Ohio University, OHIO Online recognized as leaders in transfer student success

Ohio University and OHIO Online have once again earned national recognition for commitment to transfer student success, securing a place on the 2026 Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) Transfer Honor Roll.

This distinction highlights institutions that provide exceptional support and opportunities for transfer students.

“Being recognized once again by Phi Theta Kappa affirms Ohio University’s enduring commitment to expanding opportunity through higher education. As a public university, we are dedicated to creating pathways that empower transfer students to thrive academically, achieve their goals, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and professions,” said Ohio University President Lori Stewart Gonzalez. “We are proud to provide the support, resources, and sense of belonging that help students successfully transition to OHIO and complete a life-changing degree.”

Institutions selected for the honor roll were evaluated based on 40 key metrics related to the support and success of transfer students, including campus life for transfer students, admission practices, costs and aid, and bachelor’s degree completion. The Transfer Honor Roll is based on analysis from the National Student Clearinghouse and on data submitted through an institution’s profile on PTK Connect, PTK’s virtual tool that assists students in finding their colleges, career pathways and more. Colleges are given a Transfer Friendliness Rating once they complete their PTK Connect profile, and the honor roll is chosen from among the top 25 percent highest-rated colleges.

A history of transfer-friendly excellence

This marks the seventh year in a row Ohio University has been recognized, and the tenth time overall since 2016. OHIO Online has now been recognized for the fourth year in a row. This year, 275 colleges and universities made the list out of 1,117 colleges and universities that submitted information. OHIO is one of only four public universities in the state to be recognized.

“Ohio University was a pioneer in student-friendly transfer practices, and we continue to build strong pathways and partnerships with community colleges to streamline the experience,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Candace J. Boeninger. “We take pride in the work we do to honor each student’s path to OHIO – whether that is transferring to the Athens campus or completing their degree online or at a regional campus.”

Fostering online and on-campus success

OHIO offers transfer pathways that fit current college students and career professionals, accepting multiple types of transfer credit, including industry credentials and workforce training. In addition to the Athens and regional campuses, OHIO Online offers transfer students a top-tier education with the flexibility to earn a variety of certificates and degrees in a way that meets each student’s individual needs. OHIO Online is ranked among the top online colleges in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

"This recognition is about much more than transfer agreements," said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. "Successful transfer happens when institutions intentionally design policies, practices, and campus cultures that help students thrive after they arrive. These colleges have demonstrated that transfer student success is not accidental. It is a strategic priority." 

Established in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa is the oldest, largest and most prestigious honors society recognizing students pursuing two-year degrees, with nearly 1,200 chapters in 11 countries.

More than 4.5 million students have been inducted since the honors society was established, according to Phi Theta Kappa, with approximately 220,000 active members on college campuses.

All 2026 Transfer Honor Roll recipients can be viewed on PTK’s website. To learn more about transferring to OHIO, visit the Undergraduate Admissions transfer web page.

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