North Columbus News

The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College have announced a new program aimed at increasing access to four-year degrees for central Ohio students. The initiative, called Buckeye Bridge, will allow low- to middle-income Ohio residents who complete an associate degree at Columbus State to finish their bachelor’s degree at Ohio State without paying tuition or mandatory fees.

Buckeye Bridge is part of Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr.’s “Education for Citizenship 2035” strategic framework. The program supports efforts to improve access, affordability, workforce development, and service in the state.

“Buckeye Bridge is an exciting new opportunity to expand access and affordability for Ohio students and meet the workforce needs of our state,” Carter said. “With this program, students will be able to develop the skills they need for in-demand careers that require four-year degrees. We’re so pleased to join with our longtime partners at Columbus State on this important effort.”

Currently, more than 1,000 students transfer from Columbus State to Ohio State each year, making it the largest transfer partnership in Ohio. Officials expect Buckeye Bridge will increase those numbers as both institutions work together on established transfer pathways.

Columbus State President David Harrison stated, “Buckeye Bridge will have a transformational impact. This is a guaranteed opportunity for a debt-free bachelor’s degree, designed to make it easy and predictable for students and families. Together, Columbus State and Ohio State are not only helping students launch successful careers, we’re strengthening the talent ecosystem that drives our region’s economic prosperity.”

In addition to covering tuition and fees, Buckeye Bridge provides coordinated support services from both schools aimed at helping transfer students overcome other challenges they may face during their academic journey.

Students who want to participate must be Ohio residents with an associate degree from Columbus State, file a FAFSA annually by the priority deadline, maintain full-time enrollment at Ohio State, and have a family adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less as verified through FAFSA documentation. Admission is guaranteed to Ohio State’s Columbus campus for all eligible bachelor’s programs; however, some majors may have additional requirements or competitive selection processes.

The program launches in Spring 2026 for Columbus State graduates starting at Ohio State in autumn semester of that year.