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.
A directional estimate — not a prediction
Admitted students at Buffalo State typically score between 960 and 1190 on the SAT, with a median of 1080. This represents the middle 50% range, meaning one-quarter of enrolled students score below 960 and one-quarter score above 1190. SAT Math scores range from 480 to 590, while SAT Verbal scores span 480 to 600, showing balanced expectations across both sections. The peer median SAT score of 1090 places Buffalo State slightly below typical institutions in its comparison group, though the 10-point difference is minimal. These test score ranges indicate that Buffalo State admits students with solid academic preparation while maintaining accessibility for those with moderate standardized test performance. Students scoring within or above the 960-1190 range should feel confident about their academic competitiveness for admission. Those scoring below the 25th percentile (960) are not automatically excluded but should recognize they may face more competition and should ensure other application elements demonstrate college readiness. The relatively balanced Math and Verbal score ranges suggest Buffalo State values well-rounded academic preparation rather than specialization in particular subject areas. Students should consider whether their academic profile aligns with this range when building their college list.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
Buffalo State enrolls a diverse student body that reflects its commitment to educational access. The university serves 53.3% Pell-eligible students, indicating that more than half of enrolled students come from lower-income families. First-generation students represent 34.0% of enrollment, showing substantial representation of students whose parents did not complete college. Transfer students comprise 26.8% of the student body, reflecting significant pathways for students beginning at community colleges or other institutions. This composition indicates Buffalo State prioritizes enrollment of students from diverse economic and educational backgrounds. The high Pell share demonstrates the university's role in serving students who might otherwise lack access to higher education due to financial constraints. The substantial first-generation enrollment shows Buffalo State's effectiveness in attracting students who are navigating the college experience without family precedent. Students from lower-income backgrounds should recognize they will join a substantial community of peers with similar experiences. Transfer applicants should note the significant transfer population, suggesting institutional experience supporting students transitioning from other colleges. This diverse composition creates an environment where students from various backgrounds can find community and support systems.
Given Buffalo State's 75.9% acceptance rate, most academically prepared students can expect admission. However, students seeking additional options should consider these alternatives with comparable outcomes or better accessibility.
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Buffalo State students show mixed outcomes in retention and completion metrics. The freshmen retention rate of 54.7% means approximately half of first-year students return for their sophomore year, which falls significantly below the peer median of 73.2%. The six-year graduation rate of 36.0% indicates that about one-third of students complete their degrees within the standard timeframe, also below the peer median of 49.3%. However, Pell-eligible students demonstrate stronger persistence, with a completion rate of 48.7% compared to the overall 36.0% rate. This 12.7 percentage point advantage for Pell students is notable and suggests institutional support systems may be particularly effective for lower-income students. The positive Pell completion gap indicates that students from lower-income backgrounds who enroll at Buffalo State actually outperform their more affluent peers in degree completion. Students considering Buffalo State should weigh these completion rates when assessing institutional fit and support systems. The data suggests that while overall completion rates are moderate, students who are committed to their educational goals and utilize available support services can succeed. Prospective Pell-eligible students should view the higher completion rate among their peer group as encouraging evidence of institutional support for student success.
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