The Ohio State University is strongly committed to fostering a campus where all students can thrive. The Morrill Scholarship Program (MSP) offers scholarships and educational enrichment opportunities to academically talented students dedicated to scholarship, leadership, service and civic engagement.
One of Ohio State’s premier scholarship programs, the Morrill Scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis to students admitted to the Columbus campus for the autumn semester following high school graduation. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States.
Future Students
Eligibility criteria
One of Ohio State's premier scholarship programs, the Morrill Scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis to students admitted to the Columbus campus for the autumn semester following high school graduation. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States.
MSP seeks academically talented high school seniors who will:
- Contribute leadership on campus where students from all backgrounds may succeed
- Engage on campus as effective change leaders who advocate for a positive campus climate where all students may flourish
Future MSP Students FAQ
What is the MSP mission statement?
One of Ohio State’s premier scholarship programs, The Morrill Scholarship Program (MSP) contributes to the OSU campus where all students can thrive. MSP provides scholarships and education enrichment opportunities to academically talented students committed to scholarship, leadership, service, and civic engagement.
How do I apply for MSP?
When completing the common application, there is a question that asks if you would like to be considered for MSP. If you check the box, an additional essay question will appear. Be sure to complete the essay and include any scholarship, leadership, service, and civic engagement activities on the Student Activity list.
What if I have already submitted my admissions application and I still want to apply for MSP?
No worries. Contact MSP and request a supplemental application. The supplemental application will be attached to your common application.
When will I be notified as to whether I have received the Morrill Scholarship?
MSP notifications are sent out on a rolling basis via email. All students will be notified by the end of March at the latest, at which time, we will let you know either way.
Current Morrill Scholars
As dynamic change leaders, Morrill Scholars participate in civic engagement and advocacy activities/events across campus and in the broader community. Moreover, they assume various leadership roles on campus where they share their innovative ideas to help foster a positive campus climate where all students may flourish.
MSP students participate in:
- Community building activities, wellness workshops, and service projects
- Personal and professional development workshops
- Graduate and professional school preparation and guidance
- Mentoring and tutoring to support their academic success
- Morrill Scholars Early Arrival Program
- Outreach and engagement projects on campus and in the community
- Leadership and service courses for credit toward the Leadership Studies minor
- Optional first and second-year housing with our own MSP Learning Community in Blackburn House
- Service trips and education abroad opportunities
- Paid summer internships
Current MSP Students FAQ
What are the requirements for maintaining the MSP scholarship?
Students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA by the end of their fourth semester when the first grade review occurs. Subsequent grade reviews will occur at the end of each Spring Semester thereafter. Students must also be enrolled full-time and participate in MSP programs/events/activities.
If I am a Distinction Scholar and I choose to live off campus after my second year, does my MSP scholarship still cover room and board?
It depends. After all tuition/fees are paid, any remaining amount of the Distinction Award would refund to the student. The student will use that refund towards off-campus living expenses. The amount of the refund can differ depending on the student’s situation. Please reach out to Scholarship Services for counseling on your specific account.
What happens if I fall below the required 3.0 cumulative GPA for the program?
If the student falls below a 3.0 cumulative GPA by the first grade review conducted by the Office Of Student Financial Aid, they will have two options: 1) self-correct (i.e. reach a 3.0 CGPA to have the scholarship reinstated), or 2) submit a grade appeal based on extenuating circumstances and accompanied by documentation.
Application Process
Step 1: Apply for admission to The Ohio State University by Nov. 1, which is the priority deadline date. Note that the application and all required materials (application fee, test scores, transcripts, etc.) are due by this priority deadline date. Visit apply.osu.edu for more information.
- We highly recommend that you submit the application and all required application materials by Nov. 1; however, we will accept applications through Jan. 15, which is the Ohio State application deadline date.
Step 2: On the application, check the appropriate box that indicates your interest in being considered for the Morrill Scholarship Program, and then complete the essay prompt.
Step 3: Be sure to include leadership, service, and civic engagement involvement on the activity list.
Essay and Activities Review Process
The Morrill Scholarship Program scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to students admitted to the Columbus campus each autumn semester.
On the application, if you check “YES,” indicating your interest in the Morrill Scholarship Program (MSP) and you provide an essay response to the question, your application is forwarded to MSP after the admissions decision is complete.
Have MSP application questions?
If you have questions about the application process, please contact MSP at morrillscholars@osu.edu.
Contact MSP
Morrill Scholarship Program
Hale Hall
154 West 12th Avenue
Columbus OH 43210
morrillscholars@osu.edu