.34	990 – 1,220	20333	40179	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Kent Kent, OH Located in Kent, Kent State University at Kent accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $50 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 94% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 86.3% SAT Score 990 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $20,333 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
20	Art Academy of Cincinnati	81	33.14	740 – 1,170	28899	27483	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Art Academy of Cincinnati Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, the Art Academy of Cincinnati accepted 33% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at the Art Academy of Cincinnati will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 33.1% SAT Score 740 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $28,899 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,483
21	Ohio Northern University	80	73.35	1,210 – 1,370	26396	62686	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio Northern University Ada, OH Ohio Northern University has a 12 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 80% first year retention rate. Pharmacy, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration, Other, and Mechanical Engineering are among the most common academic programs. ONU’s motto is “Out of diversity strength” in Latin. First Year Retention Rate 80 % Acceptance Rate 73.4% SAT Score 1,210 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $26,396 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,686
22	Otterbein University	79.8	84.52	990 – 1,240	22242	44539	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Otterbein University Westerville, OH Otterbein University is a private institution that offers up to Doctor's degrees. It was founded by the Church of United Brethren in Christ in 1947, but today it’s affiliated with the United Methodist Church....Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 3.2% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 990 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $22,242 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,539
23	Columbus College of Art & Design	79	71.74	1,010 – 1,240	30900	30590	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Columbus College of Art & Design Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Columbus College of Art & Design’s acceptance rate is 72% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 97% of students at Columbus College of Art & Design will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % Acceptance Rate 71.7% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $30,900 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,590
24	Kettering College	78	82.86	1,040 – 1,180	4048	60692	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kettering College Kettering, OH Located in Kettering, Kettering College accepts 83% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 82% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They are given $23,855 on average. The first year retention rate is 78%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 82.9% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $4,048 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,692
25	Xavier University	77.47	86.69	1,110 – 1,330	31542	54758	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Xavier University Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, Xavier University’s acceptance rate is 87%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Xavier University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 6.7% Acceptance Rate 86.7% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $31,542 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,758
26	University of Toledo	77.3	92.02	1,040 – 1,280	17927	44162	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Toledo Toledo, OH Located in Toledo, the University of Toledo’s acceptance rate is 92%. They charge $40 for undergraduate applications and $45 for graduate applications. About 82% of students at the University of Toledo currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The institution’s first year retention......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 1.8% Acceptance Rate 92.0% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $17,927 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,162
27	Walsh University	76	78.15	1,040 – 1,260	21009	50090	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Walsh University North Canton, OH Found in North Canton, Walsh University accepted 78% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students at Walsh University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 76% of students continued their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $21,009 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,090
28	Capital University	75.6	70.22	960 – 1,210	22480	45767	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Capital University Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Capital University accepts 70% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of students attending Capital University will receive institutional grant aid. At Capital University, there is a 75% first year retention rate and around 54% of students will graduate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 70.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,480 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,767
29	Malone University	75.6	75.86	970 – 1,180	23362	43056	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Malone University Canton, OH Malone University offers up to Post-master's certificates. Affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church, the school’s motto is “Christ’s Kingdom First.” A part of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, 398 Pioneers compete in sports, such as Track and Field and Cross Country (combined), Basketball, and Soccer. First Year Retention Rate 76 % 5.0% Acceptance Rate 75.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $23,362 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,056
30	Youngstown State University	75.4	80.66	950 – 1,180	11740	37590	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Youngstown State University Youngstown, OH Found in Youngstown, Youngstown State University’s acceptance rate is 81%. Undergraduates have to send in $45 to apply. Approximately 82% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Youngstown State University, there is a 75% first year retention rate and a 23% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 80.7% SAT Score 950 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $11,740 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,590
31	Ursuline College	75	84.01	980 – 1,190	17678	45646	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ursuline College Pepper Pike, OH Ursuline College is a private liberal arts school founded in 1871 as a Catholic women's college. While men can attend this school today, the school continues to provide a woman-focused education and the majority of students are women....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 84.0% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $17,678 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,646
32	Muskingum University	74	81.84	930 – 1,110	20269	40536	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Muskingum University New Concord, OH Found in New Concord, Muskingum University accepted 82% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 97% of students at Muskingum University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 8.8% Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $20,269 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,536
33	Wilberforce University	74	52.73	840 – 940	8222	35146	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wilberforce University Wilberforce, OH Based in Wilberforce, Wilberforce University accepts 53% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 79% of students at Wilberforce University will receive grant aid from the school. 74% of students continued their studies at Wilberforce University after......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 52.7% SAT Score 840 – 940 Avg. Net Price $8,222 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,146
34	Wittenberg University	73.6	91.04	1,050 – 1,240	21457	42437	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wittenberg University Springfield, OH Found in Springfield, Wittenberg University’s acceptance rate is 91% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students attending Wittenberg University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 91.0% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $21,457 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,437
35	University of Akron Main Campus	73	59.67	930 – 1,210	15292	42269	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Akron Main Campus Akron, OH Based in Akron, the University of Akron Main Campus accepts 60% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 91% of students attending the University of Akron Main Campus will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 73% and around 22% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $15,292 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,269
36	Antioch College	72	89.21	1,010 – 1,240	10979	32114	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Antioch College Yellow Springs, OH Found in Yellow Springs, Antioch College accepts 89% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 100% of students at Antioch College currently receive grant aid from the school. At Antioch College, there is a 72% first year retention rate and 18% of students will earn their degree in......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 89.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $10,979 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,114
37	Lourdes University	72	74.1	930 – 1,140	22614	40158	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Lourdes University Sylvania, OH Found in Sylvania, Lourdes University accepts 74% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 74.1% SAT Score 930 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $22,614 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,158
38	Mount Vernon Nazarene University	72	84.3	1,010 – 1,280	23293	43046	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Mount Vernon Nazarene University Mount Vernon, OH Based in Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon Nazarene University accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 72%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 84.3% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $23,293 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,046
39	Shawnee State University	72	81.47	980 – 1,190	14815	35080	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Shawnee State University Portsmouth, OH Found in Portsmouth, Shawnee State University accepted 81% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 56% of students attending Shawnee State University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 81.5% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $14,815 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,080
40	The University of Findlay	72	86.15	1,010 – 1,240	26215	49757	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio The University of Findlay Findlay, OH Located in Findlay, The University of Findlay accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 98% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 72% and 47% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 86.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $26,215 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,757
41	University of Mount Union	72	80.13	1,000 – 1,210	22835	45919	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Mount Union Alliance, OH 20% of accepted students enroll in the University of Mount Union, a somewhat selective liberal arts school. The 123-acre campus is home to two buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Kehres Stadium is the oldest college stadium in the state. The university also has a 162-acre nature center. First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 80.1% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,835 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,919
42	Hiram College	71.86	92.44	890 – 1,120	21362	40270	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Hiram College Hiram, OH Based in Hiram, Hiram College accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of students attending Hiram College will receive institutional grant aid. At Hiram College, there is a 71% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 10.6% Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $21,362 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,270
43	Mercy College of Ohio	71	42.76	930 – 1,120	15705	61877	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Mercy College of Ohio Toledo, OH Found in Toledo, Mercy College of Ohio accepts 43% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 97% of students at Mercy College of Ohio will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % Acceptance Rate 42.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $15,705 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $61,877
44	Cleveland State University	70.25	91.3	880 – 1,130	16307	44625	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cleveland State University Cleveland, OH Found in Cleveland, Cleveland State University’s acceptance rate is 91%. They request $40 for undergraduate applications and . About 76% of students attending Cleveland State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 1.7% Acceptance Rate 91.3% SAT Score 880 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $16,307 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,625
45	Gods Bible School and College	69	64.03	960 – 1,170	7233	29555	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Gods Bible School and College Cincinnati, OH Found in Cincinnati, Gods Bible School and College accepts 64% of applicants and requests $25 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of students attending Gods Bible School and College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 64.0% SAT Score 960 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $7,233 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,555
46	Marietta College	69	79.29	960 – 1,190	21333	51252	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Marietta College Marietta, OH Found in Marietta, Marietta College accepted 79% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 88% of students at Marietta College currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 79.3% SAT Score 960 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $21,333 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,252
47	Miami University-Middletown	69	100	--	13457	49773	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Miami University-Middletown Middletown, OH Located in Middletown, Miami University-Middletown accepted 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $35 to apply. About 29% of students at Miami University-Middletown currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 69% and around......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,457 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
48	University of Northwestern Ohio	69	80.35	--	18794	45639	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Northwestern Ohio Lima, OH Found in Lima, the University of Northwestern Ohio’s acceptance rate is 80%. They request $20 for undergraduate applications and $20 for graduate applications. About 23% of students attending the University of Northwestern Ohio currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 80.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $18,794 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,639
49	Mount St. Joseph University	68.7	59.15	1,010 – 1,260	15887	43595	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Mount St. Joseph University Cincinnati, OH Based in Cincinnati, Mount St- Joseph University’s acceptance rate is 59%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 100% of students at Mount St- Joseph University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 9.6% Acceptance Rate 59.2% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $15,887 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,595
50	Mount Carmel College of Nursing	68	57.39	930 – 1,080	11686	60785	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Mount Carmel College of Nursing Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, Mount Carmel College of Nursing accepts 57% of applicants. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications. About 48% of students at Mount Carmel College of Nursing will receive grant aid from the school. At Mount Carmel College of Nursing, there is a 68% first year retention rate and 75% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % Acceptance Rate 57.4% SAT Score 930 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $11,686 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,785
51	Wright State University-Main Campus	68	96.33	930 – 1,190	15400	42229	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wright State University-Main Campus Dayton, OH Based in Dayton, Wright State University-Main Campus accepts 96% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 84% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. At Wright State University-Main Campus, there is a 68% first year retention rate and around 27% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % 7.9% Acceptance Rate 96.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $15,400 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
52	Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences	67	41.27	1,040 – 1,110	21470	50096	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences Canton, OH Based in Canton, Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences’s acceptance rate is 41%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 53% of students attending Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences will receive grant aid from the school. The institution’s first year retention rate is 67% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % Acceptance Rate 41.3% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $21,470 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,096
53	Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus	67	83.3	--	5304	48991	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus Chillicothe, OH Based in Chillicothe, Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus accepts 83% of applicants. They charge $20 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. Approximately 50% of students attending Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 83.3% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,304 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
54	Wilmington College	65.4	84.6	970 – 1,170	24915	41889	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wilmington College Wilmington, OH Located in Wilmington, Wilmington College accepted 85% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of students attending Wilmington College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 84.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $24,915 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,889
55	James A- Rhodes State College	65	64.12	--	8979	38657	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio James A- Rhodes State College Lima, OH Located in Lima, James A- Rhodes State College’s acceptance rate is 64%. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. About 28% of students at James A- Rhodes State College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They receive $1,348 on average. The first year retention rate is 65%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 64.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,979 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,657
56	Kent State University at East Liverpool	65	87.4	850 – 1,060	9788	40179	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at East Liverpool East Liverpool, OH Located in East Liverpool, Kent State University at East Liverpool’s acceptance rate is 87%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. Approximately 63% of students attending Kent State University at East Liverpool will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % 5.0% Acceptance Rate 87.4% SAT Score 850 – 1,060 Avg. Net Price $9,788 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
57	Zane State College	65	56.65	--	7397	32808	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Zane State College Zanesville, OH Based in Zanesville, Zane State College accepts 57% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 26% of students attending Zane State College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 56.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,397 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,808
58	Miami University-Hamilton	64	100	--	12407	49773	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton, OH Found in Hamilton, Miami University-Hamilton accepts 100% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $35 to apply. About 35% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Miami University-Hamilton, there is a 64% first year retention rate and around 7% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,407 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
59	Ohio Dominican University	64	94.23	1,040 – 1,310	21006	43933	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio Dominican University Columbus, OH Based in Columbus, Ohio Dominican University accepts 94% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 100% of students attending Ohio Dominican University will receive grant aid from the school. 64% of students continued their studies at Ohio Dominican......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 6.7% Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,006 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,933
60	Ohio University-Eastern Campus	63	45.12	--	3897	48991	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Eastern Campus Saint Clairsville, OH Found in Saint Clairsville, Ohio University-Eastern Campus accepted 45% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 69% of students at Ohio University-Eastern Campus currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 45.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $3,897 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
61	University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College	63	87.67	--	9388	48310	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College Blue Ash, OH Located in Blue Ash, the University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 48% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,388 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,310
62	Lake Erie College	62.9	64.12	970 – 1,160	22322	43959	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Lake Erie College Painesville, OH Located in Painesville, Lake Erie College accepted 64% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students at Lake Erie College currently receive grant aid from the school. At Lake Erie College, there is a 62% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % Acceptance Rate 64.1% SAT Score 970 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $22,322 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,959
63	Defiance College	60.3	42.43	970 – 1,110	24098	39303	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Defiance College Defiance, OH Located in Defiance, Defiance College accepts 42% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 99% of students at Defiance College will receive grant aid from the school. On average, these students receive $21,245 each. The first year retention rate is 60%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate 42.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $24,098 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,303
64	Kent State University at Tuscarawas	60.3	88.54	--	11448	40179	#64 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Tuscarawas New Philadelphia, OH Found in New Philadelphia, Kent State University at Tuscarawas accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 77% of students attending Kent State University at Tuscarawas currently receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 4.9% Acceptance Rate 88.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,448 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
65	Tiffin University	60.28	79.77	860 – 1,120	24516	42475	#65 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Tiffin University Tiffin, OH Found in Tiffin, Tiffin University accepted 80% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 97% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Tiffin University, there is a 60% first year retention rate and a 36% four year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate 79.8% SAT Score 860 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $24,516 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,475
66	DeVry University-Ohio	60	100	--	0	42178	#66 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio DeVry University-Ohio Columbus, OH Found in Columbus, DeVry University-Ohio’s acceptance rate is 100% and requires $30 for undergraduate applications and $30 for graduate applications. Approximately 0% of students at DeVry University-Ohio currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,178
67	Ohio University-Zanesville Campus	60	86.01	--	5715	48991	#67 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Zanesville, OH Based in Zanesville, Ohio University-Zanesville Campus accepts 86% of applicants and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 63% of students at Ohio University-Zanesville Campus will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 13.0% Acceptance Rate 86.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,715 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
68	Kent State University at Stark	59.66	93.15	860 – 1,120	10977	40179	#68 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Stark North Canton, OH Based in North Canton, Kent State University at Stark accepts 93% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 52% of students attending Kent State University at Stark will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 59%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 5.2% Acceptance Rate 93.2% SAT Score 860 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $10,977 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
69	Wright State University-Lake Campus	58	95.15	930 – 1,180	12039	42229	#69 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wright State University-Lake Campus Celina, OH Found in Celina, Wright State University-Lake Campus accepted 95% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 84% of students attending Wright State University-Lake Campus currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % Acceptance Rate 95.2% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $12,039 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
70	Marion Technical College	57	78.61	--	7625	40017	#70 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Marion Technical College Marion, OH Located in Marion, Marion Technical College’s acceptance rate is 79% and requires $20 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 32% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 57% and its four year graduation rate is 0%. Most students attending Marion......Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % Acceptance Rate 78.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,625 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,017
71	Central State University	56	98.61	800 – 970	14821	27173	#71 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Central State University Wilberforce, OH Based in Wilberforce, Central State University accepts 99% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 41% of students at Central State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 36.6% Acceptance Rate 98.6% SAT Score 800 – 970 Avg. Net Price $14,821 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,173
72	University of Cincinnati-Clermont College	55	87.67	--	8892	55193	#72 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Cincinnati-Clermont College Batavia, OH Found in Batavia, the University of Cincinnati-Clermont College accepts 88% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications and . About 57% of students at the University of Cincinnati-Clermont College currently receive institutional grant aid. 55% of students decide to stay at the University of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 55 % Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,892 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,193
73	Ohio University-Southern Campus	54	87.89	--	4682	48991	#73 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Southern Campus Ironton, OH Based in Ironton, Ohio University-Southern Campus accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 64% of students at Ohio University-Southern Campus will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 54 % 13.7% Acceptance Rate 87.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,682 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
74	Kent State University at Trumbull	53.8	81.97	880 – 1,070	10075	40179	#74 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Trumbull Warren, OH Based in Warren, Kent State University at Trumbull accepts 82% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 54% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 54 % 5.3% Acceptance Rate 82.0% SAT Score 880 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $10,075 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
75	Kent State University at Ashtabula	53.41	86.57	830 – 1,100	10502	40179	#75 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Ashtabula Ashtabula, OH Found in Ashtabula, Kent State University at Ashtabula accepted 87% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 37% of students attending Kent State University at Ashtabula will receive institutional grant......Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % 3.3% Acceptance Rate 86.6% SAT Score 830 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $10,502 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
76	Kent State University at Salem	53.28	86.86	850 – 1,020	10796	40179	#76 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Salem Salem, OH Located in Salem, Kent State University at Salem’s acceptance rate is 87% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 39% of students attending Kent State University at Salem currently receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 53%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % 19.2% Acceptance Rate 86.9% SAT Score 850 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $10,796 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
77	Bowling Green State University-Firelands	53	61.16	930 – 1,110	16169	41281	#77 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bowling Green State University-Firelands Huron, OH Based in Huron, Bowling Green State University-Firelands’s acceptance rate is 61%. They charge $45 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 8% of students at Bowling Green State University-Firelands will receive grant aid from the school. The institution’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 61.2% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $16,169 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
78	University of Rio Grande	52.08	72.98	--	26581	34323	#78 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Rio Grande Rio Grande, OH Based in Rio Grande, the University of Rio Grande’s acceptance rate is 73% and requests $25 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 46% of students at the University of Rio Grande will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 52 % Acceptance Rate 73.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $26,581 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,323
79	Ohio Christian University	51	39.9	850 – 930	21092	34457	#79 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio Christian University Circleville, OH Based in Circleville, Ohio Christian University’s acceptance rate is 40%. They require $25 for undergraduate applications. About 88% of students at Ohio Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 51 % Acceptance Rate 39.9% SAT Score 850 – 930 Avg. Net Price $21,092 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,457
80	Cincinnati State Technical and Community College	50	87.67	--	6489	35314	#80 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College’s acceptance rate is 88% and requires $15 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 30% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 50% and 0% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % Acceptance Rate 87.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,489 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,314
81	Ohio University-Lancaster Campus	50	54.67	--	4935	48991	#81 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Lancaster Campus Lancaster, OH Found in Lancaster, Ohio University-Lancaster Campus’s acceptance rate is 55% and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 46% of students at Ohio University-Lancaster Campus currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % 21.6% Acceptance Rate 54.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,935 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
82	Kent State University at Geauga	49.38	96.12	820 – 1,080	10524	40179	#82 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Geauga Burton, OH Based in Burton, Kent State University at Geauga accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 26% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 49 % 5.0% Acceptance Rate 96.1% SAT Score 820 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $10,524 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
83	Ohio State University-Lima Campus	42	99.35	1,040 – 1,220	12727	51438	#83 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Lima Campus Lima, OH Located in Lima, Ohio State University-Lima Campus accepts 99% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 75% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 42 % 5.0% Acceptance Rate 99.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $12,727 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
84	Ohio State University-Marion Campus	40	98.81	1,000 – 1,210	14514	51438	#84 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Marion Campus Marion, OH Found in Marion, Ohio State University-Marion Campus accepted 99% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $60 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 98% of students at Ohio State University-Marion Campus will receive grant aid from the school. The first year retention rate is 40%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 40 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 98.8% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $14,514 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
85	Clark State College	39	39.9	--	8329	59423	#85 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Clark State College Springfield, OH Found in Springfield, Clark State College accepts 40% of applicants and charges $15 for undergraduate applications. About 22% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. They receive $1,522 on average. At Clark State College, there is a 39% first year retention rate and a 0% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 39 % Acceptance Rate 39.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,329 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,423
86	Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus	34	99.47	980 – 1,200	15920	51438	#86 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus Mansfield, OH Based in Mansfield, Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus accepts 99% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $60 to apply. About 65% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The first year retention rate is 34%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 34 % 3.7% Acceptance Rate 99.5% SAT Score 980 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $15,920 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
87	Ohio State University-Newark Campus	25	99.37	980 – 1,190	13843	51438	#87 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Newark Campus Newark, OH Based in Newark, Ohio State University-Newark Campus’s acceptance rate is 99% and requires $60 for undergraduate applications and $60 for graduate applications. Approximately 63% of students at Ohio State University-Newark Campus will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 25% and 3% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 25 % 6.4% Acceptance Rate 99.4% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $13,843 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
88	American Institute of Alternative Medicine	0	84.38	--	31749	47719	#88 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio American Institute of Alternative Medicine Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 84.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $31,749 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,719
89	Ashland University	0	80.53	1,040 – 1,250	21971	47722	#89 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ashland University Ashland, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 80.5% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $21,971 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,722
90	Bluffton University	0	61.16	920 – 1,130	21299	41940	#90 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bluffton University Bluffton, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 61.2% SAT Score 920 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $21,299 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,940
91	Bowling Green State University-Main Campus	0	80.96	1,040 – 1,240	20987	41281	#91 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bowling Green State University-Main Campus Bowling Green, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 81.0% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $20,987 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
92	Bryant & Stratton College-Parma	0	64.13	--	13740	27873	#92 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bryant & Stratton College-Parma Parma, OH Located in Parma, Bryant & Stratton College-Parma’s acceptance rate is 64%. They request $35 for undergraduate applications and . About 65% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is 28% and around 0% of students will graduate in four years or less. Licensed......Read more First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 64.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,740 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,873
93	Cedarville University	0	64.88	1,140 – 1,360	27047	47937	#93 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cedarville University Cedarville, OH Cedarville University first opened in 1887. One famous alumnus is Grace Norman, who won a gold medal and bronze medal for the United States in the 2016 Paralympics, for the triathlon and 400m respectively. 100% of students receive institutional grant aid from Cedarville, around $18,776 per student on average. First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 64.9% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $27,047 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,937
94	Central Ohio Technical College	0	62.82	--	9439	37165	#94 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Central Ohio Technical College Newark, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 62.8% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,439 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,165
95	Chamberlain University-Ohio	0	70	--	32560	59213	#95 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Chamberlain University-Ohio Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 70.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $32,560 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
96	Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science	0	50.18	--	0	51562	#96 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science Cincinnati, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 50.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,562
97	Felbry College	0	64.66	--	63786	59213	#97 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Felbry College Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 64.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $63,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
98	Franklin University	0	86.33	--	22252	49189	#98 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Franklin University Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 86.3% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $22,252 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,189
99	Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science	0	16.93	1,040 – 1,080	19728	59213	#99 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science Cincinnati, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 16.9% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $19,728 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
100	Heidelberg University	0	67.73	1,020 – 1,180	19620	41440	#100 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Heidelberg University Tiffin, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,620 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,440
101	Herzing University-Akron	0	94.03	--	20429	35295	#101 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Herzing University-Akron Akron, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 94.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $20,429 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,295
102	Lakewood University	0	0	--	2705	58542	#102 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Lakewood University Cleveland Heights, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $2,705 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,542
103	Lorain County Community College	0	64.12	--	4397	33660	#103 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Lorain County Community College Elyria, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 64.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,397 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,660
104	North Central State College	0	81.66	--	3763	59423	#104 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio North Central State College Mansfield, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 81.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $3,763 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,423
105	Professional Skills Institute	0	71.43	--	19770	44172	#105 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Professional Skills Institute Maumee, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 71.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $19,770 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,172
106	Sinclair Community College	0	0	--	5824	54939	#106 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Sinclair Community College Dayton, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,824 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,939
107	The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences	0	50.18	880 – 1,020	18995	64942	#107 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences Cincinnati, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 50.2% SAT Score 880 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $18,995 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,942
108	Valor Christian College	0	0	--	23991	50472	#108 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Valor Christian College Canal Winchester, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $23,991 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,472
109	Washington State Community College	0	78.15	--	7758	34205	#109 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Washington State Community College Marietta, OH First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,758 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,205