2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio

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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.

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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	1,310 – 1,450	19783	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 1,310 – 1,450 Avg. Net Price $19,783 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
2	Case Western Reserve University	92	36.54	1,430 – 1,530	44000	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. 88% receive grant aid to help offset the cost, or $40,221 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 36.5% SAT Score 1,430 – 1,530 Avg. Net Price $44,000 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $75,613
3	Kenyon College	92	31.03	1,380 – 1,490	46859	46627	#3 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 92% first year retention rate. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 31.0% SAT Score 1,380 – 1,490 Avg. Net Price $46,859 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,627
4	Oberlin College	91	34.18	1,380 – 1,520	51624	38871	#4 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 (83% within six). Oberlin’s motto is “Learning and Labor.” First Year Retention Rate 91 % 2.2% Acceptance Rate 34.2% SAT Score 1,380 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $51,624 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,871
5	Cedarville University	90	65.29	1,120 – 1,350	27150	47937	#5 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 $20,740 per student on average. First Year Retention Rate 90 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 65.3% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,150 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,937
6	Cleveland Institute of Music	90	47.31	--	29683	20170	#6 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 47% 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 90% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 47.3% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,683 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $20,170
7	Miami University-Oxford	90	75.4	1,220 – 1,380	28229	49773	#7 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 % Acceptance Rate 75.4% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $28,229 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
8	Denison University	89	17.39	1,350 – 1,480	43721	51352	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Denison University Granville, OH Denison University is extremely selective - about 24% of accepted students enrolling. With an 89% first year retention rate and 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, 85% will graduate in six years....Read more First Year Retention Rate 89 % Acceptance Rate 17.4% SAT Score 1,350 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $43,721 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,352
9	University of Dayton	89	65.45	1,210 – 1,400	32794	62477	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Dayton Dayton, OH Found in Dayton, the University of Dayton accepted 65% 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 % Acceptance Rate 65.5% SAT Score 1,210 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $32,794 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,477
10	Cleveland Institute of Art	88	61.35	1,050 – 1,310	30837	33148	#10 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 61% 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 88 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate 61.4% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $30,837 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,148
11	Franciscan University of Steubenville	87	58.36	1,110 – 1,350	23086	42037	#11 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 87% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1. The Barons participate in the NCAA Division III without football Presidents' Athletic Conference. First Year Retention Rate 87 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 58.4% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $23,086 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,037
12	Ohio Wesleyan University	85	55.6	1,180 – 1,390	23006	42495	#12 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 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 55.6% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $23,006 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,495
13	University of Cincinnati-Main Campus	85	85.29	1,180 – 1,350	24696	48310	#13 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 67% of students attending the University of Cincinnati-Main Campus will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 85 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 85.3% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $24,696 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,310
14	Baldwin Wallace University	84	75.7	1,090 – 1,320	27991	44972	#14 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 84% first year retention rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $27,991 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,972
15	Ohio Northern University	84	74.4	1,180 – 1,360	25941	62686	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio Northern University Ada, OH Ohio Northern University has a 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and 84% first year retention rate. Pharmacy, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration, Other, and Law are among the most common academic programs. ONU’s motto is “Out of diversity strength” in Latin. First Year Retention Rate 84 % 4.5% Acceptance Rate 74.4% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $25,941 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,686
16	Ohio University-Main Campus	84	84.99	1,110 – 1,310	21907	48991	#16 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 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 85.0% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,907 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
17	John Carroll University	83	80.9	1,200 – 1,390	30030	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 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 80.9% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,390 Avg. Net Price $30,030 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,187
18	Bowling Green State University-Main Campus	82	80.96	1,010 – 1,240	24283	41281	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bowling Green State University-Main Campus Bowling Green, OH Found in Bowling Green, Bowling Green State University-Main Campus accepts 81% of applicants and requests $45 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 93% of students attending Bowling Green State University-Main Campus currently receive grant aid from the school. At Bowling Green State University-Main Campus, there......Read more First Year Retention Rate 82 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 81.0% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $24,283 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
19	The College of Wooster	82	59.53	1,250 – 1,460	28004	43895	#19 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 $28,004 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,895
20	Kent State University at Kent	81	86.34	990 – 1,220	21278	40179	#20 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 81 % 2.5% Acceptance Rate 86.3% SAT Score 990 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $21,278 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
21	Mount Carmel College of Nursing	81	84.29	930 – 1,080	10065	68161	#21 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 84% of applicants. They charge $30 for undergraduate applications. About 50% of students at Mount Carmel College of Nursing will receive grant aid from the school. At Mount Carmel College of Nursing, there is a 81% first year retention rate and 58% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 84.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $10,065 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $68,161
22	Columbus College of Art & Design	80	67.66	970 – 1,190	31801	30590	#22 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 68% and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 96% 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 80 % 9.6% Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 970 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $31,801 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,590
23	Otterbein University	80	84.53	1,110 – 1,310	20457	44539	#23 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 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $20,457 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,539
24	Mount Vernon Nazarene University	79	84.15	990 – 1,230	22961	43046	#24 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 79%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 79 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 84.2% SAT Score 990 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $22,961 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,046
25	Ashland University	77	76.4	1,040 – 1,210	22610	47722	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ashland University Ashland, OH Found in Ashland, Ashland University’s acceptance rate is 76% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 99% of students attending Ashland University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 77% and its......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 6.9% Acceptance Rate 76.4% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,610 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,722
26	University of Mount Union	77	78.2	960 – 1,220	23616	45919	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Mount Union Alliance, OH 23% 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 77 % 8.5% Acceptance Rate 78.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $23,616 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,919
27	University of Toledo	77	92.02	1,130 – 1,330	17844	44162	#27 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 78% 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 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 92.0% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $17,844 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,162
28	Xavier University	77	86.41	1,110 – 1,330	33623	54758	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Xavier University Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, Xavier University’s acceptance rate is 86%. 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 % 7.2% Acceptance Rate 86.4% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $33,623 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,758
29	Capital University	76	70.22	960 – 1,210	22395	45767	#29 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 76% first year retention rate and around 56% of students will graduate......Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 70.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $22,395 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,767
30	Malone University	76	75.86	970 – 1,180	22390	43056	#30 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 % 5.6% Acceptance Rate 75.9% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,390 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,056
31	Youngstown State University	76	84.45	1,010 – 1,220	12757	37590	#31 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 84%. Undergraduates have to send in $45 to apply. Approximately 79% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Youngstown State University, there is a 76% first year retention rate and a 28% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 76 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 84.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $12,757 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,590
32	Heidelberg University	74	85.79	1,020 – 1,180	19447	41440	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Heidelberg University Tiffin, OH Found in Tiffin, Heidelberg University accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 5.1% Acceptance Rate 85.8% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,447 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,440
33	Kettering College	74	76.54	1,010 – 1,180	22036	60692	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kettering College Kettering, OH Located in Kettering, Kettering College accepts 77% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They are given $6,854 on average. The first year retention rate is 74%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 8.6% Acceptance Rate 76.5% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,036 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,692
34	The University of Findlay	74	83.37	1,010 – 1,240	27297	49757	#34 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 83% 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 attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 74% and 50%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 83.4% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $27,297 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,757
35	Wilberforce University	74	40.5	850 – 1,080	5533	35146	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wilberforce University Wilberforce, OH Based in Wilberforce, Wilberforce University accepts 40% of applicants and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 99% 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 % 5.7% Acceptance Rate 40.5% SAT Score 850 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $5,533 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,146
36	Muskingum University	73	81.84	930 – 1,110	19695	40536	#36 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 100% of students at Muskingum University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $19,695 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,536
37	University of Akron Main Campus	73	59.67	930 – 1,210	14693	42269	#37 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 92% 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 27% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % Acceptance Rate 59.7% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $14,693 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,269
38	Antioch College	72	89.13	1,010 – 1,240	15964	32114	#38 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 13% of students will earn their degree in......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 18.0% Acceptance Rate 89.1% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $15,964 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,114
39	Hiram College	72	93.53	890 – 1,170	21868	40270	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Hiram College Hiram, OH Based in Hiram, Hiram College accepted 94% 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 students attending Hiram College will receive institutional grant aid. At Hiram College, there is a 72% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 10.8% Acceptance Rate 93.5% SAT Score 890 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $21,868 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,270
40	Shawnee State University	72	68.91	980 – 1,190	13996	35080	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Shawnee State University Portsmouth, OH Found in Portsmouth, Shawnee State University accepted 69% 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 63% of students attending Shawnee State University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 68.9% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $13,996 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,080
41	Tiffin University	72	80.05	870 – 1,090	26068	42475	#41 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 $75 for undergraduate applications. About 96% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. At Tiffin University, there is a 72% first year retention rate and a 36% four year graduation......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 20.0% Acceptance Rate 80.1% SAT Score 870 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $26,068 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,475
42	Walsh University	72	70.74	1,040 – 1,280	23933	50090	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Walsh University North Canton, OH Found in North Canton, Walsh University accepted 71% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 96% of students at Walsh University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 72% of students continued their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 70.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $23,933 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,090
43	Wilmington College	72	92.4	890 – 1,150	26548	41889	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wilmington College Wilmington, OH Located in Wilmington, Wilmington College accepted 92% 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 72 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $26,548 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,889
44	Cleveland State University	70	91.3	930 – 1,210	16230	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 unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 70% of students attending Cleveland State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 1.4% Acceptance Rate 91.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $16,230 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,625
45	Ursuline College	70	74.93	1,030 – 1,200	16350	45646	#45 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 70 % 4.1% Acceptance Rate 74.9% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $16,350 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,646
46	Marietta College	69	79.31	960 – 1,190	22007	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 100% of students at Marietta College currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 5.5% Acceptance Rate 79.3% SAT Score 960 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $22,007 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,252
47	Mount St. Joseph University	69	59.12	1,020 – 1,270	17094	43595	#47 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 99% of students at Mount St- Joseph University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 9.2% Acceptance Rate 59.1% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,270 Avg. Net Price $17,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,595
48	The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences	69	58.94	850 – 1,210	18892	64942	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences Cincinnati, OH Located in Cincinnati, The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences’s acceptance rate is 59%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 82% of students at The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences will receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 15.0% Acceptance Rate 58.9% SAT Score 850 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $18,892 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $64,942
49	Wright State University-Main Campus	68	96.33	930 – 1,220	15254	42229	#49 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 87% 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 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $15,254 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
50	Miami University-Middletown	67	0	--	10574	49773	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Miami University-Middletown Middletown, OH First Year Retention Rate 67 % 8.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,574 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
51	Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus	67	0	--	6032	48991	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Chillicothe Campus Chillicothe, OH First Year Retention Rate 67 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,032 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
52	Ohio Dominican University	64	94.23	1,040 – 1,310	21032	43933	#52 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 . Approximately 100% of students attending Ohio Dominican University will receive grant aid from the school. 64% of students continued their studies at Ohio Dominican University after completing their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 6.7% Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $21,032 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,933
53	Ohio University-Eastern Campus	63	0	--	4730	48991	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Eastern Campus Saint Clairsville, OH First Year Retention Rate 63 % 3.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,730 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
54	Wittenberg University	63	72.35	1,060 – 1,300	23537	42437	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Wittenberg University Springfield, OH Found in Springfield, Wittenberg University’s acceptance rate is 72% 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 63 % 14.9% Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 1,060 – 1,300 Avg. Net Price $23,537 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,437
55	Ohio Christian University	62	37.97	850 – 930	20290	34457	#55 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 38%. They require $25 for undergraduate applications. About 85% of students at Ohio Christian University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 24.0% Acceptance Rate 38.0% SAT Score 850 – 930 Avg. Net Price $20,290 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,457
56	University of Northwestern Ohio	61	0	--	21853	45639	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Northwestern Ohio Lima, OH First Year Retention Rate 61 % 1.6% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $21,853 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,639
57	Wright State University-Lake Campus	61	99.85	930 – 1,180	11008	42229	#57 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 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 83% of students attending Wright State University-Lake Campus currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 6.2% Acceptance Rate 99.9% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $11,008 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,229
58	Bluffton University	60	67.23	890 – 1,120	20429	41940	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bluffton University Bluffton, OH Located in Bluffton, Bluffton University accepted 67% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % 10.4% Acceptance Rate 67.2% SAT Score 890 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $20,429 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,940
59	Ohio University-Zanesville Campus	60	0	--	5957	48991	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Zanesville Campus Zanesville, OH First Year Retention Rate 60 % 13.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,957 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
60	Lake Erie College	59	70.36	970 – 1,180	22892	43959	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Lake Erie College Painesville, OH Located in Painesville, Lake Erie College accepted 70% 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 59% first year retention rate and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 10.6% Acceptance Rate 70.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $22,892 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,959
61	University of Akron Wayne College	59	89.92	890 – 1,140	6983	42269	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Akron Wayne College Orrville, OH Based in Orrville, the University of Akron Wayne College accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 91% of students attending the University of Akron Wayne College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % 3.5% Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score 890 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $6,983 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,269
62	Central State University	56	98.61	800 – 970	11398	27173	#62 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 91% of students at Central State University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 9.8% Acceptance Rate 98.6% SAT Score 800 – 970 Avg. Net Price $11,398 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,173
63	Defiance College	56	47.55	970 – 1,080	26298	39303	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Defiance College Defiance, OH Located in Defiance, Defiance College accepts 48% 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 $22,261 each. The first year retention rate is 56%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 47.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $26,298 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,303
64	University of Rio Grande	56	0	--	24061	34323	#64 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio University of Rio Grande Rio Grande, OH First Year Retention Rate 56 % 12.5% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $24,061 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,323
65	Kent State University at Stark	54	0	--	10861	40179	#65 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Stark North Canton, OH First Year Retention Rate 54 % 1.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,861 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
66	Ohio University-Southern Campus	54	0	--	6014	48991	#66 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Southern Campus Ironton, OH First Year Retention Rate 54 % 14.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,014 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
67	Miami University-Hamilton	53	0	--	9786	49773	#67 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton, OH First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,773
68	Art Academy of Cincinnati	51	34.49	740 – 1,170	33491	27483	#68 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 34% 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 51 % 17.7% Acceptance Rate 34.5% SAT Score 740 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $33,491 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,483
69	Bowling Green State University-Firelands	51	0	930 – 1,110	15782	41281	#69 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Bowling Green State University-Firelands Huron, OH First Year Retention Rate 51 % 8.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score 930 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $15,782 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,281
70	Kent State University at Tuscarawas	50	0	--	12576	40179	#70 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Tuscarawas New Philadelphia, OH First Year Retention Rate 50 % 16.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,576 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
71	Ohio University-Lancaster Campus	50	0	--	5854	48991	#71 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio University-Lancaster Campus Lancaster, OH First Year Retention Rate 50 % 21.9% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,854 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,991
72	Kent State University at Ashtabula	49	0	--	12653	40179	#72 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Ashtabula Ashtabula, OH First Year Retention Rate 49 % 69.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,653 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
73	Kent State University at Geauga	49	0	--	11886	40179	#73 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Geauga Burton, OH First Year Retention Rate 49 % 44.1% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,886 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
74	Kent State University at Salem	47	0	--	13301	40179	#74 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Salem Salem, OH First Year Retention Rate 47 % 23.0% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,301 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
75	Kent State University at Trumbull	47	0	--	11562	40179	#75 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Kent State University at Trumbull Warren, OH First Year Retention Rate 47 % 7.8% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,562 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,179
76	Ohio State University-Lima Campus	42	0	--	12862	51438	#76 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Lima Campus Lima, OH First Year Retention Rate 42 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,862 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
77	Ohio State University-Marion Campus	40	0	--	13191	51438	#77 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Marion Campus Marion, OH First Year Retention Rate 40 % 18.4% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,191 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
78	Franklin University	36	0	--	25576	49189	#78 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Franklin University Columbus, OH First Year Retention Rate 36 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,576 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,189
79	Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus	34	0	--	15634	51438	#79 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus Mansfield, OH First Year Retention Rate 34 % 9.7% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $15,634 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438
80	Ohio State University-Newark Campus	25	0	--	14144	51438	#80 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate in Ohio Ohio State University-Newark Campus Newark, OH First Year Retention Rate 25 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,144 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,438