The mission of our unique institution focuses on providing a Christian education to those who are found worthy, primarily from the Ozarks region, but who may be without sufficient means to obtain such training. At College of the Ozarks, we're looking for high-achieving and hardworking students who might lack the financial resources to pay for a private, Christian college in our region. These students are the ones who will impact the world! If you fit that bill, you might be a good candidate for admission!

Students must be at least 17 years old by the first day of Character Camp (new student orientation) of the semester for which they are applying. 

90% of each entering class must demonstrate financial need. The financial need requirement is waived for only 10% of each entering class.

Financial aid from College of the Ozarks is provided through a student’s participation in C of O’s specialized work study program, from any supplemental grants for college a student might receive, from the C of O “Cost of Education” Scholarship and more. College of the Ozarks discourages the borrowing of money to pay for education, and every student will get the opportunity to graduate debt-free.

In addition to demonstrating financial need, prospective students should be in the top half of their graduating class with a preferred high school GPA of at least 3.0. They should also seek to obtain our preferred score of at least 20 on the ACT or a 1030 on the SAT. Most of our students' grades and test scores are well above these standards.

We pay particular attention not only to these grading and testing factors, but also to the types of courses taken in high school and their levels of difficulty. It is to your advantage in the admissions process to have above average grades, especially in English classes. The College provides scholarships to every student admitted; and it is important that the College invest its resources in students who have a track record of success in their academic experiences.

• They live with parents/legal guardians (within 40 miles of the College) and demonstrate a significant financial need
• They are married (living within forty miles of the College)
• They are Veterans of the armed services (living within forty miles of the College)

Exceptions to the first-year, on-campus living policy are considered for Veterans of the armed services.

Students are reminded that there is a maximum number of commuting positions available. Priority is given to students who are student teaching or completing nursing preceptorships outside the forty-mile distance of the College.