Overview
Canisius University is a less selective private four-year institution in Buffalo, New York. The school accepts 77.7% of applicants and enrolls 1,768 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 77.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,185
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,050–1,320
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 1,768
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Submit your application through the Common Application with no application fee required. Canisius operates on rolling admissions, so you can apply anytime, but earlier submission gives you better housing options and scholarship consideration.
You'll need your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and either SAT or ACT scores. The admissions office also accepts self-reported test scores, which speeds up the process. Your guidance counselor can submit transcripts electronically through Parchment or other transcript services.
While most programs admit students easily, nursing requires separate application materials and has limited spots. The nursing program fills quickly, so apply early if you're interested. Business programs like accounting and finance have no additional requirements beyond standard admission.
Housing deposits are due soon after acceptance if you want guaranteed on-campus housing. First-year students must live on campus unless they're commuting from home within 30 miles. The residence halls fill up fast, particularly the newer Griffin Commons.
Canisius offers merit scholarships automatically based on your academic credentials, with awards ranging from partial to substantial tuition coverage. You don't need separate scholarship applications for most awards. Financial aid packages typically come within weeks of acceptance.
The campus sits in a residential Buffalo neighborhood, not downtown, so having a car helps for off-campus activities and internships. The school runs shuttles to local shopping and the subway system connects you to downtown Buffalo and nearby areas.
Orientation happens in summer with multiple session dates. You'll register for fall classes during orientation, and academic advisors help plan your four-year course sequence. Computer science and business students often double major or add minors since the curriculum allows flexibility.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,322/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $32,720
- Students Receiving Aid
- 27%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 70.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $60,681/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 80.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Canisius University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Canisius University is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Students may still submit test scores if they feel the scores strengthen their application.
What is the application deadline for Canisius University?
Canisius University has rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best consideration for merit scholarships and housing.
Does Canisius University offer early decision or early action?
Canisius University offers early action with a December 1 deadline. Early action is non-binding and allows students to receive an admission decision earlier in the process.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Canisius University?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credits to Canisius University. Students must complete at least 30 credits at Canisius to earn their degree.