Suny Buffalo State University

SUNY Buffalo State University admits 75.9% of applicants, meaning roughly 3 in 4 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Buffalo State in the Open Access category, with admission rates above 75%.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates Buffalo State is somewhat more selective than typical institutions in its comparison group, though still maintaining broad accessibility. This level of selectivity means that most academically prepared students can expect admission, particularly those meeting basic eligibility requirements.

The relatively open admission approach aligns with Buffalo State's mission to serve diverse student populations, including first-generation and lower-income students who may benefit from accessible higher education opportunities. Students should view Buffalo State as an accessible option while still maintaining reasonable academic preparation.

The admission rate suggests that students with solid academic records can expect favorable admission outcomes, making this institution suitable for students seeking a safety school or those prioritizing access over extreme selectivity. For most applicants, the focus should be on demonstrating readiness for college-level work rather than competing against highly selective admission standards.

SUNY Buffalo State University's published cost of attendance totals $23,171 annually, including $18,906 in out-of-state tuition ($8,486 for in-state residents), $16,716 for room and board, and $1,052 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid.

The average net price across all income levels is $14,229, representing $8,942 in financial aid savings compared to the sticker price. This 38.6% reduction from published costs demonstrates substantial aid effectiveness.

Buffalo State's net price of $14,229 compares favorably to the peer median of $14,093, representing just $136 more than similar institutions. The relatively modest net price difference indicates Buffalo State provides competitive affordability within its peer group.

For New York residents, the lower in-state tuition base provides additional savings. The significant gap between published costs and actual net price means families should focus on net price calculations rather than sticker price when evaluating affordability.

Buffalo State's aid structure effectively reduces costs for most students, making higher education more accessible than the published price suggests.

Buffalo State graduates demonstrate steady earnings growth over their careers. Median earnings rise from $40,877 six years after enrollment to $46,928 at eight years and $52,334 at ten years, representing 28.0% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 2,041 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures. Graduates earn $1,644 below expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing Buffalo State around the national average at the 48.8th percentile for earnings uplift.

Low-income graduates earn $39,200, reflecting outcomes for students from lower-income backgrounds. Earnings span from $32,907 at the 25th percentile to $71,022 at the 75th percentile, reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory.

The 2.2:1 ratio between top and bottom quartile outcomes indicates meaningful variation across academic paths. Approximately 21.0% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating moderate rates of advanced education pursuit.

Buffalo State offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for ranking analysis. Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering Technology ranks #5 nationally and #2 in New York, producing 39 graduates with median earnings of $79,418 and an exceptional value score of 84.6.

Corrections Administration ranks #22 nationally and #3 in New York, graduating 145 students with median earnings of $50,353 and a strong value score of 89.0. Information Science/Studies ranks #39 nationally and #6 in New York, with 70 graduates earning $58,684.

Business Administration and Management represents the university's largest program, graduating 176 students annually with median earnings of $50,668. Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching ranks #44 nationally, graduating 112 students with median earnings of $41,942.

These flagship programs demonstrate Buffalo State's strength in applied fields and professional preparation across diverse career pathways.