US University · Ranked #58
Stony Brook University: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
Stony Brook University is a moderately selective university in Stony Brook, New York, admitting around 49% of those who apply. Ranked #58 nationally in our dataset, it rewards students who meet its academic benchmarks and submit a complete, on-time application — the bar is attainable for solid candidates and the process is more forgiving than at the most selective schools.
Stony Brook is a top SUNY research university on Long Island, known for its strong STEM programs, medical center, and excellent value as a public institution.
This guide breaks down Stony Brook University's selectivity, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
Stony Brook University admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 49%
- SAT range
- 1250–1430
- Average GPA
- 3.7
- In-state
- $10,556
- Out-of-state
- $28,546
- Enrollment
- 17,999
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Stony Brook, New York
How hard is it to get into Stony Brook University?
With 49% of applicants admitted, Stony Brook University is moderately selective. The school admits the majority of students who meet its academic benchmarks, so the most common reasons for denial are an incomplete application, missing the deadline, or numbers that fall below the published ranges. Hitting the academic targets and applying on time is most of the battle.
For students who meet the numbers, Stony Brook University is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
Academic profile of admitted students
Admitted students at Stony Brook University typically score between 1250 and 1430 on the SAT — this is the middle 50% range, so a quarter of enrolled students scored below 1250 and a quarter above 1430. A score at or above 1430 is competitive even at the more selective end of the pool. Alongside test scores, the average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.7 on a 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants generally earned mostly A's in a rigorous course load.
As a planning benchmark, aim for an SAT around 1340 or higher and a GPA at or near 3.7. Scores meaningfully below the 25th percentile (1250) are not disqualifying on their own, but they put more weight on the rest of the application to compensate.
Stony Brook Universityapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Early Action: Nov 1
- • Regular Decision: Jan 15
Stony Brook University offers a non-binding Early Action deadline of Nov 1, with Regular Decision closing Jan 15. Early Action lets you submit early and receive a decision sooner without any obligation to enroll, so there is little downside to applying EA if your application is genuinely ready by Nov 1 — a rushed early application is worse than a strong regular one.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 15.
Notable programs at Stony Brook University
- Computer Science — a perennial high-demand field with competitive secondary admission at many schools.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Biology — a common pre-health major with heavy lab and prerequisite expectations.
- Mathematics — a research-intensive area well-supported by the institution's faculty.
- Health Sciences — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
Stony Brook University is particularly known for Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Mathematics, and Health Sciences.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending Stony Brook University
As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, Stony Brook University costs significantly less for New York residents: in-state tuition is about $10,556 per year versus roughly $28,546 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $17,990 annually. If you are not a New York resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.
Tuition is only part of the cost — add room, board, fees, and personal expenses for a realistic total — but the in-state advantage makes Stony Brook University an especially strong value for state residents.
What are your chances at Stony Brook University?
Get a free AI-powered admission probability based on your GPA, test scores, and profile — plus essay feedback and a school strategy.
Calculate my chances free →No credit card. Official site: www.stonybrook.edu
Stony Brook University: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at Stony Brook University?
- Stony Brook University has an acceptance rate of 49%, which makes it moderately selective. For students who meet the numbers, Stony Brook University is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
- What SAT score do you need for Stony Brook University?
- Admitted students at Stony Brook University typically score between 1250 and 1430 on the SAT (the middle 50%). Aiming for 1430 or above makes you competitive, while a score below 1250 puts more weight on the rest of your application.
- What GPA do you need to get into Stony Brook University?
- The average GPA of admitted students at Stony Brook University is approximately 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive applicants generally have mostly A's in a rigorous course load; a GPA at or near 3.7 is the practical target.
- What is the application deadline for Stony Brook University?
- Stony Brook University's application deadlines: Early Action is Nov 1 (non-binding); Regular Decision is Jan 15. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is Stony Brook University a public or private university?
- Stony Brook University is a public university. In-state students from New York pay significantly less than out-of-state students.
- How much does it cost to attend Stony Brook University?
- As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, Stony Brook University costs significantly less for New York residents: in-state tuition is about $10,556 per year versus roughly $28,546 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $17,990 annually. If you are not a New York resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.