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The Choose Ohio First (COF) Scholarship Program is a state-funded program through the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE). The program is aimed at providing scholarships for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. Students enrolled in an eligible STEM program can receive a minimum of $500 up to $9,260 per academic year (summer, fall, and spring) depending on your degree type, program, and hours of enrollment. The COF scholarship is restricted to tuition & general fees as well as books. If students receive a different tuition restricted scholarship, you may not be eligible for COF.

COF Scholarship is renewable each semester through degree completion contingent upon the student meeting established eligibility criteria each term and continued funding from ODHE. Mercy College provides a matching grant for the Choose Ohio First scholarship recipients.

COF Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be an Ohio Resident

  • Must be registered with Selective Service as required by the State of Ohio (male students only).

  • Must be accepted and enrolled into one of the approved STEM programs at Mercy College.

  • Must be new to the eligible STEM program at Mercy College. Transfer students new to an eligible STEM program are eligible.

Maintaining Scholarship Eligibility at Mercy College

  • Maintain continued enrollment in an eligible STEM program.

  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

  • Must be involved in work-based learning through a co-op, internship, or research experience at least once during your time as a COF Scholar.

  • Meet regularly with your academic advisor.

  • Make satisfactory academic progress towards degree completion: at least 67%.

Eligible STEM Programs at Mercy College of Ohio

COF scholarship application deadline: New Applicants to Eligible STEM Program must apply at least two weeks before the start of the semester you plan to enroll.

For more information about COF, click  here.