Application Process

Step 1: Apply Online

The easiest, fastest and most secure way to apply is online. SUNY Cortland accepts the Common Application and the SUNY Online Application. Choose just one way to apply; both require a $50 non-refundable application fee.

Interested students are encouraged to submit either the Common Application or the SUNY Application as well as the appropriate supplemental form.

Students who previously enrolled at SUNY Cortland and would like to re-enroll can start the re-admission process.

Please complete and submit only one.

Step 2: EOP Applicants Only

SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provides access, academic support and financial aid to students who show promise for succeeding in college but who may not have otherwise been offered admission.

To be eligible for admission to EOP, students must:

• Be a New York state resident for 12 months prior to enrollment;
• Require special admissions consideration; and
• Qualify as economically disadvantaged according to the guidelines. In selecting students for the program, priority is given to applicants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.

All first-year students applying for EOP through the SUNY Application or the Common Application 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 general information on EOP, including eligibility criteria, visit the SUNY website. You can also learn more on the university’s EOP webpage.

Students who mistakenly apply for EOP admission and do not meet the criteria should notify the Admissions Office as soon as possible so that their application can be processed accordingly.

Step 3: Submit Academic Information

First-year and transfer applicants must submit a high school transcript, and transfer applicants are required to submit transcripts from all colleges attended. High school transcripts may be submitted electronically or via mail.

International students are encouraged to view the International Admissions Undergraduate Applicants page for any additional admission requirements.

Step 4: Submit Other Requested Items

The admission process often includes a review of recommendation letters, mid-year or mid-semester grades or an audition or portfolio for students interested in the fine arts. Please contact the Admissions Office with questions about submitting any additional items.

First-year applicants are asked to submit one letter of recommendation. This can be done through the SUNY Counselor Portal, the Common Application or Naviance websites. Recommenders also may utilize the electronic Teacher/Counselor Recommendation Form to submit recommendations directly to SUNY Cortland. This is optional for transfer students.

Recommended Application Dates

Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible in order to receive full consideration.

First-year students: Nov. 15 for early action consideration
Transfers: Nov. 1 (spring applicants); March 1 (fall applicants)

State University of New York (SUNY) policy prohibits SUNY Cortland admission applications from inquiring into an applicant's prior criminal history. After acceptance, the College shall inquire if the student previously has been convicted of a felony if such individual seeks campus housing or participation in clinical or field experiences, internships or study abroad programs. The information required to be disclosed under SUNY policy regarding such felony convictions shall be reviewed by a standing campus committee consistent with the legal standards articulated in New York State Corrections Law.

Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions. Students who have concerns about such matters are advised to contact the dean's office of their intended academic program.