Buckeye Student Leadership Academy

What is BSLA?

BSLA is a special program for high-achieving and rising seniors who are either first-generation college students or who attend urban and rural high schools in Ohio. Over the course of a one-day kickoff conference on Ohio State's Columbus campus and bi-weekly virtual sessions, prospective students learn more about themselves, leadership, the college experience and resources to support their success.

2026 Program Dates

All virtual programs will run on Wednesdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

  • July 29: Virtual program
  • August 12: Virtual program
  • August 26: Virtual program
  • September 9: Virtual program
  • September 16: Virtual program
  • September 23: Virtual program
  • October 3: Buckeye Preview (on campus)
  • October 6, 7 and 8: Office hours 4 to 6 p.m.
  • October 14: Virtual program
  • October 28: Virtual program
  • November 4: Virtual program
  • November 18: Virtual program

Additional program information

What we'll cover

  • Learning and motivation strategies for college success
  • Student leadership development
  • College finances and financial aid
  • Ohio State's admissions process
  • Morrill Scholarship Program
  • Honors and Scholars Programs

More exciting opportunities

At BSLA, you'll get to:

  • Build community with other students
  • Explore Ohio State's campus
  • Get help on your college admissions essay
  • Hear from current Ohio State students
  • Chat with reps from our academic colleges

Questions?

Contact us at bsla@osu.edu for more information.

Pillars of Buckeye Student Leadership Academy

Part of Undergraduate Admissions, BSLA is based on three major pillars which accelerate academic excellence:

  1. College search: BSLA empowers students to explore higher education with confidence.
  2. Academic life: Students dive into the realities of college-level academics, discovering strategies for success in rigorous coursework.
  3. Student experience: From leadership opportunities to campus involvement, students learn how to build community, find their voice and make the most of their college journey.

Phases of BSLA

Phase 1: Program sessions

July 2026–November 2026

Phase 2: Post-sessions engagement

November 2026–May 2027

Phase 3: Transition and new student orientation

May 2027–August 2027