Strengthening STEM in Ohio

The Choose Ohio First (COF) Scholarship is designed to significantly strengthen Ohio’s competitiveness within STEM disciplines and STEM education. Choose Ohio First is part of a strategic effort to retain Ohio residents and bolster Ohio’s economic strength by ensuring a ready workforce for STEM-related industries.

New and transfer undergraduate students are automatically considered for COF Scholarship funding. Students must be residents of Ohio, enrolled in an eligible academic program, and have a valid FAFSA completed by February 1st to be considered. No application is required; simply apply for admission and file your FAFSA. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years of an undergraduate degree, contingent on continued eligibility and state funding.  

Up to 50 scholarships are awarded each year if enrolling in one of the following majors:

• Computer Engineering 
• Electronic and Computer Engineering Technology
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Science

Up to 10 scholarships are awarded each year if enrolling in one of the following majors:

• Biochemistry
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Engineering 
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Science
• Electronic and Computer Engineering Technology
• Environmental Biology
• Environmental Science
• Geology/Earth Science
• Mathematics
• Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Physical Sciences
• Physics
• Pre-Dentistry Studies
• Pre-Medicine Studies
• Sustainability 
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Discover Engineering
• Discover Engineering Technologies and Engineering-Related Fields
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Industrial Technology/Technician
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering/Mechanical Technology/Technician

*Please note: Not all eligible majors are eligible for the same funding