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41.8%Acceptance
$10,363Tuition
14,401Students
84%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$80,596Earnings
#5 in New YorkPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Binghamton University is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Vestal, New York. The school accepts 41.8% of applicants and enrolls 14,401 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
41.8%
Average SAT
1,425
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,340–1,510
ACT Composite (avg)
32
Total Enrollment
14,401

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,510

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,340–1,510

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,340

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Binghamton operates as the flagship SUNY campus with a rolling admissions process that begins accepting applications in early September and continues through late spring. Submit your application early in the fall for the strongest consideration, as spots fill throughout the year and scholarship opportunities decrease over time.

Your essay should connect directly to specific programs that align with your career goals. The School of Management offers a strong business program with direct admission pathways into competitive majors like accounting and finance. The Watson School of Engineering provides excellent placement into technology careers, particularly through its computer science and electrical engineering departments. The Decker College of Nursing maintains strong clinical partnerships throughout New York State.

Apply to the Honors College through a separate application that includes additional short essays about leadership and academic interests. This program provides research opportunities, smaller class sizes, and priority registration that can significantly improve your undergraduate experience.

Campus culture centers around academic achievement balanced with active social life. The student body tends to be career-focused and grade-conscious, coming primarily from New York suburbs with strong preparation in mathematics and science. Greek life exists but does not dominate social activities. Students appreciate the combination of state school affordability with academic quality that rivals private institutions.

Your application should emphasize sustained achievement in challenging coursework rather than an extensive list of activities. Binghamton admissions committees focus heavily on course rigor and grade trends, particularly in mathematics and science for engineering applicants. Include specific examples of academic projects or research experiences that demonstrate your readiness for college-level work.

Visit campus during the academic year to experience the genuine atmosphere rather than polished admissions events. The Vestal location offers a traditional college town feel with easy access to outdoor recreation in the Finger Lakes region. Students who succeed here balance serious academic work with taking advantage of the natural setting for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Complete the FAFSA early since financial aid operates on a first-come basis for New York residents. In-state students receive significant value through the combination of reasonable tuition costs and strong career placement rates.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$21,364/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$10,363
Tuition (out-of-state)
$29,453
Students Receiving Aid
27%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
83.6%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,596/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
88.5%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Binghamton University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Binghamton University is test-optional for most applicants. You can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of your application.

What is the application deadline for Binghamton University?

The regular decision deadline is January 15. Binghamton also offers early action with a November 1 deadline.

Can you transfer to Binghamton University from a community college?

Yes, Binghamton accepts transfer students from community colleges and four-year institutions. Transfer applicants need at least 24 college credits to be considered for admission.

What are the most competitive majors at Binghamton University?

Computer science and engineering programs are among the most selective at Binghamton. The nursing program also has limited spots and requires separate application materials.