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Otterbein University

Westerville, OH·Private nonprofit·2,055 students
Last updated: March 22, 2026

A good fit for students who want accessible admissions and students who prefer a mid-size campus. no major red flags in the data. financial aid brings net price below sticker.

83%
Accept
2,055
Students
$22,140
Net Price
69%
Grad Rate
$46,900
Earnings
10 yr
$20,500
Debt

About This School

Otterbein University is a private nonprofit institution located in Westerville, Ohio with approximately 2,055 undergraduate students enrolled. Otterbein University has an open or accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 83%. The average net price after financial aid is $22,140 per year. The graduation rate is 69%, and the typical graduate earns $46,900 within 10 years of enrollment.

Otterbein University is a private university in Westerville, Ohio, United States. The university was founded in 1847 by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ and named for United Brethren founder, Philip William Otterbein. It has been associated since 1968 with the United Methodist Church.

Worth considering if you're looking for a small, accessible private college near Columbus — the 83% acceptance rate and $22,140 average net price make it a realistic option without breaking the bank. The numbers tell a mixed story, though: a 69% graduation rate is below average for a private school, and median earnings of $46,900 a decade out aren't especially strong for the cost. If you're drawn to smaller class sizes and a tight-knit campus, just make sure to research your specific program's outcomes before committing.

Founded
1846
Setting
Large suburb

Popular Programs

Health Professions16%
Business & Marketing13%
Biological Sciences10%
Visual & Performing Arts9%
Education8%
Psychology7%
Communications6%
Social Sciences5%

Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.

Notable Alumni

Rachael HarrisDavid GrafJonathan BennettCory Michael SmithSam JaegerHenry Clay FrickAgnes Meyer DriscollAhmed Naser Al-RaisiGordon JumpJames ScullyJeremy Bobb

Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.

Admissions

SAT Scores

Average Composite1220

ACT Scores

Midpoint Composite23

Cost & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition
$34,899
Out-of-State Tuition
$34,899
Avg Net Price
$22,140
after aid

Financial Aid

Students receiving Pell Grants29%
Median debt at graduation$20,500

Full Cost

After Graduation

Graduation Rate
69%
within 6 years
Retention Rate
82%
freshmen returning
Earnings (10 yr)
$46,900
after enrollment
Median Debt
$20,500
at graduation

Will This School Pay Off?

Median Debt
$20,500
at graduation
Earnings (6 yr)
$37,200
after enrollment
Earnings (10 yr)
$46,900
after enrollment
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio: 2.3x

Solid return. Earnings outpace debt, though major choice matters.

Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. These are means across all graduates, not specific to any major.

Student Body

White70%
Black11%
Hispanic/Latino6%
Asian4%

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2,055 undergraduates).

Contact & Location

Address

Otterbein University

1 South Grove Street

Westerville, OH 43081

View on Google Maps →

Other Schools in Ohio

Browse all Ohio schools →

Sources & Methodology

Data

Primary data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Accessed via automated sync. Latest values may come from different reporting years depending on the metric.

Contextual Enrichment

School overview from Wikipedia. Used for context only, not as a primary data source for admissions, cost, or outcomes claims.

Important Caveats
  • Earnings figures are institution-level averages, not major-specific.
  • Some metrics are based on Title IV financial aid recipients only.
  • Some values may be privacy-suppressed or rolled up by the Department of Education.
  • Contact the school directly for current admissions requirements and costs.
Trademarks

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