LGBTQ at Ohio State

Student Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to LGBTQ+ Buckeyes in the form of merit- and need-based scholarships from both Ohio State-specific organizations and national organizations dedicated to supporting students around the country.

FAFSA and Financial Aid

The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the first step to be considered for any type of federal or state aid and most institutional aid (including scholarships). The FAFSA is available on October 1 each year, and The Ohio State University has a priority deadline of February 1 each year. The Student Financial Aid office offers step-by-step instructions on completing FAFSA. You can still submit your FAFSA after that date, but be aware that filing earlier will provide you maximum aid consideration.

Learn more about the types of financial aid available to students.

Ohio State Scholarships and Grants

The Scarlet and Gay LGBTQ Alumni Society awards a number of scholarships to LGBTQ+ and allied students of diverse identities, areas of study and interests at The Ohio State University. Scarlet and Gay LGBTQ Alumni Society scholarships range in value from $2,000 to $2,500 and are available to those students who meet certain eligibility criteria and who complete their applications on time.

ScholarshipUniverse is a scholarship-matching tool that simplifies the process of finding and applying for internal and external scholarships. Once you create your profile, ScholarshipUniverse will alert you to possible scholarship matches. For more: go.osu.edu/scholarshipfaqs.

National Scholarships

Point Foundation (Point) - the largest scholarship-granting organization for LGBTQ students in the United States, supports their “Point Scholars” through scholarship funding, mentorship and leadership development programs.

Pedro Zamora Young Leaders Scholarship - Dedicated to continuing the legacy of AIDS educator and activist Pedro Zamora, the Scholarship seeks to support the academic efforts of young activists working in their communities today. Using the HIV/AIDS activism movement as an example, the scholarship supports those taking up social justice work in its many forms and working at the intersection of these movements with their communities to drive progress.

ASCAP Foundation Pride in Music Scholarship - A new initiative to benefit undergraduate or graduate students who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community looking to pursue a career in music. This scholarship is designed to promote tolerance and acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community and to support music creators in expressing their individuality, creativity, and experiences through music. Two recipients will each receive a $2,500 scholarship to be used towards school tuition.

LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship - An annual scholarship ($500) open to all students who are part of the LGBTQ+ community and pursuing higher education.

For additional LGBTQ-related scholarships check out these guides:

There are also online databases available to search for financial aid opportunities for LGBTQ+ and allied students. We recommend:

Graduate, Professional, and PhD Student Scholarships

While many scholarships are only available to undergraduate students, there are still scholarship opportunities for students pursuing advanced degrees. The website OnlineMastersDegrees.org has created a guide on Scholarships and Resources for LGBTQ Graduate Students.