
900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, NY 13244, USA


Syracuse University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the university meets rigorous standards for quality in academics, faculty qualifications, and institutional effectiveness. Prospective students can be confident that the educational programs offered have undergone thorough evaluation and continuous improvement efforts to maintain high standards.
Additionally, several individual schools and programs within Syracuse University have received specialized accreditation from relevant professional organizations. These accreditations indicate that specific departments meet the disciplinary standards required for fields such as business, architecture, social work, and public communications, among others. Such endorsements are particularly significant for students aiming for credentials recognized by future employers or professional licensing bodies.
Choosing a university with robust accreditation is vital for credit transferability, graduate school admission, and qualification for federal financial aid. Syracuse University's accreditation status reflects a commitment to academic integrity and institutional accountability, providing assurance to students about the value of their degree.
Admission to Syracuse University demands a thorough academic preparation including a completed college preparatory program along with a strong secondary school record. Prospective students must present their secondary school GPA and provide letters of recommendation. Competencies in various areas are also required as part of the application process. The university does not operate an open admission policy, meaning candidates need to meet these established standards for consideration.
Applicants are required to submit TOEFL scores if applicable, affirming proficiency in English for non-native speakers. While specific admission test scores such as the SAT or ACT are not explicitly mandated, the data indicates that admitted students typically present high standardized test performance. The mean SAT score for enrolled students is 1310, placing them in the top 15 percent nationally, with average subscores of 660 in Math and 650 in Writing. The mean ACT composite score is 30, ranking in the top 10 percent.
The application volume is notably high, with over 42,000 applicants, reflecting a very competitive admission landscape. Approximately 42 percent of all applicants gain acceptance, indicating a selective process. The university awards credit for prior learning demonstrated through AP credits and credit for college coursework. However, dual credit and open admission policies do not apply.
While a computer is not strictly required for students, computer leasing options are available. This may support students who need access to computing resources during their studies at Syracuse University.
Syracuse University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee. The standard fee for submitting an application is $75. This fee helps cover the administrative costs involved in processing each application.
Fee waivers are available for eligible students who demonstrate financial need. Applicants can request a waiver through the Common Application or Coalition Application platforms when applying to Syracuse University. Additionally, students who participate in specific outreach programs or meet certain criteria may also qualify for an application fee waiver.
The university encourages prospective students to review the eligibility requirements for fee waivers early in the application process to ensure timely submission. This support aims to reduce financial barriers for applicants from underrepresented or low-income backgrounds.
Syracuse University hosts a Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch unit on its campus. This provides students the opportunity to pursue military leadership training alongside their academic studies. The presence of an ROTC unit on campus allows prospective students interested in military service to participate directly in ROTC activities without needing to commute to a different institution.
Syracuse University welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring terms, providing opportunities to continue their education without delay. The institution maintains a very difficult admission policy, reflecting a competitive selection process. Prospective transfers should be aware that the university accepts credits from other accredited institutions, facilitating the transfer of previously earned coursework.
Additionally, Syracuse University accepts credits earned through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject exams and recognizes the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) credits, which may assist students in reducing the number of courses they need to complete. Transfer applicants are also required to submit recommendations as part of their application, adding an evaluative component beyond academic records.
Syracuse University provides a diverse array of study abroad programs designed to accommodate different academic interests and durations. Students can participate in semester-long or year-long programs at partner universities worldwide, allowing them to immerse themselves in another culture while earning credits applicable to their degree. Additionally, there are shorter, faculty-led summer and winter session study abroad options, which offer focused learning experiences over a few weeks.
The university emphasizes programs that integrate academic coursework with cultural engagement, ensuring students gain both knowledge and global perspective. Opportunities span numerous regions, including Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, with program offerings tailored to a variety of disciplines. Syracuse University also supports internships abroad, which combine practical work experience with international exposure.
Specific programs include exchange partnerships where students take classes alongside local students, and faculty-led travel seminars that explore specialized topics through travel and study. These options cater to students who prefer structured academic environments as well as those who seek experiential learning outside the classroom.
Median composite SAT score
1310Median composite ACT score
30Percent of students submitting ACT scores
9%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
22%Computer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
Data not availableOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
HardGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring