YOUR ROLE MATTERS.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP.
This is an exciting time for your student, and your role is essential. Whether you're a parent helping your student take the next step or a counselor supporting many through the process, we're here to help. Use this site as your go-to resource for information and guidance on admission to the University at Buffalo.
We know the college search comes with a lot of questions. We invite you to learn more about UB, what makes us a top choice for academic excellence and value, and how your student can find a strong sense of purpose and belonging here.
On this Page:
What we’re looking for
Admission to UB is based on a holistic review process, which means our counselors carefully consider every part of a student’s application when making a decision.
Academic performance is important, but we know that UB students are more than just grades and test scores. As your student prepares to apply, encourage them to highlight the experiences that help shape who they are, such as community involvement, leadership, creative pursuits and volunteer work.
How to apply
UB attracts students who are driven to go further—with their education, their goals and their future. Whether your student is coming from across the state or around the world, they’ll find the opportunities and support they need to grow and succeed.
UB is Test Optional
UB supports SUNY’s decision to make the submission of SAT and ACT test scores optional for undergraduate admissions consideration. Students can share their scores as part of their application if they choose by selecting this option on their application. Every application is reviewed holistically, regardless of testing.
The value of a UB degree
“How will we manage college costs?” If this question is on your mind, you’re not alone. The cost of college is significant. We encourage you to see it as an investment, and UB is a smart one.
One of the best things about UB is that, as a public institution, we offer an excellent education at a fraction of the cost of private colleges and universities of equal prominence. UB is consistently recognized by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance as a Best College Value for our high graduation rate, low average student debt and abundant institutional aid. In fact, UB offers the most valuable merit scholarships in the SUNY system.
Our expert financial aid advisors can help illuminate any questions you may have about the cost of a UB education. We encourage you to contact UB’s at any time during the admissions process.
How we support students
Your student’s success should always be at the focus of their college experience. At UB, it will be.
is UB’s highest priority. Our police department is staffed by highly trained police officers, and it is accredited at both the state and national level. UBPD's dispatch center is professionally staffed 24/7/365 to ensure emergency resources are readily available and expedited, and the campus-wide Blue Light Phone system provides a direct connection to police dispatchers, providing them with the exact location and security camera view of the caller. Students are encouraged to to check in with family and friends, receive emergency safety notices and more.
UB Seminar is the entryway to your student’s education. Every student takes the UB Seminar in their first semester. Small in size and centered around critical thinking, ethical reasoning and reflective discussion, the UB Seminar is an opportunity to connect with distinguished faculty early on and will prepare your student to meet and manage the rigorous academic demands of college.
Tutoring is available to students in the residence halls, online, and in designated locations around campus. The best part? It’s free! Visit Tutoring & Academic Support Services for more information about tutoring at UB.
Health and wellness is closely tied to your student's academic success. At UB, we prioritize health promotion, emotional and mental support, and high-quality medical services to help build a healthy, thriving campus community.
Finish in 4 is our commitment to your student’s graduation. They will receive the resources and support they need to graduate in four years, minimizing the costs and fees associated with extra semesters.
Fall admission dates and 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. | |
| Transfer Students (Domestic Only) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Application opens | August 1 | |
| Priority Scholarship Consideration | March 15 | |
| Regular Decision application completion deadline | May 1 Students can continue to submit an application for consideration until capacity is reached. | |
| Housing Deposit deadline | May 15 | |
| Classes begin | August See UB Academic Calendar | |
| International Students (First-Year and Transfer) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Ìý | Application opens | August 1 |
| Ìý | Early Action | November 1 |
| Ìý | Regular Decision application completion deadline | February 1 Students can continue to submit an application for consideration until capacity is reached. |
| Ìý | Honors College consideration | December 1 |
| Ìý | Enrollment/Tuition Deposit deadline | May 1 or 10 days after acceptance, whichever is later. |
| Ìý | Housing Deposit deadline | May 15 |
| Ìý | Classes begin | August See UB Academic Calendar |
UB Codes
SAT code = 2925
ACT code = 2978
TAP/state school code = 1010
FAFSA school code = 002837
May 27 - Aug. 15, 2025
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Additional resources for supporters
Parents and high school counselors play a critical role in the college admissions and decision process. We look forward to working with you to support your students and share all of the opportunities that await them at UB. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Resources for parents
Resources for high school counselors
College Exploration Day
August 8, 2025
Join us on Friday, August 8 for College Exploration Day! This event offers students and families the opportunity to visit and explore UB over summer break. While you're here, you can tour campus, try our award-winning dining options and learn about admissions, financial aid and college majors—UB has over 150 to choose from. Discover what life is like at UB, a top 40 public university, a Best Value School and New York's flagship. Register today!