Apply for FREE
Our application for admission is free! Regular admission to the college is open to all who have earned a high school diploma, completed homeschooling at the secondary level, or passed the General Education Development (GED) test. Applications are due 1.5 weeks prior to the start of the term or semester in which you plan to enroll.
Upcoming start dates:
- Autumn semester: Aug. 25, 2025
- Spring semester: Jan. 6, 2025
- Summer semester: May 19, 2025
Invest in you
We strive to make education affordable for every student who walks in our doors
COTC’s tuition is among the lowest in the state. We offer scholarships and grants — including our free-college Promise programs — to further reduce your cost of a college education. In addition, you can minimize the cost of a bachelor’s degree by starting at COTC.*
$1.3 million in scholarships available
$2,500 average scholarship award
78% of students receive grants or scholarships
Paying for college Scholarships
*Based on average tuition (instructional and general fees) at university main campuses reported by Ohio Department of Higher Education annual survey for fiscal year 2024.
Four locations in central Ohio
Our flagship Newark campus offers a comprehensive inventory of academic programs and full-service access to college services.
Our extended campuses — Coshocton, Knox and Pataskala — offer a convenient start to all degrees, plus some full associate degree and certificate programs. Academic advisors and student success coaches are located on each campus.
No matter where you attend, our faculty and staff are there to help you succeed.
Earn credit for what you know
Everyone’s COTC journey starts differently. Whether you’re coming to us straight out of high school or with some years in the workforce under your belt, we want to meet you where you are — which is why we offer college credit based on your professional experience.
If you have an industry-recognized credential, professional licensure, significant work experience, and/or completed an approved exam in a designated subject area, you may be eligible for college credit without taking a college course.
What our alumni say about COTC
COTC did a great job of preparing me for my career. There was a lot of hands-on training… The students that graduate from COTC go right into jobs and are very prepared. They are the ones that are going to advance and make a good wage.
—Jennifer McDonald, president and chief executive officer, Licking County Chamber of Commerce
COTC played a huge role in my career by opening the doors to continued education. It feels great to be back in Newark because it is giving me the chance to apply my work experience in school finance to a great community like Newark and at the same time feel like part of the success of a great school system.
—Julio Valladares, treasurer, Newark City Schools
My degree from COTC really opened the door for me to have a great career, and as I grew professionally, I then obtained my bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.
—Jennifer Ellis-Brunn, director, Licking County Job & Family Services