University of Oklahoma Family Guide

GREATNESS BEGINS WITH ONE A supporter's guide to navigating your student’s OU journey.

WHAT ONE

CAN DO

One Student, One University, One Oklahoma When the University of Oklahoma was founded in

One is your student: full of potential, ready

1890 as the state’s flagship institution, it became

to be shaped, standing on the edge of discovery,

a catalyst for even greater discoveries. OU’s

and creating connections that lead toward

longstanding tradition of excellence continues to

achievement.

inspire the next generation of students. Thanks to our relentless pursuit of greatness, your student

One is our campus: a launchpad for the futures

will be surrounded by opportunities both inside

of our students, a home away from home, and a

and outside of the classroom, challenged to grow

place where they will serve, thrive, and lead.

exponentially, and supported not only by you, but

by OU’s world-class faculty, passionate staff, and

One is transformation: a journey that begins

fellow classmates.

the moment a student joins the OU Family, where resiliency is built, purpose is found, and

At OU, we believe there is only one Oklahoma.

25,000 #1

what’s possible is completely redefined.

19:1 100+

STUDENTS

OKLAHOMA

UNIVERSITY IN

STUDENT-TO-FACULTY

STUDY ABROAD

representing all 50 states and over 130 countries

according to U.S. News & World Report 2025

with an average class size of 34 students

in 50+ countries

UNDERGRADUATE

RATIO

PROGRAMS

There’s only greatness ahead.

When a student takes the first step toward higher education, something truly remarkable happens. The college search journey is one of self-discovery and opportunity, and we are honored that your family is considering the University of Oklahoma.

OU has been recognized as the No. 1 university in Oklahoma and a top five public university in the region by U.S. News & World Report. But what truly sets us apart is the experience behind those numbers: the sense of belonging your student will find here, our commitment to academic excellence, and the transformational experiences that take place every day on our campus.

OU is more than just a path to a degree. During the time a student calls our campus home, every moment contributes to building the skills, education, connections, and support system needed to achieve any goal, both professionally and personally.

Finding the right college for your student is a significant undertaking. As higher education professionals, we are dedicated to connecting your family with the resources and information needed to ensure your student has everything required to choose the right place to call home. Parents and supporters play a vital role in this process, and we commend you for all that you are doing to help your student thrive.

If you have any questions, I encourage you to contact the OU Office of Admissions and Recruitment. We would love to be part of your student’s college search journey in any way we can. Each student is paired with an OU Admissions Counselor who can help explore academic options and answer any application or post-admission questions. Find your student’s admissions counselor at go2.ou.edu/rep.

Every step in the college search journey opens endless possibilities. We are excited to explore what your student can accomplish with the OU Family.

Sincerely,

JEFF J. BLAHNIK | Vice President, Division of Enrollment Management Chief Enrollment Officer

LIFE ON CAMPUS 3

Welcome to OU

5

Academic Majors

7

Honors

8

Research

9

Athletics

10

Student Organizations

11

Housing & Food

13

Health & Safety

14

Academic Success

EXPLORE CAMPUS 15

Visit

16

Campus Events

17

Advice From OU Tour Guides

18

Tour Experiences

APPLY 19

Concurrent Enrollment

21

Apply to OU

COST & AFFORDABILITY 23

Affordability

24

Financial Aid

25

Scholarships

26

Oklahoma’s Promise & Crimson Commitment

THE VALUE OF AN OU DEGREE 27

Outcomes

28

OU Career Center

ADMISSION RESOURCES 29

Student Checklist

31

Terms to Know

32

OU Family Programs

3 | Welcome to OU

ONE CAMPUS MANY ROADS Students find more than just a college at OU, they find a community.

From cheering in a sea of crimson and cream at football games to joining student organizations and exploring hands-on learning opportunities, campus life is designed to help your student grow both personally and academically.

Where students thrive inside and outside the classroom.

As the state’s largest research institution, we are committed to giving students a career-focused education that will help them succeed. Whether through internships, research projects, or collaborative learning, students graduate with more than a degree.

They leave with published work, prototypes, industry connections, and a resume that stands out.

At OU, each student becomes part of one powerful network, where learning, living, and launching into life after college all come together.

Welcome to OU | 4

5 | Academic Majors

170+ DEGREE PATHS Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences African & African American Studies Anthropology* Arabic Asian Studies Astronomy Astrophysics Biochemistry Biology: – Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology – Integrative Biological Systems – Microbiology – Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Chemical Biosciences Chemistry Chemistry & Biochemistry Chinese Classics: – Classical Languages – Classical Studies – Latin Communication Community Health Economics* English: – Literary & Cultural Studies* – Writing* European Studies European Studies: Russian & Eastern European Studies Film & Media Studies French German Global Energy, Environment & Resources Health & Exercise Science Health, Medicine & Society

History History of Science, Technology & Medicine Human Health & Biology Human Relations Information Science & Technology Information Studies* International Development International Security Studies International Studies* Italian Japanese Judaic Studies Latin American Studies Latinx Studies Letters Letters: Constitutional Studies Linguistics Mathematics* Middle Eastern Studies Native American Studies Philosophy Physics Planned Program: Design Your Degree Political Science* Political Science: Elections & Campaign Management Psychology Public & Nonprofit Administration* Public Health Religious Studies Russian Social Work Sociology* Sociology: Criminology Spanish Women’s & Gender Studies

Michael F. Price College of Business

Gallogly College of Engineering

Accounting* Economics* Energy Management Entrepreneurship & Venture Management* Finance* Healthcare Business International Business Management* Management Information Systems* Marketing* Sports Business Supply Chain Management*

Aerospace Engineering* Applied Artificial Intelligence* Architectural Engineering* Biomedical Engineering* Chemical Engineering* Chemical Engineering: – Biotechnology – Pre-Med – Sustainability Civil Engineering* Computer Engineering* Computer Science* Cybersecurity** Electrical Engineering* Engineering Analytics Engineering Physics Environmental Engineering* Environmental Science* Healthcare Information Systems Industrial & Systems Engineering* Industrial & Systems Engineering: – Analytics* – Pre-Med Mechanical Engineering* Mechanical Engineering: Pre-Med Software Development & Integration

College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences Aviation: – Air Traffic Management – Aviation Management:

– Flying^

– Non-Flying – Professional Pilot

– Airplane^

– Helicopter Environmental Studies Environmental Sustainability* Geographic Information Science* Geography* Meteorology*

Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture Architecture* Construction Science* Environmental Design* Interior Design*

Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication Advertising* Creative Media Production* Journalism* Professional Writing Public Relations*

Academic Majors | 6

Is your student unsure what degree path to pursue? Our quick assessment at ou.mymajors.com pairs students with best-fit majors. Your student can also work with the Center for Major & Career Exploration, which offers resources to empower students to select a major and develop a foundation for academic and professional success.

Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts

Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education

Acting Art Art History Art, Technology & Culture (incl Photography & New Media) Ballet Pedagogy Ballet Performance Dramaturgy Modern Dance Performance Music Music Composition Music Education: – Instrumental – Vocal Music Performance: – Brass & Percussion – Harp – Instrumental Jazz – Organ – Piano – Strings & Guitar – Voice – Woodwinds Musical Theatre Performance Piano Pedagogy Studio Art: – Ceramics – Painting – Printmaking – Sculpture Theatre: – Acting – Costume Design – Dramaturgy – Lighting Design – Scenic Design – Stage Management – Sound Design Visual Communication (incl Graphic Design)

Early Childhood Education Elementary Education Language Arts Education Mathematics Education Science Education: – Biological Sciences – Chemistry – Earth Sciences – Physical Science – Physics Social Studies Education Special Education World Language Education: – French – German – Latin – Spanish

Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy Environmental Geology GeoEnergy Engineering Geology Geophysics Paleontology Petroleum Engineering* Petroleum Geology

OU Health Campus OU Health Campus is home to seven professional health colleges and over 70 academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral levels. Programs are available at campuses in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, as well as six learning sites across the state to meet the healthcare needs in Oklahoma. Students interested in an OU Health Campus bachelor’s program will start their academic journey at the Norman campus and move to the OU Health Campus, OU-Tulsa Campus, or six learning sites after meeting admission qualifications to the program of interest.

Bachelor's programs (two years on OU Norman Campus + two years with OU Health Campus):

Communication Sciences & Disorders Dental Hygiene Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences: – Nuclear Medicine – Radiation Therapy – Radiography – Sonography Nursing Please visit discover.ouhsc.edu for a full list of the 70+ health-related programs, including graduate and professional programs.

*These areas offer optional accelerated master’s programs **A bachelor's degree completion program only offered on the OU-Tulsa campus ^Admission application open August 1 — November 1

7 | Honors

ONE PLACE

FOR SCHOLARS OU’s Honors College provides small class sizes, study abroad and mentorship opportunities, and a stimulating academic program for intellectually motivated undergraduate students. Students must first be admitted to OU to apply for the Honors College, as well as the Medical Humanities Scholars Program or Pre-Law Scholars program. Learn more about the benefits of honors and application requirements at honors.ou.edu.

Medical Humanities Scholars Program OU’s Medical Humanities Scholars Program is a highly selective, sequential B.A./M.D. program. Selected students (up to eight per year) pursue a liberal arts education focused on medicine and society while fulfilling their premedical requirements. Upon admission into the program, students receive provisional acceptance to OU’s College of Medicine, contingent upon their GPA and MCAT scores.

Pre-Law Scholars Program A limited number of students (up to 25 per year) will be selected to join the Pre-Law Scholars Program before their enrollment as undergraduates at OU. The Pre-Law Scholars Program allows Honors College students to complete both a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor at OU in six years.

Research | 8

One discovery can change everything.

Research opportunities are abundant at OU, with some available the moment your student steps on campus. The FirstYear Research Engagement (FYRE) Program leads students through semester-long active laboratory research overseen by a professor and ends with a presentation of research findings.

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) is open to all OU undergraduate students interested in pursuing exciting research endeavors. These are just two ways students earn hands-on experience in their fields of interest.

“

The greatest resource for our family has been the Bizzell Memorial Library. My children have spent countless

hours there. The Honors College has also been a tremendous opportunity, offering access to top-tier classes, outstanding professors, and smaller class sizes. Thanks to that program, three of my four children have graduated from OU with Honors, and our son is well on his way to doing the same!”

CARLA SALIBA | Supporter

9 | Athletics

45 NATIONAL

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Whether you are a lifelong fan or new to the OU Family, you will be swept away by OU Athletics. OU owns one of the greatest winning traditions in intercollegiate athletics, and our entrance into the Southeastern Conference (SEC) elevates our excellence to even greater national prominence than ever before. Students, alumni, and fans across generations are united through campus traditions like the OU Chant, wearing crimson and cream on game day, and cheering alongside thousands in the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, one of America’s most recognized college football cathedrals.

Student Organizations | 10

All students are encouraged to find their community through OU’s vibrant student life. Here, we can promise that there is something for everyone — whether through major-specific opportunities, a community to dive into to make lasting friendships, or a philanthropic organization that helps create OU legacies. Not only are there abundant opportunities for intramural sports, volunteer groups, and student government, but over 30% of our students also join one of the 50+ active chapters in Greek Life. As committed global citizens, student life goes well beyond on-campus opportunities, with over 100 study abroad opportunities in more than 50 countries!

500+ STUDENT

ORGANIZATIONS

11 | Housing & Food

ONE PLACE

TO CALL HOME

Moving to campus is more than just a change of address, it’s a major life transition. For many students, it will be their first time living away from family while also navigating new responsibilities as full-time college students. That’s why OU Housing and Food Services is committed to creating a supportive and safe environment where your student can thrive.

Our residence halls are designed to be student-centered communities that encourage connection, foster lifelong friendships, and help students build a true sense of belonging. Living on campus places your student at the center of university life, just steps from classes, dining, events, and the resources that support their success.

All first-year students are required to live in designated University housing for two semesters unless they qualify for an approved exemption. This immersive experience helps students build a strong foundation for both academic achievement and personal growth.

Housing amenities Your student’s residential experience is more than just a place to sleep and study, it’s a foundation for discovery and where lifelong memories are made with peers. Housing amenities offered to students include: Full-time, live-in residence life

Fully furnished housing with a

All utilities included

staff and upperclassmen resident

bed, desk and chair, and dresser

(water/electric/trash)

Windows with blinds

Storm shelters in every facility

Free tutoring

The ability to select their own room

advisors in each residence hall Wireless, high-speed internet in all rooms Dedicated study lounges Free laundry in all facilities

Accessibility to anywhere on campus with a quick walk or bike ride

and request a specific roommate

Housing & Food | 12

Eating on campus OU students have access to more than 20 dining locations conveniently spread across campus. Whether it’s a full meal at Couch Restaurants, known for its all-you-care-to-eat service, or a quick coffee and breakfast sandwich at The Grind, a coffee shop in McCasland Hall, there’s something to satisfy every appetite and schedule.

All first-year students living on campus are required to select a Meal Plan, which gives them the flexibility to eat at any Campus Dining location without the hassle of carrying cash or a credit card. Meal Plans are loaded directly onto the student’s Sooner Card mobile ID (their official OU student ID), making it easy to grab food between classes or late at night after studying.

OU offers several Meal Plan options to meet different needs and eating habits, and students can adjust their Meal Plan during the second and third weeks of each semester, allowing them to find the right fit as their routines and preferences evolve. Explore more of the most common housing and food questions by visiting ou.edu/housingandfood or scanning the QR code.

“

Everything that we have done so far with move-in has, by far, exceeded our expectations. We went to Lloyd

Noble and sent our son in so he could start his journey as an OU student. As we left the parking lot, they directed us exactly where to go so that we could end up at his residence hall, where their move-in team unloaded our cars. By the time we got parked and back inside, all his things were already in the room. They couldn’t have made it any more pleasant. Everyone has been so welcoming, and we can’t wait to watch our son thrive at OU.” STEPHANIE JORDAN | Supporter

13 | Health & Safety

ONE HEALTH SYSTEM

FOR ALL OF CAMPUS OU prioritizes the health and safety of students through a wide range of services and resources.

Goddard Health Center, a full-service medical clinic located on campus, is open to all students.

The TimelyCare Health & Well-being app provides on-demand medical care, scheduled visits, emotional support, and self-help resources, and does not require medical insurance.

In the event of severe weather threats, campus closures, and emergencies, OU’s emergency communication system, RAVE, sends your student real-time updates via text message or phone call.

Sarkeys Fitness Center offers 150,000 square feet of recreational space to support physical wellness.

The OU Police Department, an accredited law enforcement agency, also plays a vital role by providing emergency services and ensuring safety across the Norman campus.

Residence halls are equipped with card access through OU Sooner Card mobile ID, giving students secure entry to their assigned residence hall and floor and the first-floor lobbies of other centers, which feature computer labs, food services, and more.

To learn more about health and safety measures, visit go2.ou.edu/ health-and-safety.

Academic Success | 14

18,000 HOURS

OF TUTORING

With a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio, OU helps students deepen their passion for learning while building confidence in the classroom.

One way the university empowers students in their academic journeys is with the Academic Success Center (ASC). Offering free tutoring, faculty mentoring, and academic support, ASC ensures that all students thrive in their academic endeavors. ASC helps all students adjust to the transition of high school to college with action tutoring, transition courses, placement testing, and more.

15 | Visit Campus

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES

There’s only one campus like this.

Discover the spirit of the OU Family on a two-hour walking tour of OU’s 3,500-acre Norman campus.

Every campus tour starts at the Jones Family Welcome Center at Jacobson Hall. Led by a tour guide, who off the clock is a full-time OU student, your visit to campus will give you a firsthand look at everyday campus life. From hidden study spots to state-of-theart facilities, a campus tour is an opportunity to learn what makes OU home for thousands of students.

Tours are also offered in Spanish once a month.

To find the next available Spanish tour date, visit go2.ou.edu/visit.

“

We have been on at least three OU campus tours. OU’s campus is home to a rich history and more than 170

majors. I recommend visiting — the worst thing your student can do is not visit a university, accept a spot, and realize it did not meet their needs. OU met our requirements and more. Take a tour. Talk with an admissions counselor. Connect with a professor from a major your student wants to explore. It’s way worth it, and the best part is that the OU community wants to connect with you, too.”

JET TANNER | OU Parent

Campus Events | 16

You’re invited!

We love when future members of the OU Family attend our prospective student events. Throughout the year, we host on-campus events curated to help your student and family connect with current students, learn more about academic programs, and see what life is like on campus.

To learn more about student events, visit go2.ou.edu/events.

Connect with future students.

Along with exploring campus, your student can start building an OU community early with ZeeMee. Through the app, students can connect with other future Sooners, hear from current OU upperclassmen, and get guidance from admissions counselors in community chats and live-streamed videos.

Your student can download the ZeeMee app and create a profile at zeemee.app.link/joinou.

17 | Advice from OU Tour Guides

ADVICE FROM

OU TOUR GUIDES

Learn from who knows campus best: our student tour guides. Their insights can help you and your student make the most of an OU visit.

RYLIE FRANCIS | Chemical Biosciences major From Whitehouse, Texas “My favorite campus resource is Action Tutoring with the Academic Success Center. It’s been incredibly helpful. Getting support from professors and peers who’ve excelled in OU courses has made a big difference for me, especially in challenging subjects like anatomy, organic chemistry, and biochemistry.”

BRIAN BORTZ | Art, Technology, & Culture major From Collierville, Tennessee “The best places to see on a tour are the residence halls, where students live on campus; Gaylord Family - Memorial Stadium, an arena that houses 68,000 Sooners; and the MidFirst Bank MoneyCoach center, where students and family can create a Financial Success Plan for college.”

KADEN CHERRY | Biology major From Jenks, Oklahoma “Questions I recommend asking on a tour: What does student life look like inside the classroom and in Norman?

What is something you’ve done at OU that you believe wouldn’t have been possible anywhere else?

What do you love most about being an OU student?”

Tour Experiences | 18

Curate your tour Students can personalize their campus experience with academic college tours. By adding this to a campus experience, your student can take a step behind the scenes by touring major-specific facilities and meeting with staff and faculty members. Discover all the optional sessions we offer by exploring go2.ou.edu/academic-tours.

OU at your fingertips If a student can’t make it to campus or wants to learn more about OU, visit You at OU, an online student portal curated to a student’s unique interests. Here, students can connect with their OU Admissions Counselor, explore their academic college of interest, and learn more about OU resources. Encourage your student to learn more at hello.ou.edu/portal/youatou.

19 | Concurrent Enrollment

BEGIN AN OU LEGACY Your student’s journey can start today.

Your student can begin an OU education now! With OU Concurrent Enrollment, students earn college credit as high school students through on-campus or online courses. Students receive one-on-one advising and support from OU faculty and complete courses from top academic programs during high school at a fraction of the cost. To learn more about the hundreds of courses eligible for concurrent students at OU, visit go2.ou.edu/ce-courses.

Why should my student choose OU Concurrent Enrollment?

1

Online classes are available. OU offers a select list of online general education courses specifically designed and reserved for concurrent enrollment students only, providing them with a more tailored and supportive online experience.

2

No fees for online concurrent courses. Oklahoma seniors receive a tuition waiver up to 18 hours and OU waives fees for select online classes, meaning that Oklahoma seniors can take select online classes at OU for FREE.

3

OU Concurrent Enrollment is test-optional. Students can decide if they want current Pre-ACT/ACT or PSAT/SAT scores used in the evaluation of their applications.

Estimated cost For estimated cost associated with concurrent enrollment, please visit ou.edu/concurrent-enrollment/costs.

Concurrent Enrollment | 20

OU Concurrent Enrollment eligibility and application process High school juniors and seniors must have a 3.0 unweighted high school GPA and fulfill one of the following options: 24 ACT or 1160 SAT, Unweighted 3.0 GPA and top 33.3% of class (ranking number and class size), or Test-optional Students who choose to apply without a test score are considered holistically and not guaranteed enrollment in any courses prior to required assessments. Learn

Apply at ou.edu/ce by the following deadlines:

MAY

Summer Application deadline

JUNE

Fall Application deadline

NOV

Spring Application deadline

1

1 1

more at go2.ou.edu/ce-eligibility.

“

My son is a senior in high school and currently taking concurrent enrollment classes at OU. These courses are

helping ease his transition to college by allowing him to speak directly with college advisors and select classes that count toward his undergraduate degree. He’s also had the opportunity to work with university professors. It’s been an amazing experience for a high school student.”

CHRISTIAN SWARTZ | Supporter

21 | Apply

THE OU APPLICATION For incoming freshmen to receive priority consideration for financial aid, scholarships, and housing options, students are encouraged to submit their application by November 1, OU’s early action admission deadline!

The Fall 2025 freshman class

6,229 25.8

STUDENTS ENROLLED

AVERAGE ACT

3.64 1 IN 4 AVERAGE GPA

Important Dates

AUG

1

NOV

1

DEC

15

Application opens apply.ou.edu

Early action admission deadline

Final scholarship admission deadline

ARE FIRST-GENERATION college students*

*At OU, we define a first-generation student as “one

FEB

1

Final admission deadline

whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor’s degree.” Even if an older sibling is pursuing a bachelor’s degree or has already earned a degree, you are still considered a first-generation student.

MAY

1

Enrollment deposit deadline commit.ou.edu

If your student fits this description, learn more about OU’s firstgeneration support and resources by visiting go2.ou.edu/first-gensooners or scanning the QR code.

JUNE

15

New Sooner Orientation deadline newsooner.ou.edu

Apply | 22

Holistic admissions Every application is reviewed through a holistic admissions process, meaning several factors are considered.

OU is committed to admitting students who will achieve academic success at our university. Because of that, we are a test-optional institution: students do not need to submit a test score to be considered for admission and scholarships. However, we encourage applicants to submit a test score to maximize scholarship opportunities and ensure accurate course placement.

Our application is divided into four categories:

4

3

2 1

1

Academic rigor: GPA, ACT/SAT/CLT score (encouraged), course rigor,

2

Engagement: community involvement, leadership, extracurricular

3

Essay: writing and self-expression measured through the essay

4

Letters of recommendation: a letter of recommendation from a high

and class rank

activities, work experience, and exceptional talents

school official

Freshman applicants will apply one of three ways: through the OU Application, the Common Application, or Apply Coalition with Scoir. No preference is given to one over the other, but only one can be submitted. It will take up to four weeks to receive an admission decision.

Tips for the OU Application Visit go2.ou.edu/student-application-tips to learn more about the OU Application and how to help your student best prepare for the next steps in the college search journey!

“

Our family found the admissions process seamless and efficient. Everything moved quickly, OU Admissions

Counselors were accessible, and as parents, we had the opportunity to engage with various departments. There were plenty of chances to ask questions and address any concerns.”

JAMIE MEADOWS | Supporter

23 | Affordability

AFFORDABILITY

MEETS EXCELLENCE

OU is dedicated to making a highquality education both accessible and affordable. OU’s flat-rate tuition model allows students to take additional credit hours, providing greater value and flexibility in academic planning. To further support students, OU offers a variety of resources, including the Student Financial Center and MidFirst Bank MoneyCoach Program. Students also have access to financial assistance options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. These resources are designed to help ease the financial burden and empower students to focus on their academic and professional goals.

Questions about financial aid?

OU’s Student Financial Center (SFC) can help with financial aid, scholarships, billing, payments, verification, and required documents. The SFC team works to simplify the financial aid process and remove barriers so students stay informed and on track. Whether you’re navigating FAFSA verification, understanding your student’s first bill, or exploring payment options, the SFC is here to support your family from day one. Start by completing your student’s FAFSA, it’s the key to unlocking their full financial aid offer.

Financial Aid | 24

How to apply for financial aid The Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to apply for nearly all types of financial aid including federal, state, and institutional aid. The FAFSA helps to determine a family’s ability to pay for college according to a federal calculation. The result is called the Student Aid Index (SAI). This figure is used by Financial Aid Services to determine how much and what types of aid may be offered.

For incoming freshmen, families will complete the FAFSA during a student’s senior year of high school. Once enrolled at OU, it’s important students complete the FAFSA each year as soon as possible, as some student aid options may operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Submitting the FAFSA Create a FSA ID. At fafsa.gov, students and a parent will create a FSA ID to log in and complete the application. Save your FSA IDs — they will be used each year.

Complete the FAFSA. List OU as a school to receive your student’s application. OU’s Federal School Code is 003184.

Review the FAFSA Submission Summary. A confirmation email will be sent with a link to the FAFSA Submission Summary. This includes instructions to review information and make any corrections, if requested.

OU assembles your student’s aid package. When your student is admitted to OU, Financial Aid Services will assemble an aid package and send it to your student. This notification will list eligible scholarships and aid and give you an idea of any out-of-pocket expenses.

Review the aid package notification. Use this to make an informed decision about choosing OU. Your student does not have to accept the full amount offered, and it is recommended to refrain from taking out more loans than your student needs to cover out-of-pocket expenses.

Questions about financial planning and how to pay for college?

Once your student completes the FAFSA and receives their OU Financial Aid Notification, the MidFirst Bank MoneyCoach Program is ready to help your family create a personalized plan to pay for college. Attending and paying for college is a major decision, and it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. Working with MoneyCoaches will help your family understand your student’s financial aid offer, build a plan that fits your budget, and feel confident about the investment your family is making in your student's future.

“

We reviewed scholarship options together and compared the cost of attendance at OU and other schools my

son was considering. The financial aspect definitely played a role in deciding which school to attend.”

KIM ROBINSON | Supporter

25 | Scholarships

Scholarships from OU OU is committed to making a world-class education attainable. We offer multiple scholarship opportunities to admitted incoming freshmen, but to be considered, your student must apply to OU by December 15, OU’s final scholarship admission deadline. No additional application is required for OU’s merit-based awards, and applicants are encouraged to retake the ACT, SAT, and/or CLT and send their seventh semester transcript for scholarship update consideration. Explore our scholarship page to learn more about automatic academic scholarships and application deadlines by visiting go2.ou.edu/scholarships.

Additional scholarships for returning students Returning OU students can also earn scholarships each year through the Centralized Academic Scholarship Hub (CASH), including need- and merit-based scholarships, departmental and education abroad scholarships, Campus Awards, and more. Students must complete a FAFSA for need-based scholarship consideration in CASH. Learn more at ou.edu/cash.

Outside scholarships Students are encouraged to search and apply for scholarships outside of OU, both locally and nationally, and covering anything from academic achievement to community involvement. With effort and dedication, students can reap tremendous benefits when it comes to funding their college education, as every dollar adds up. If your student doesn’t know where to start, high school counselors offer a great launchpad.

Oklahoma’s Promise & Crimson Commitment | 26

Oklahoma's Promise and Crimson Commitment As part of OU’s dedication to affordability, Crimson Commitment is offered to Oklahoma’s Promise-eligible students. While Oklahoma’s Promise covers tuition, Crimson Commitment fills in the gaps by covering average student fees for four years.

Crimson Commitment Qualifications Qualify fully for Oklahoma’s Promise. Visit

To renew eligibility for Crimson Commitment,

okpromise.org to learn more.

your student must annually:

Apply to OU by February 1.

Be admitted to OU as a direct-from-high-school,

Meet and maintain eligibility requirements and conditions for Oklahoma’s Promise.

first-time, full-time freshman.

Complete the FAFSA by March 1.

Complete the FAFSA by March 1.

Be enrolled as a full-time student and maintain

Enroll as a full-time student each semester,

a four-year graduation track.

meaning your student takes a minimum of

Attend the Crimson Commitment symposiums

12 hours of coursework each semester.

(freshman year only).

Crimson Commitment is also available for select Oklahoma’s Promise eligible transfer students.

Visit go2.ou.edu/cc-transfer to learn more.

27 | Outcomes

THE VALUE OF AN OU DEGREE One legacy shared across the world.

When a student crosses the graduation stage, they leave with more than just a degree. At OU, our students are surrounded by countless opportunities to gain valuable, real-world experiences that make their OU degree worth the investments. With a global network of 250,000+ alumni, access to professors who are leaders in their fields, and endless career opportunities, our graduates are propelled toward greatness. Explore the value of an OU degree at go2.ou.edu/value.

OU Career Center | 28

Explore the OU Career Center The University of Oklahoma Career Center is a one-stop shop dedicated to helping students and alumni with career preparation.

From career fairs to personalized advising and everything in-between, the Career Center exists to help get your student hired. The Career Center is committed to helping students begin their academic career with their professional goals in mind.

Career Center Resources Career fairs to connect your student with future employers Career advising, resume critiques, and mock interviews with OU Career Center staff An on-campus office located on the third floor of the Oklahoma Memorial Union Access to free professional headshots and professional attire through the OU Career Closet Option to participate in Career Communities These Communities, based on industry rather than major, help students narrow their career aspirations into manageable and relevant fields of interest.

“

I’ve been able to see firsthand how much my student has grown both personally and professionally. The Career

Center has supported her in so many ways, and it truly shows. She’s taken full advantage of the opportunities available to her, completing two internships and already securing a full-time job after graduation. Seeing her progress has been amazing, and I couldn’t be prouder of the young professional she’s become.”

LOURDES ESPARZA | Supporter

29 | Student Checklist

YOUR STUDENT'S PATH TO OU Before Senior Year

Visit OU for a campus tour. Schedule a visit at tour.ou.edu. Don’t forget that many of our academic colleges offer additional information sessions to get a more in-depth look at specific programs of interest.

Connect with your student’s admissions counselor. Every student is assigned an OU Admissions Counselor who is here to help your family explore academic options and answer any application or postadmission questions. Find your student’s admissions counselor at go2.ou.edu/rep.

Discuss college costs. Having a conversation with your student about the affordability of OU is the first necessary step in financial planning. Decide how you will support your student through this process and begin financial planning discussions.

Keep an eye on emails. Help your student stay ahead by joining OU’s mailing list at go2.ou.edu/mailing-list. We will send you important OU admissions deadlines.

Encourage your student to track accomplishments. Ask your student to make a list of awards, honors, activities, community service, or anything else. Documentation along the way will help when completing admission and scholarship applications during your student’s senior year.

Maximize scholarship opportunities. Encourage your student to take standardized tests and enroll in test-prep classes. Higher test scores, along with AP and honors courses, volunteering, and leadership roles, increases eligibility for scholarships.

Jumpstart a college career with OU Concurrent Enrollment. Visit ou.edu/ce to stay up-to-date on important deadlines.

Attend an OU event. Explore free opportunities to connect at go2.ou.edu/events.

Student Checklist | 30

During Senior Year

Make a calendar of important dates. To see OU’s application deadlines, refer to page 21 or visit go2.ou.edu/apply.

Track high school graduation. Encourage your student to meet with their high school counselor to ensure your student is on track to graduate and fulfill college admissions requirements.

Apply to OU. The OU Application opens on August 1. Submit the application by November 1, the early action admission deadline, to receive priority admission consideration and maximize scholarship opportunities.

Complete the FAFSA. OU’s Federal School Code is 003184.

Look for outside scholarships. Be sure to check with your employer to see if they offer scholarships. To increase ACT, SAT, or CLT scores, encourage your student to practice and retake the exam. Higher scores can help with scholarships and course placements at OU. Discuss the cost of attending OU. Now that the FAFSA is complete and, if admitted, your student has received a financial aid packet, revisit college cost discussions.

Celebrate! The completion of your student’s college search is a milestone both of you will never forget!

“

My advice for families is to start early. Take college tours, visit campuses, explore different schools, and do

your research. Don’t wait until the last minute because it’ll be too late. We started during our son’s junior year, and I believe that one college tour to OU really inspired him.”

SCOTT BRYANT | Supporter

31 | Terms to Know

Application terms to know Regardless of where your student is in their college search journey, it can be challenging to decipher the most popular terms you will see as your student completes the OU Application. To help, our admissions counselors compiled a list of a few useful terms to know.

Admissions counselor: Every student has a dedicated OU Admissions Counselor. This person will serve as your go-to for all things OU as your student navigates the college decision process. Connect with your student’s admissions counselor at go2.ou.edu/rep.

Holistic admissions: There are two main types of admission that colleges use, automatic and holistic.

Automatic admission guarantees admission to students with a certain GPA, test score, and/or class rank. Holistic admission admits students based on a variety of factors, including engagement, letters of recommendation, academic rigor, and more. OU uses a holistic admissions process.

Legacy: A legacy is a student whose parent(s) or grandparent(s) graduated from OU. OU Application vs. Common Application vs. Apply Coalition with Scoir: When applying to OU, your student will have three application options to choose from: the OU Application, Common Application, and Apply Coalition with Scoir. There is no preference given to one over the other. No matter the application your student chooses, it will be thoroughly read and evaluated holistically by an OU Admissions Counselor. Your student will choose only one application and continue using that application throughout the entire process.

Superscore: OU will superscore the ACT and the SAT by combining your student’s highest subsection score from different test dates to create a composite score. OU will use superscoring for admission and scholarship decisions.

Five tips from parents and supporters 1

Regularly check in with your student about how the college search journey is going.

2

Suggest joining extracurricular clubs or activities so your student can gain experience in leadership,

3

Encourage your student to reach out to current OU students and your family’s OU Admissions Counselor to

philanthropy, and more.

learn more about campus.

4

Offer advice and support, but allow your student to make the final college decision independently.

5

Familiarize yourself with campus and the surrounding area to learn what opportunities and resources await your student at OU.

OU Family Programs | 32

One OU Family As your student begins the college search, I want to personally welcome you to this important chapter and introduce you to OU’s Parent and Family Programs.

Our office serves as the central resource and connection point for families across the country who entrust OU with a student’s success. We partner with you in supporting your student’s success every step of the way, from orientation to graduation. That can look like helping you stay informed, connecting you with OU’s abundant campus resources, or inviting you to special supporter events.

As part of the Division of Student Affairs, we work closely with offices that provide the out-of-classroom experiences that shape a student’s time at OU, like housing, dining, student organizations, and wellness. We’re also here to help you serve as a trusted advisor, offering tools and information to guide students through this transformative time.

Family plays a unique and vital role in helping students navigate the college search. Whether your student is the first in the family to attend college or a fifth-generation Sooner, you’re joining a legacy 130 years in the making.

As a parent of a current OU student, I’ve been in your shoes — I know the pride, excitement, and nerves that come with this pivotal transition. This is the start of a student’s journey toward independence, exponential growth, and lifelong success.

Our office is located on the second floor of the Oklahoma Memorial Union, open during regular business hours and special family events. We invite you to reach out, ask questions, and stay connected as your student explores what’s next. You can also visit the Parent and Family Programs website at ou.edu/parents to learn more.

Thank you for the role you play in a student’s life. I hope this guide will be a reference for you and your family during your student’s admissions journey. We look forward to supporting your family and helping students thrive on campus and beyond.

TRACY CARLSON | Assistant Director of Parent and Family Programs Division of Student Affairs

Non-profit Organization

The University of Oklahoma

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Admissions & Recruitment

PAID

550 Parrington Oval

The University of Oklahoma

Norman, OK 73019-3032

OU’s Office of Admissions and Recruitment is here to help guide you and your student throughout this process.

Discover the opportunities that await on our website admissions.ou.edu Connect with your student’s admssions counselor go2.ou.edu/rep Follow us on Instagram, X, and Facebook for a peek into student life and resources @go2ou @oufinancialhelp Have a question?

Call us at (405) 325-2151 Text us at (405) 292-4665 Email us at admissions@ou.edu Schedule your campus visit tour.ou.edu

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo.

Printed by OU Printing Services and authorized by OU Admissions & Recruitment. 7,500 copies have been prepared at a cost of $8,925 to the taxpayers of the State of Oklahoma. Updated March 2026.