Overview
Hofstra University is a less selective private four-year institution in Hempstead, New York. The school accepts 69.3% of applicants and enrolls 6,155 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 69.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,280
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,190–1,370
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 29
- Total Enrollment
- 6,155
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
Hofstra operates on rolling admission, so your application gets reviewed as it arrives rather than waiting until a deadline. Submit your materials by December to get the best shot at merit scholarships and housing preferences.
Your essays should connect to specific opportunities at Hofstra that match your goals. The school's proximity to New York City creates internship pipelines you won't find elsewhere, especially for business and media students. Mention the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex if you're interested in sports management, or the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication if you want hands-on media experience with equipment used by major networks.
Hofstra's Honors College requires a separate application with additional essays, but the small class sizes and priority registration make it worth the extra effort if you qualify. The program caps at around 100 students per year and provides research opportunities typically reserved for graduate students.
Engineering applicants should highlight any hands-on project experience since Hofstra emphasizes practical application through its maker spaces and industry partnerships. The mechanical engineering program particularly benefits from the school's connections to aerospace companies on Long Island.
Campus culture revolves around being close enough to Manhattan for internships and cultural experiences while maintaining a traditional college feel. Students who do best here want both the suburban campus atmosphere and easy access to city opportunities. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life.
Your application should show how you'll take advantage of both the campus resources and the New York metropolitan area. Generic essays about wanting to study in New York won't work here. Instead, research specific professors, programs, or facilities that align with your interests. The school receives many applications from students who see it primarily as a safety option, so demonstrating genuine interest in what makes Hofstra distinct will help your application stand out.
Financial aid comes primarily through merit scholarships based on your academic profile, so there's less need for extensive need-based documentation compared to other private schools in the region.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $35,129/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $55,450
- Students Receiving Aid
- 24%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 67.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $69,039/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hofstra University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Hofstra University is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.
What is the application deadline for Hofstra University?
Hofstra University has rolling admissions with no specific deadline, but applying earlier improves your chances for housing and financial aid. The priority deadline for fall admission is typically February 15.
Does Hofstra University offer early decision or early action?
Hofstra University offers early action with a November 15 deadline. Early action is non-binding and you'll receive an admission decision by December 15.
How many transfer credits does Hofstra University accept?
Hofstra University accepts up to 64 transfer credits from community colleges and up to 68 credits from four-year institutions. You must complete at least 32 credits at Hofstra to earn your degree.