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Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY · Public · 18,101 students

A vibrant student life with strong community bonds.

Acceptance rate

49.0%

SAT (mid 50%)

1330–1500

Avg net price

$18,784

after aid

Next deadline

Nov 1

EA

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and Stony Brook University’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. Stony Brook University admitted 49.0% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 13301500 on the SAT and 2933 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Stony Brook University actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Research-Driven, Dynamic Education

An exciting and dynamic education awaits you at Stony Brook, where you can explore your academic passions and jump-start your future with powerful career resources.

The university offers over 300 fields of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs, with opportunities for pre-professional and accelerated degrees.

  • Biomedical Engineering, BEChemical & Molecular Engineering, BE; Civil Engineering, BE; Computer Engineerin
  • Biology, BSBiochemistry, BS; Chemistry, BS; Climate Science, BS; Computer Science, BS; Data
  • English, BAAfricana Studies, BA; Anthropology, BA; Art History & Criticism, BA; Art, Studio

Verified from stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
  • Regular decisionFebruary 1, 2027

Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu.

The essays

Supplemental essay prompts

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

  • Please discuss why you are a good fit for your preferred University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE).

    Up to 250 words

  • What aspects about medicine/dental medicine intrigue you? Describe how these aspects influence your life.

    Up to 650 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $30,539, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $18,784.

Information on Tuitions and Fees, Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Value is available.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $74,502.

Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Campus life

The feel of the place

Everyone is super friendly and considerate. I never feel alone here. There's always someone who would be willing to go out dining with me, or do a late night study run to the library.

Students gather in the North Reading Room for late-night study runs, and the Staller Center offers a wide range of arts and culture.

Quick answers

Stony Brook University FAQ

How hard is it to get into Stony Brook University?
Very hard. Stony Brook University admits 49.0% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1330 to 1500 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the Stony Brook University application deadline?
The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes February 1, 2027.
How much does Stony Brook University cost?
The list price is about $30,539, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $18,784.
Is Stony Brook University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $74,502 ten years after enrolling, and 77% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Stony Brook University.

Spike answers from Stony Brook University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.