Oregon State University
The Vibe Check
Oregon State has a quintessential Pacific Northwest feel, blending a rigorous academic atmosphere with a laid-back, outdoorsy energy. The campus buzzes with school spirit, especially on game days, but the surrounding natural beauty of the Willamette Valley offers a calming escape. It feels like a place where students are collaborative and driven, yet grounded by the region's progressive and eco-conscious culture.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1245
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 25
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
As a top-tier research university (R1), OSU is renowned for its powerhouse engineering, computer science, and natural resources programs, backed by significant federal funding. Students benefit from hands-on learning and direct access to world-class research opportunities, even as undergraduates. The academic environment is challenging and practical, with a strong focus on solving real-world problems.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Corvallis
Life in Corvallis revolves around the campus and the outdoors; students frequently hike in nearby forests, bike the extensive local trail system, or float the Willamette River in the summer. The downtown area offers a cozy, walkable scene with coffee shops, bookstores, and farm-to-table restaurants, while the vibrant student union and Division I sports provide classic university excitement.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($64,010):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Corvallis is consistently ranked as one of the safest college towns in the nation, with a crime rate significantly lower than the national average. The OSU campus is well-lit and has robust emergency alert systems and campus patrols, fostering a secure environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Elite research opportunities in STEM fields, even for undergraduates, thanks to its R1 status and federal funding.
- ✓ A beautiful, safe, and bike-friendly campus in a vibrant college town with a strong sense of community.
- ✓ Powerful alumni network and strong industry connections, particularly in the Pacific Northwest's tech and engineering sectors.
Cons
- ✗ The remote location in the Willamette Valley means travel can be difficult and expensive for out-of-state students.
- ✗ Winters are long, dark, and rainy, which can be a challenge for students not accustomed to the Pacific Northwest climate.
- ✗ While lively, the social scene is more low-key compared to large party schools, with fewer major city amenities immediately accessible.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Oregon State University is nationally renowned for its programs in engineering, computer science, forestry, marine science, and agriculture. As a land, sea, space, and sun grant institution, it is a top-tier (R1) research university with significant federal funding, particularly in STEM fields. It is also known for its strong sense of community, beautiful campus, and commitment to sustainability.
Oregon State has a moderately selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of approximately 78.85%. While not one of the most competitive universities, admission to popular and specialized programs like engineering and computer science is significantly more challenging. Applicants should focus on maintaining a strong GPA and demonstrating a clear interest in their chosen field of study.
Campus life at OSU is a dynamic mix of academic rigor, school spirit, and outdoor adventure. Students enjoy a vibrant social scene centered around NCAA Division I athletics, hundreds of student clubs, and a bustling Memorial Union. The surrounding Corvallis area offers a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to hiking, biking, and the arts.
For in-state students, OSU is an excellent value, offering a top-tier education at a public university price with a strong 10-year median earnings of $64,010. The investment is often justified by the high-quality STEM programs and strong alumni network in the Pacific Northwest. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the major, but the return on investment remains solid, especially for graduates in engineering and computer science.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 34,543
- In-State Tuition $13,494
- Out-of-State $35,664
- Zip Code 97331
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, OSU offers a high-value education with a relatively low sticker price and a strong return on investment, with median 10-year earnings exceeding $64,000. The net price of around $19,500 is competitive for a major public research university, and the high retention rate suggests students are satisfied with their investment. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh the higher tuition against the robust alumni network and strong outcomes in high-demand fields like tech and engineering.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.