Kent State University: Field of Study, Cost, and Scholarships

1.1. Where is Kent State University located?

Kent State University is a public research university founded in 1910, located in the city of Kent, in the Northeast region of Ohio, United States. From the main campus, you can easily travel by car to nearby cities such as Cleveland, Akron, Youngstown, and Canton.

The city of Kent offers the typical study space of an American college city, with four distinct seasons and a more adaptable pace of life than larger cities. This is the right choice for those who want to experience a vibrant university environment but don't necessarily live in the middle of a crowded city center. Ohio uses the Eastern Time zone, which is about 11–12 hours behind Vietnam depending on the time of year.

1.2. Achievements and rankings of Kent State University

Kent State has made its mark on many prestigious rankings and evaluation systems in the US, especially in research capacity and some intensive training disciplines:

• Top 100 National Public Universities:

  Ranked #128 among the top public universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report 2027)

• Carnegie R1 Classification: Among the 187 Very High Research Activity universities in the United States, and 1 of 7 universities in Ohio to achieve this classification.

• Top 31 Global Library & Information Science: The ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS 2026) recognizes Kent State's Library & Information Science as

  ranked #31 in the world.

• #18 Best Graduate Rehabilitation Counseling: Ranked #18 in the nation

  (U.S. News & World Report 2025/2026).

• #115 in Nursing and #143 in Psychology according to U.S. News & World Report 2027.

• AACSB Accredited: Ambassador Crawford Business School is AACSB accredited – the gold standard for only the top 5% of business schools globally.

Kent State University has an extensive academic network with 8 campuses and 5 training locations in Ohio. In addition, the university expands its international experience through a fashion training facility in New York City, programs in Geneva, Florence, Paris and Curitiba, and an international office system in other countries.

2.1. Kent Campus: Main Campus

The Kent Campus is Kent State University's main campus, which is home to the majority of its academic programs, research, and student services. Covering an area of approximately 950 acres, the campus has 131 buildings, a 12-story library, a sports center, a theater, a fashion museum, and a system of residence halls with many facilities.

Kent Campus is particularly suitable for international students who wish:

• Access to a wide selection of majors on the same campus

• Participate in research with faculty

• Use of specialized laboratories and learning facilities

• Experience boarding life and vibrant student activities

• Expanding academic networking and networking within the large-scale university community

2.2. Regional Campuses

In addition to the Kent Campus, Kent State University has 7 regional campuses spread across Northeast Ohio: Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem, Stark, Trumbull and Tuscarawas.

This system offers more flexible and cost-effective study options, especially for students who want to start at a regional campus before transferring to the Kent Campus or continuing to complete a program at a suitable campus.

2.3. International Study Locations and Programs

Not only limited to Ohio, Kent State also expands the learning experience to many international destinations with campuses in Florence (Italy), Geneva (Switzerland), Paris (France), Curitiba (Brazil) and a fashion studio in the Garment District, New York. The university also has representative offices in Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City. Ho Chi Minh City, Kigali and New Delhi.

Thanks to this network, you can access more than 200 international study opportunities, from semester-based exchange programs to short-term courses and experiences abroad.

3.1. Training scale and diversity of disciplines

Kent State offers more than 375 programs at a variety of levels, from certificates, Bachelor's to Master's and PhD. The broad portfolio of majors gives you a wide range of options to explore new fields, dual major, or adjust to study without necessarily transferring.

This point is especially useful if you're confused between two disciplines that are close to each other. Instead of just looking at the name of the program, take a close look at the required coursework, in-depth direction, and assessment to see if the major is really a good fit for your interests, competencies, and career goals.

3.2. Research strengths associated with advanced technology and application

As a Carnegie R1 university for research, Kent State invests heavily in facilities and specialized centers, allowing students to access research and technology during their studies. Some of the outstanding facilities include:

• Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute (AMLCI): A

  leading research center for liquid crystals and advanced materials, with many important contributions to the field of display technology.

• FedEx Aeronautics Academic Center:

  An aviation training center with flight simulation systems, dedicated classrooms, and technology for hands-on training.

• Fashion Museum & Tech Labs:

  Supports learning and research in the fields of fashion, textiles, digital design, and production technology.

Kent State's strength lies not only in the scale of its research, but also in its ability to bring students closer to labs, real-world projects, and specialized learning environments right from the undergraduate level.

3.3. Supportive learning environment for international students

Kent State has International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), which supports students throughout their studies in the United States, from the early stages of admission to issues related to visa status and work opportunities.

International students can learn about and receive guidance on:

• F-1 visa procedures and maintaining international student status

• New Student Orientation Program

• Regulations on CPT (internship in the curriculum) and OPT (post-graduation work)

• Procedures related to records and length of stay

• Resources for international students throughout their studies

Thanks to this dedicated support system, students have more fulcrum to get used to the new environment, handle the necessary procedures and be more proactive in their study and career plans in the US.

3.4. Internship and career development opportunities after graduation

Kent State has the advantage of being located in Ohio, an area where many large businesses and research institutions are concentrated. Students have access to internship opportunities, real-world projects, and career connections with names such as FedEx, Goodyear, Sherwin-Williams, Progressive Insurance, and NASA Glenn Research Center.

Thanks to business networks and career support activities, students have more opportunities to gain experience early, expand their professional networks and better prepare for the labor market after graduation. According to data released by the university, more than 92% of students are employed or continue their education after graduation.

4.1. Levels and training programs

Kent State University offers a wide range of academic pathways, from Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. to professional certificate programs, tailored to a variety of academic goals and career orientations.

For international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements, Kent State also offers ESL English programs to help improve their language proficiency before entering the main course. In some pathways, students can both improve their English and gradually accumulate college credits, thereby shortening the transition and getting acquainted with the learning environment at the university earlier.

4.2. Notable Majors at Kent State

• Aeronautics:

  Kent State has a large-scale aviation training system with more than 30 trainer aircraft and its own commercial airport. Students can pursue directions such as professional piloting, aviation management, and flight operations, combining theory, simulation, and hands-on experience.

• Fashion Design & Merchandising:

  Top 10 best fashion shows in the United States, with a network of direct connections to the fashion industry in New York, Florence, and Paris.

• Economics & Business Administration (AACSB Accredited):

  Intensive training in Finance, Accounting, Business Analytics and Business Administration with high practical applicability.

• Computer Science & Information Technology (STEM):

  Computer Science, Data Science, and Cybersecurity majors are designed according to STEM standards, allowing international students to stay in the U.S. for up to 36 months under the OPT program.

• Health, Nursing and Health Sciences:The College of Nursing is one of the largest medical training centers in the region with a pass rate that consistently exceeds the national average.

• Library & Information Science: Ranked #31 in the world by ShanghaiRanking 2026, the program focuses on areas such as information management, data, digital storage, and information systems.

• Rehabilitation Counseling: Ranked #18 in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, focusing on psychotherapy and community support.

5.1. Academic requirements for each level of study

Requirements to study in the U.S . at Kent State University depend on the level of study and program. In general, international students need to meet the following academic requirements:

• Undergraduate: Graduated from high school with a minimum GPA of about 2.5/4.0. Most programs apply a policy that does not require SAT/ACT.

• Graduate: Graduate with a minimum GPA of about 2.75/4.0, not the default 3.0 for all programs. Each major may have higher requirements and additional requirements.

5.2. How much does Kent State University require IELTS

At undergraduate level, Kent State University requires a minimum IELTS Academic (IELTS Academic) of 6.0. If you don't use IELTS, you can meet the English language requirements with a number of other certificates or pathways, including:

• TOEFL iBT: minimum 71

• Duolingo English Test: minimum 100

• PTE Academic: 48 minimum

• SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: minimum 510

• ELS Intensive English Program: complete Level 112

For postgraduate studies, English language requirements vary by program. If you are studying for a Master's or PhD, you need to check the industry-specific requirements before applying.

The cost of studying abroad at Kent State University includes not only tuition fees but also many items to be planned throughout the academic year, such as fees, housing, meals, insurance, books and study materials, travel and personal expenses. Some of these are mandatory expenses according to the university's regulations, while living expenses will vary depending on the student's program of study, accommodation choice, and spending habits. Therefore, when budgeting, you should look at the total cost by year instead of just comparing tuition fees.

6.1. Tuition Fees for International Students

Kent State University tuition fees vary by level, number of credits, and program. Below are the estimates for the 2026–2027 academic year, calculated in two semesters.

Source: Kent State University, International Student Aid & Tuition (2026–2027 academic year).

6.2. Cost of Living in Kent, Ohio

Kent State applies $14,360 per year for living expenses for the 2026–2027 academic year. In addition, the university estimates an additional $3,935 per year for health insurance, books and school supplies.

This is an estimate used for financial planning, not a fixed cost for every student. Actual costs may be higher if you choose a private room, higher meal plans, frequent travel, or incur additional personal and medical expenses.

6.3. Total estimated cost for an academic year (Academic year 2026 - 2027)

To get a clear picture of the budget to be prepared, here is an estimated cost at Kent State University for the 2026–2027 academic year, before deducting scholarships or financial aid.

To estimate the cost of studying at Kent State University close to your family's financial plan, you should calculate it on your actual total budget, rather than just looking at the listed tuition fees. You can refer to the calculation formula below:

Budget to be prepared = Program costs + Living expenses incurred + Travel, procedures and contingencies − Scholarship confirmed

This calculation helps families better visualize the actual amount of money they need to prepare for the entire learning journey, while avoiding missing out on items other than tuition fees.

Undergraduate international students who are admitted to the Kent Campus will be automatically considered for the Global Scholarship upon receipt of an offer of admission. The scholarship is available to F-1 students, including first-year applicants and transfer students, but is not available to graduate students or students who have already begun enrollment at the university.

The Global Scholarship can be extended throughout your studies if you continue to meet the university's requirements. For first-year students, the scholarship can be applied for up to 8 semesters; for transfer students, the duration of the scholarship will depend on the number of credits recognized.

How to prepare to increase your scholarship chances?

• Submit your application early:

  Prioritize completing your application early to have enough time to process admission and not miss the scholarship milestones of each admission period.

• Maintain a good GPA:

  The Global Scholarship is heavily based on GPA. The higher the GPA, the greater the value of the scholarship; according to the current scale, a GPA of 3.7/4.0 or higher can access a higher level of scholarship, while students admitted to the Honors College can receive additional support.

• Prepare complete academic records:

  Transcripts, English certificates, and admission documents should be completed early so that the admission process goes smoothly.

• Personal Statement:

  Clearly demonstrate academic goals, leadership potential, and orientation to contribute to the Kent State student community.

• Check out other scholarships:

  In addition to the Global Scholarship, some departments or programs may have their own scholarships with different criteria. In this case, a personal statement, extracurricular achievements, or leadership experience can become a plus if the scholarship requires it.

Studying in the US is a long-term plan that needs to be carefully prepared from choosing a major, choosing a school, estimating a budget to completing documents and visas. Starting early will help you have more time to strengthen your profile, find suitable scholarships and be more proactive in each step of application.

With more than 57 years of experience in the field of international education, IDP accompanies Vietnamese students throughout their journey to study in the US, from initial orientation to ready to go. To find out more information about studying in the US, you can refer to IDP's website or contact us to receive a list of free US scholarships.

Besides, you can join the Study Abroad Exhibitions organized by IDP to beMeet and answer questions directly from school representatives, learn about the process Prepare your study abroad application, discover all information about schools and majors that attract human resources and bring high demand for settlement as well as job opportunities after graduation.