With a vibrant community of over 14,000 undergraduates, Syracuse University stands proud in Upstate New York. The institution garnered a remarkable 39,342 applications for the 2022-23 freshman class. Syracuse’s selectivity fluctuates annually, with acceptance rates ranging from the mid-40s to nearly 70% over the past decade. However, securing admission remains competitive, particularly for coveted academic programs like those offered by the renowned S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.
What is The Syracuse University Early Decision Acceptance Rate?
Prospective students eyeing Syracuse University have the opportunity to apply through two Early Decision options. The ED I deadline is set for November 15, while the ED II deadline falls on January 1. Surprisingly, the ED acceptance rate for the Class of 2024 stood at 56%, lower than the 70% rate for regular decision. Among the 2,116 ED applicants, 1,189 received acceptance offers.
What is The Syracuse University Acceptance Rate?
Syracuse University’s transparency regarding admissions data is limited, as they do not provide an annual Common Data Set. However, we do have some insights. In the 2020-21 admissions cycle, they received over 39,000 applications and anticipated enrolling approximately 3,600 first-year students. Looking back at the Class of 2024, which comprised 32,005 applicants, the university accepted 69% of them. Notably, recent admission rates have ranged from as low as 44%, typically hovering around the 50% mark, making the Class of 2024 one of the least selective in the past decade.
What is The Syracuse University SAT, ACT, GPA, and Class Rank?
For the Class of 2024, the average high school GPA of admitted students stood at 3.7. Among them, one-third ranked in the top decile of their high school class, while 65% were in the top 25%, and 90% were in the top half. In terms of standardized testing, the median SAT score for enrolled students was 1260, while the median ACT composite score was 28.
What is The Admission Insights at The Syracuse University?
Admissions Trends & Notes:
- Applications for the Class of 2025 surged by 24% compared to the previous cycle.
- Students of color constituted 39% of the applicant pool, marking a notable 37% increase from the prior year.
- The Early Decision (ED) acceptance rate stood at 60% for the Class of 2023, contrasting with the overall acceptance rate of 44%.
- Syracuse University did not mandate the submission of test scores for either the 2021 or 2022 admissions cycles.
- Given the substantial uptick in applications for the Class of 2025, it is anticipated that Syracuse’s acceptance rate will see a significant decline, possibly reverting to the figures observed in the Class of 2023.
What is The Syracuse University Demographics?
Let’s explore the demographics of current Syracuse University undergraduates:
- Students come from all 50 states, showcasing a diverse representation across the nation.
- The university boasts a global appeal, with students originating from over 120 countries worldwide.
- Competition is fiercest among applicants from densely populated regions such as the Northeast and West Coast. Conversely, candidates from less populated states like Hawaii, the Dakotas, or Montana may enjoy a competitive advantage in admissions.
- Examining ethnic diversity among current undergraduates:
- Asian American: 7%
- Hispanic: 10%
- African American: 7%
- White: 55%
- American Indian: 1%
- Two or more races: 4%
- Gender distribution among current undergraduates leans slightly towards women:
- Male: 46%
- Female: 54%
- Despite the higher number of qualified female applicants, men are not favored in the admissions process at SU. Surprisingly, 66% of male applicants are accepted compared to 71% of female applicants.
- International students comprise 14% of the degree-seeking population at Syracuse University. The top countries of origin for international students include China, Canada, India, South Korea, Brazil, and Thailand.
What is The Syracuse University Yield Rate?
Syracuse University’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who choose to enroll—was exceptionally low at 16% last year. This can be attributed to SU’s competition with elite institutions in the Northeast for the same pool of students. Consequently, the university places significant importance on “demonstrated interest” in prospective students. For context, other private institutions have the following yield rates: Fordham (9%), Boston University (24%), and Villanova University (26%).
What is The Admission Criteria at The Syracuse University?
Syracuse University adopts an impressively holistic approach to its admissions process, considering a comprehensive range of factors to assess applicants thoroughly. Here are the 11 key elements Syracuse University deems “very important” in their admissions decision-making:
- Rigor of secondary school record
- GPA
- Talent/ability
- Class rank
- Essays
- Recommendations
- Interview (optional but encouraged)
- Extracurricular activities
- Character/personal qualities
- Volunteer work
- Demonstrated interest
Straight from the Syracuse University admissions staff, here’s an insight into their holistic approach:
- Academic performance, particularly senior year accomplishments, weighs significantly in the decision-making process, highlighting a commitment to maximizing one’s college experience.
- The personal essay provides a platform to showcase goals, interests, experiences, and values, offering a personalized touch to the application.
- While not mandatory, an interview offers an opportunity for further personalization and insight.
- Guidance counselor evaluation and academic teacher recommendations provide a holistic view of the applicant’s unique strengths and accomplishments.
- Extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and employment history are reviewed to assess organizational and leadership skills, as well as a commitment to community service.
- Programs with talent components, such as art and design, architecture, drama, and music, undergo faculty evaluations, contributing to the overall assessment.
- Beyond academic preparedness, Syracuse University seeks students who demonstrate innovation, risk-taking, integrity, and good citizenship, embodying qualities that enrich both personal growth and community support.
Syracuse University’s holistic approach ensures a thorough evaluation of each applicant, aiming to identify individuals who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to the university community and beyond.
The Syracuse University Application Process Key Tips
If you’re considering applying to Syracuse University among the 39,000+ hopefuls for the upcoming admissions cycle, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Interviews with an admissions representative are available and highly valued in the admissions process at Syracuse University.
- Demonstrated interest is considered “very important” by Syracuse University. Your engagement, such as campus visits (in non-pandemic times), communication with admissions officers, and other interactions, will be taken into account.
- Ensure you allocate ample time and effort to complete the supplemental essay(s) required by SU. For the 2021-22 cycle, there’s a single prompt that all applicants must address:Why are you interested in Syracuse University, and how do you envision contributing to a diverse, inclusive, accessible, and respectful campus? (250 words)
These key points underscore the significance of demonstrating your genuine interest in Syracuse University and articulating how you align with its values and vision for a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
Conclusion
Syracuse University presents a competitive yet holistic admissions process that values academic excellence, personal growth, and commitment to community. Aspiring students should approach their application with thorough research, genuine interest, and a clear understanding of how they can contribute to Syracuse’s diverse and inclusive campus environment. With careful preparation and thoughtful engagement, applicants can position themselves as strong candidates for admission to SU and embark on a rewarding academic journey.