Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program

Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program is sponsored by Stark State College. Supports students pursuing degrees in STEMM disciplines at Stark State College.

Choose Ohio First Scholarship | Stark State College Academic support and resources Withdrawal and drop dates Academic support and resources Withdrawal and drop dates Choose Ohio First Scholarship Your future in STEMM starts here Jobs in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine (STEMM) are on the rise – and in high demand.

The Choose Ohio First Scholarship supports students just like you who are pursuing degrees or certificates in these fields. Enroll in an approved STEMM degree or certificate program for the first time at Stark State . Then apply for this renewable scholarship, which covers the cost of tuition and textbooks.

Funded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, the Choose Ohio First Scholarship helps strengthen Ohio’s talent pipeline and builds a stronger, more innovative workforce.

What the scholarship covers Tuition (instructional and general fees) Required textbooks from the Stark State College Store Plus, as a Stark State student, you’ll have access to academic and personal support services like student success workshops, counseling, engagement and outreach, and career services to help you thrive during your college journey.

This scholarship is renewable for the duration of your program as long as you maintain your ongoing scholarship requirements. Award amounts may vary annually based on Choose Ohio First program guidelines. Check out these FAQs for more information on eligibility requirements and scholarship details.

Frequently asked questions What is the Choose Ohio First Scholarship? + The Choose Ohio First Scholarship supports academically talented students pursuing science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) degrees or certificates at Ohio higher ed institutions, including Stark State College. It’s funded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education and designed to strengthen Ohio’s competitiveness in STEMM fields.

What are the benefits of receiving this scholarship? + Financial assistance toward tuition (including instructional and general fees) and book fees. Access to advising and career development resources.

Real-world, hands-on learning opportunities through required work-based learning experiences like internships, research projects, co-ops and job shadowing. How much will the scholarship amount be, and what will it cover? + Award amounts can vary annually based on Choose Ohio First program guidelines.

The scholarship covers tuition (instructional and general fees) and books from the Stark State College Store. Each academic year, students earning degrees must spend a minimum of $1,500 and students earning certificates must spend at least $500. Is the program I’m interested in part of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship?

+ For 2025-26, more than 70 Stark State programs are covered by the Choose Ohio First Scholarship, including: Civil engineering – architectural and construction management CNC technical one-year certificate Computer science and engineering Concept-based nursing (RN) Cyber security and computer forensics technology Emergency medical services Medical assisting certificate Occupational therapy assistant Physical therapist assistant Click to view the full list of eligible majors .

What are the requirements to receive and maintain this scholarship? + To receive the scholarship, you must: Be newly enrolled in an eligible STEMM degree or certificate program. Be an Ohio resident and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Have a high school or transfer GPA of 3. 0 or higher. Meet college-ready test score requirements: English Reading Math ACUE Writeplacer: 4+ SAT EBRW: 450+ NGAR Reading: 240+ SAT EBRW: 460+ NQAS or NAAF Math: 250+ Males age 18 or over must have registered with the selective service, if required.

To maintain the scholarship, you must: Make consistent academic progress toward your degree or certificate. Participate in an internship, co-op or other work-based learning experience. Keep a cumulative Stark State College GPA of 3.

0 or higher. What forms are required to accept the scholarship? + You must complete and return the Scholarship Acceptance Form, which will be attached to your award email.

What’s work-based learning, and why is it required? + Work-based learning is a key component of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship. It includes internships, research positions, job shadowing, clinicals or co-ops that align with your major.

In some cases, class coursework could fulfill these requirements, like a mandatory clinical class for health majors. These experiences enhance your real-world skills and prepare you for Ohio’s STEMM workforce.

If you’re approved for the Choose Ohio Scholarship and have questions about the work-based learning requirement, reach out to the Stark State Career Services office for help finding an experience that suits your major and availability. Go to starkstate. edu/careerservices for more information: 330-494-6170 ext.

4525, careerservices@starkstate. edu , office M104 (main campus). Can I use this scholarship for any major?

+ No. The Choose Ohio First Scholarship is awarded only to students enrolled in eligible STEMM majors. I’m not new to my major. Do I still qualify?

+ No. Only students who are newly enrolled in their approved majors are eligible to receive the Choose Ohio First Scholarship. What happens if I change my major? + The Choose Ohio First Scholarship is awarded based on your major at the time you’re selected.

Changing your major to a non-STEMM field will result in the loss of your scholarship. Always consult your advisor before making academic changes. Contact financial aid to inquire whether or not the new major you’re considering will be eligible for the scholarship.

Is the scholarship renewable each year? + Yes, the scholarship is renewable for the duration of your program, provided you continue to make progress toward graduation and meet all academic, enrollment and participation requirements.

Policies impacting financial aid Standards of academic progress Special and unusual circumstances Student rights and responsibilities Upcoming changes to federal financial aid Strengthening Community Colleges Grant Sustainable Polymers Scholars Program Choose Ohio First Scholarship Foundation scholarships application Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers Association Scholarship Nader Abueteen Family Scholarships Return to Learn Scholarship Stacie Cross Annual Scholarship Veterans Scholarship Application Payment options and deadlines Stark State’s federal school code is 011141 Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State. studentservices@starkstate. edu 6200 Frank Ave.

NW, North Canton, OH 44720 *Offices close at 3 p. m. on Fridays during June and July