Group Visit Program | Visit The Ohio State University

We recommend you submit your visit request at least four weeks in advance.

Columbus campus Group Visit Program for grades 9–12

We’re excited to welcome your students to Ohio State and help them explore the possibilities of higher education! Whether they’re just beginning to think about college or already imagining life as a Buckeye, our group visit options are designed to introduce them to the opportunities, resources and community that make Ohio State unique.

Questions? Check out our FAQs.

Visit options for your group

Guided group visit (offered on select dates)

Our guided group visit provides a structured introduction to Ohio State, beginning with a 30-minute Admissions Overview led by an admissions counselor, followed by a 60-minute campus tour led by trained student ambassadors.

Key details:

Total scheduled time: approximately 2 hours
Group size: 15–55 participants
Arrival time: 10 a.m.

Self-guided group visit (available most days)

This option offers a flexible introduction to Ohio State, including a 40-minute Admissions Overview, a 15-minute Q&A with a current Buckeye and a self-guided campus tour using provided materials.

Key details:

Total scheduled time: approximately 1 hour, with optional additional exploration time
Group size: 15–150 participants
Arrival time: 10 a.m.

Which visit is right for my group?

Choose a guided visit if your group would benefit from a structured, staff-led experience, direct interaction with student ambassadors and a curated walking route
Choose a self-guided visit if your group prefers flexibility, independent exploration or a date when guided visits are unavailable

Group eligibility

To request a group visit, your organization must:

Represent a high school or community-based organization
Bring students in grades 9–12
Provide 15–150 participants (Guided: 15–55; Self-Guided: 15–150)
Provide one chaperone per 15 students (minimum two chaperones; all must be at least 21 years old)

Requesting a visit

Here’s what you need to know to request a visit:

Use the Columbus group tour calendar to view available dates and submit a request to register
Guided group visits appear only on select dates
Self-guided visits are available more broadly

All start times are fixed and cannot be adjusted. You will receive a confirmation within 3–5 business days.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a guided and self-guided group visit?

Guided visits include an admissions overview and staff-led campus tour. Self-guided visits include an admissions overview, student Q&A and self-paced walking tour.

When are guided group visits offered?

Guided visits are offered only on select dates throughout the semester.

Can I request a guided visit on a date not listed?

No. Guided visits are offered only on pre-scheduled dates.

How many students can we bring?

Guided visits: 15–55 participants.
Self-guided visits: 15–150 participants.

Are start times flexible?

No. All group visit start times are fixed at 10 a.m.

What happens if my group arrives late?

Visit components may be shortened. Groups arriving more than 30 minutes late may have their visit cancelled.

What happens if my group does not show up?

The visit will be cancelled and future scheduling may be affected.

Can we eat on campus during our visit?

Groups may explore campus dining before or after their visit.

What accessibility accommodations are available?

Share accessibility needs during the request process.

Where do we park?

Parking instructions will be included in the confirmation email.

What happens in bad weather?

Guided tours operate in most weather conditions unless severe weather requires adjustments.

Can we combine a guided and self-guided experience?

No. Groups must choose one visit type.

Can we customize our visit?

Not at this time. Visits follow a standard format.

How do we request a visit?

Use the registration form and await confirmation within 3–5 business days.

Have questions?

Please email grouptours@osu.edu.