The Ohio State University at Lima welcomed 863 students to campus for the autumn 2026 semester, marking an 18.2% increase in total enrollment compared to last fall. The growth was largely driven by a new online associates degree, increased retention, and a larger incoming first-year class, which increased by 28.3% to 304 students. Over a two-year period, total enrollment at the Lima campus has expanded by nearly 20%.
“Seeing such a dramatic increase in enrollment proves that students want a world-class Ohio State education in their own backyard,” said Dr. Margaret Young, Ohio State Lima dean and director. “We’re proud to make higher education accessible, affordable, and directly aligned with the workforce needs of our local community."
Regional campus trends
Lima’s enrollment gains coincided with broader positive trends across Ohio State’s regional campus system, which also includes Mansfield, Marion, Newark, and ATI in Wooster. Combined enrollment across all regional locations reached 6,173 students this term, up 4.1% from autumn 2025 and 13.1% from autumn 2024. Total new first-year students across the regional system increased 6.1% year-over-year to 3,256.
Overall university figures
Across all locations, total enrollment for The Ohio State University rose to 68,183 students, a 1.4% increase over autumn 2025. The Columbus campus accounted for 62,010 total students, including 47,308 undergraduates and 8,585 new first-year students. System-wide undergraduate enrollment grew by 1.8% to 53,475 students.
With more students beginning their studies in Lima this fall, the campus continues to expand its reach and serve as an important educational access point for the region.
For details about academic programs or admission, visit lima.osu.edu.