
PO Box 17, Point Lookout, MO 65726, USA


College of the Ozarks holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which authorizes it to confer associate and bachelor's degrees. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets established standards in areas such as academic quality, institutional effectiveness, and student support services. Additionally, specific academic programs within the college may have received specialized accreditation or recognition, further validating their quality and rigor.
Admission to College of the Ozarks requires completion of a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma, along with a record of secondary school performance. Prospective students must submit high school transcripts and provide recommendations as part of their application. While competencies are suggested, they are not mandatory. The college mandates submission of admission test scores, with the ACT being the predominant exam, as 90% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores. The SAT is less commonly submitted, representing about 10% of test scores. Additionally, standardized tests such as TOEFL and other assessments are recommended but not required.
The college follows a selective admission process and does not have an open admission policy. Its mission prioritizes serving students from the Ozarks region, including parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Kansas. Dual credit or college credit policies for incoming students are not available, but the institution does accept Advanced Placement (AP) credits.
Academic performance expectations are reflected in average standardized test scores reported for enrolled students, with a mean SAT composite score of 1112, composed of an average 540 in math and 572 in writing. The average ACT score is 23, placing admitted students around the 36th percentile nationally. The college maintains a very low acceptance rate of approximately 15%, indicating a competitive admissions landscape.
College of the Ozarks requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of the admissions process. However, the institution offers application fee waivers to qualifying applicants, helping to reduce financial barriers for those who demonstrate need or meet specific criteria. These waivers are intended to make the application process more accessible, allowing a broader range of students the opportunity to apply without the added cost of the fee. Applicants are encouraged to check the college's admissions office for detailed information on eligibility and the process for obtaining a fee waiver.
College of the Ozarks hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with opportunities to participate in military training and leadership development directly through the institution. This on-site presence allows students interested in pursuing a military career or leadership experience to engage in ROTC programs without needing to commute to another college or university.
College of the Ozarks welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring terms, offering flexibility for those seeking to continue their education there. The institution accepts transfer credits, including both CLEP subject and CLEP general exams, which can facilitate the transition for students with prior college coursework. While the college has a moderately difficult admissions process, prospective transfer students should note that letters of recommendation are considered during evaluation.
College of the Ozarks offers study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experiences. These programs encompass a variety of short-term trips and semester-long exchanges, allowing participants to immerse themselves in different cultural and educational environments. The college emphasizes integrating service-learning components and hands-on experiences within many of its international programs, aligning with its commitment to practical education.
The available programs often focus on areas such as international business, language acquisition, and global social issues. Students have the chance to travel to several countries, engaging with local communities and institutions to broaden their academic and cultural understanding. The structure of study abroad at the institution encourages involvement beyond traditional classroom settings, fostering personal growth and cross-cultural competence.
Participation in these programs requires students to meet certain academic standards and receive approval from relevant college offices. The programs are typically coordinated to fit within the academic calendar, enabling students to continue their degree progress without significant delays. Overall, the study abroad options at College of the Ozarks provide experiential learning opportunities that complement the college's emphasis on workforce readiness and global awareness.
Median composite SAT score
1112Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
90%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
10%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RequiredTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RecommendedOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedPreferential admissions consideration text
The mission of the college focuses on serving students from the Ozarks region in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Illinois, and KansasOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring