
12 Capen Hall, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA


University at Buffalo holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a recognized regional accrediting body that ensures the institution meets rigorous academic and administrative standards. This accreditation affirms that the university maintains quality in its educational offerings and institutional effectiveness, which is crucial for prospective students when assessing the legitimacy and recognition of their chosen school.
Additionally, some professional programs within University at Buffalo have earned specialized accreditations pertinent to their fields. These accreditations verify that individual departments meet industry-specific standards, which can be vital for students seeking careers that require licensure or certification. Prospective students are encouraged to review accreditation status for their desired programs to ensure alignment with professional requirements.
Admission to University at Buffalo requires completion of a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED). Applicants must provide their secondary school academic records and maintain a minimum grade point average. Although specific admission test scores are not mandated, the university requires a satisfactory TOEFL score for non-native English speakers, with additional standardized tests recommended but not compulsory.
University at Buffalo does not offer an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit or college credits from prior study; however, Advanced Placement credits are recognized. A computer is not required for application, nor is there a computer lease option linked to enrollment.
The university attracts a very high volume of applicants, with over 38,000 candidates vying for admission annually. Of these, about 69% are accepted, indicating a moderately selective process. Enrolled students typically demonstrate strong academic achievement, reflected in an average SAT score of 1270, positioning them in the top 25 percentile nationally. The average SAT Math and Writing scores stand at 650 and 620 respectively, both ranking in the top 30 percentile or better. ACT scores for enrolled students average 28, which also places them in the top 25 percentile. These metrics highlight a competitive academic standard for those admitted.
The University at Buffalo requires an application fee for prospective students submitting their applications. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications.
Applicants who face financial hardships may be eligible for fee waivers. These waivers are intended to reduce barriers for students who might otherwise struggle to afford the application cost. To apply for a fee waiver, students typically need to provide documentation demonstrating financial need or participation in certain programs that qualify them for assistance.
It is recommended that prospective students review the university's official application guidelines or contact the admissions office directly to confirm the current fee amount and the specific criteria or process for requesting a waiver.
The University at Buffalo offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs through a system in which students participate either in an on-campus ROTC branch unit or through a cooperating host institution. This structure enables students to engage in military training and leadership development while pursuing their academic studies at the university. The availability of an on-campus branch unit provides direct access to ROTC activities, while the option to affiliate with a cooperating host institution allows additional flexibility for students seeking ROTC involvement.
University at Buffalo allows transfer students to apply for admission during the fall and spring semesters, while information about transfer possibilities in winter and summer terms is not available. The university accepts transfer credits, including those earned through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) for both subject-specific and general exams, as well as credits from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program.
Recommendations are considered as part of the transfer application process, which may enhance a candidate's admission prospects. Prospective transfer students should prepare documentation that aligns with these accepted credit policies to ensure a smoother evaluation of prior coursework.
The University at Buffalo offers a diverse range of study abroad programs designed to accommodate varying academic interests and durations. Students can participate in semester-long exchanges or faculty-led short-term programs, providing options suited to those seeking immersive cultural experiences as well as those balancing tighter schedules.
These programs encompass many global destinations, partnering with universities and institutions around the world. Participants benefit from structured coursework aligned with their degree requirements, ensuring that credits earned abroad contribute effectively toward graduation.
The university encourages students to explore international opportunities that broaden their academic perspectives and enhance cross-cultural competencies. Support services such as advising, pre-departure orientations, and assistance with housing and visas are integral parts of the study abroad experience, helping students navigate challenges and maximize their time overseas.
In addition to traditional study abroad options, specialized programs focus on research, internships, or service learning in international contexts, catering to students who wish to gain practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
Median composite SAT score
1270Median composite ACT score
28Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2.6%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
28%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent 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
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring