Apply as a First-Year Student
Choose Your Application
Complete and submit only one of the applications below. A $50 non-refundable fee is required.
Select “University at Buffalo (SUNY).”
Select “Buffalo, University at."
After You Apply
We will send you an email with a unique link to your Applicant Status Page, where you can monitor your application status. You are strongly encouraged to check this page regularly for updates about your application.
Fall 2026 Dates & Deadlines
| Domestic First-Year Students | ||
|---|---|---|
| Application opens | August 1 | |
| Recommended ACT test date for fall admission | September/October | |
| Recommended SAT test date for fall admission | October/November | |
| Office of Admissions begins to acknowledge receipt of fall applications | Mid-October | |
| Early Action/Priority Scholarship Consideration | November 1 | |
| Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens | October | |
| Regular Decision application completion deadline | February 1 Students can continue to submit an application for consideration until capacity is reached. | |
| UB FAFSA priority filing date | March 1 However, you should file as early as possible to be considered for the best financial aid package. | |
| Enrollment/Tuition Deposit deadline | May 1 or 10 days after acceptance, whichever is later. | |
| Housing Deposit deadline | May 15 | |
| Classes begin | August See UB Academic Calendar. | |
We take great care in reviewing each application as we look to welcome the next class of exceptional students who will enrich and shape our vibrant community.
Admission to UB is based on a holistic review of each student. We consider both academic and non-academic factors, including your high school GPA and the overall strength of your academic coursework. We’re looking to get a full picture of your accomplishments and potential, both in and out of the classroom.
Letter of Recommendation
UB strongly recommends one letter of recommendation from a school counselor, teacher, community member or employer. While only one is recommended, you may choose to submit up to three.
Supplemental Information
Documented evidence of exceptional creative talent, demonstrated leadership, community service, socio-economic environment, family unit and special life circumstances are also considered in a holistic admission process.
Early Action Option
Our Early Action option is designed for students who have identified UB as their intended college choice. The deadline for Early Action applications is November 1. Early Action plans are nonbinding; candidates will receive an early response to their application, but they do not have to commit to the university until the enrollment/tuition deposit deadline of May 1.