What is student life like at BGSU?

Students playing instruments in front of BGSU mural

At BGSU, we have created a campus culture where everyone feels included and respected.

You’ll find your place here – and your people.

The ultimate university experience

BGSU offers so many opportunities for you to connect with faculty, other students and the Bowling Green community. Our most successful students are the ones who get involved and take advantage of the resources, opportunities and support systems available to help them succeed.

300+

Student organizations

400+

Cultural events a year

18

NCAA D1 sports teams

Social life

Academic life

You may find that the education system is different here than what you’re used to.

Active learning. BGSU encourages active learning through group projects, discussions, presentations and hands-on experiences. This can be a big adjustment for international students who may be more accustomed to lecture-based learning.

Every professor teaches differently, but you may find that U.S. classrooms focus heavily on participation, individual assignments and critical thinking. You may be encouraged to ask questions, express opinions and engage in classroom discussions. 

Grading system. The grading system in the U.S. may differ from what you are used to. BGSU uses letter grades (A, B, C, etc.), with an emphasis on cumulative performance throughout the semester. Your grades on exams, assignments, projects and participation will make up your final semester grade.

If you have trouble adjusting, reach out – the sooner, the better – to your academic advisor, professor or someone in the International Programs and Partnerships office. BGSU has many support services, and they can help connect you to them.

Everyday life

BGSU students at one of campuses many shuttle stops

How do I get around campus?

It only takes about 10 or 15 minutes to walk from one side of campus to the other. Many of our students bring or rent bicycles. We also have free shuttles to take you around campus or into downtown Bowling Green. At night, you can call our free campus escort service to walk you to any destination on campus.

What’s the food like on campus?

You will not go hungry at BGSU!

  • Two dining halls with lots of food options, including vegetarian and halal
  • Convenience stores and other places to grab fast food
  • Restaurants in downtown Bowling Green  

We even have starship robots that will deliver food right to your door!

Dining on campus

BGSU students and employees at the Social House

Where will I live?

You have a variety of living options at BGSU. Undergraduate students are required to live on campus the first two years unless they meet one of the housing exemptions

On-campus residence halls. Many international students like living on campus because it gives them an opportunity to make more friends. It’s also proven that living on campus leads to greater academic success. Students who live on campus have a higher GPA. 

Take a tour of residence halls

On-campus learning communities. Students who share similar majors or interests – like the arts or healthcare – can live in learning communities within certain residence halls on campus. The Global Village Learning Community is perfect for those who share an interest in other cultures. Students who live in learning communities experience a smoother transition to university life, earn higher grades and graduate at higher rates.

Off-campus apartments and rental houses. Upperclassmen and graduate students often choose to live off campus and share rental units with friends.

BGSU branded suitcases

I was impressed with on-campus housing. Each hall features indoor games, study rooms, a kitchen, laundry facilities and a lounge area. Resident Advisors (RAs) live in the residence halls and serve as mentors and role models. They provide guidance on academic and personal issues, organize social events and help maintain a positive living environment."

"I’m glad to stay on campus. It allows me convenient access to educational resources like academic buildings, libraries and to recreational facilities – all just steps away from my residence hall. Another significant advantage of living on campus is a strong sense of community among residents. Sharing communal spaces like lounges, and kitchenettes helps me establish connections and make lifelong friendships.

– Devarapally Pranay Kumar Reddy, computer science major

Hyderabad, India

Updated: 07/03/2025 09:51AM