First-year applicants

First-year requirements

SUNY Cortland welcomes a first-year class of approximately 1,200 students annually. We seek to identify well-rounded applicants who show the potential to succeed in a rigorous academic environment and the desire to become active participants in the campus community.

All applicants are reviewed individually based on the academic requirements of their school system. Preference is given to applicants who have completed the recommended years or units of coursework in the following areas:

History: 4
English: 4
Mathematics: 3-4 
Science: 3-4 
Foreign Language: 3-4

Average GPA: 90.3

Note: SUNY Cortland is test-optional for prospective students, meaning standardized test scores are not required in the admissions process.

More Information about Requirements

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)

The Educational Opportunity Program at SUNY Cortland offers college access, financial assistance and research-proven support to students who have strong potential but might otherwise be excluded from higher education due to circumstances of academic underpreparation and economic disadvantage.

To be considered for EOP, students can complete the SUNY Application or the Common Application. Students must also complete the EOP Financial Information Form on the SUNY website and forward all specified financial documents by March 1 for priority consideration. Transfer students must complete the EOP Transfer Verification Form.

For more information on EOP, visit suny.edu.