Overview
University at Albany is a less selective public four-year institution in Albany, New York. The school accepts 67.9% of applicants and enrolls 12,100 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 67.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,220
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,120–1,320
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 12,100
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
University at Albany operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall to maximize your chances and secure better housing options. Your application becomes stronger when you highlight specific connections to Albany's location in the state capital, particularly if you're interested in internships with state government, lobbying firms, or nonprofits that cluster around the Capitol building.
The Honors College requires a separate application and offers smaller class sizes, priority registration, and research opportunities with faculty. If you qualify, mention specific faculty research that aligns with your interests, especially in public policy, criminal justice, or business programs where Albany has developed strong regional connections.
Your essays should reference Albany's proximity to major cities like New York, Boston, and Montreal if travel or internship access matters to your goals. The School of Business has particularly strong accounting and information systems programs that benefit from the university's location near major employers in government and finance.
Campus culture blends commuter and residential students, creating a practical atmosphere where students focus on career preparation alongside campus involvement. You'll fit well if you want a traditional college experience without the pressure of elite competition, and if you appreciate having both outdoor recreation in the Adirondacks and urban opportunities within reach.
Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life. Many students work part-time jobs or complete internships during the semester, so time management skills matter more than perfect grades. The university draws heavily from the New York metro area and Long Island, so geographic diversity from other regions can help your application stand out.
Submit your SUNY application through the common portal and pay attention to individual program requirements. Some majors like computer science or business have higher admission standards than the university average. If you're borderline for your preferred major, consider applying to a related but less competitive program and transferring internally after your first year.
Financial aid decisions come out with admissions decisions, so you'll know your full cost quickly. The university offers merit scholarships for strong academic performance, and New York residents benefit from additional state aid programs that can significantly reduce costs.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,486/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $10,408
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $28,998
- Students Receiving Aid
- 42%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 63.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $67,979/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University at Albany require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University at Albany is test-optional, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for University at Albany?
University at Albany has a priority application deadline of December 1 for fall admission. Applications received after this date are reviewed on a rolling basis until the class is filled.
Does University at Albany offer early decision or early action?
University at Albany offers early action with a November 15 deadline. This is a non-binding option that provides an admission decision by mid-January.
How many transfer credits does University at Albany accept?
University at Albany accepts up to 90 transfer credits from four-year institutions and up to 64 credits from two-year colleges. Transfer students must complete at least 30 credits at UAlbany to earn a degree.