College of the Ozarks

College of the Ozarks is a private Christian liberal arts college founded in 1906 in Point Lookout, Missouri, near Branson. Known as “Hard Work U,” the College of the Ozarks provides tuition-free education to every student who qualifies financially — in exchange, each student works 15 hours per week and two 40-hour weeks per year in one of 80+ campus industries (farm, mill, fire station, restaurant, hotel, and more). Students graduate debt-free. The college accepts only ~10% of applicants.

Distinctive Features

• Tuition-Free Education — Every qualifying student attends tuition-free in exchange for campus work
• Work Education Program — Students work 15 hrs/week in 80+ campus industries; learn practical skills
• Character Education — Christian values, patriotism, and work ethic at the center of the mission
• Agriculture and Culinary — Working farm, mill, restaurant (Dobyns Dining Room), and hotel on campus

How to Apply

• Must demonstrate financial need | Acceptance Rate: ~10% | Tuition: ~$600 (fees only)