​What We Look For

You are probably wondering what it is that makes you stand out during the admissions process. At Syracuse University, you will be considered based on the following:

Preparation and PurposeLink

Your academic performance is a significant factor in our admissions decision, especially your senior year accomplishments. Your participation in honors and advanced placement courses and/or meaningful electives demonstrates your commitment to maximize your college experience.

Educational BackgroundLink

Schools across the country differ in their curriculum, grading policies, and overall quality. Your school’s profile will be a guide when putting your course selections and grades in context.

Standardized Test PerformanceLink

While the rigor of your coursework tells a lot about you, your SAT or ACT score will also be considered (whichever is higher). If you are considering the Score Choice option for the SAT, please be aware that all of your test scores will be required. This works to your benefit—your application will be considered using the highest combination of your SAT scores. Both the old and new revised SAT will be accepted. If you take the new revised SAT, the essay is not required. If you take the ACT, the writing portion is not required.

Syracuse University does not require or consider the SAT subject tests.

PersonalityLink

Grades are only part of our admissions equation. Your personal essay illustrates your goals, interests, experiences, and values. Though an interview is not mandatory, it is an ideal way to further personalize your application.

The Opinion of OthersLink

An evaluation from your guidance counselor and two academic teacher recommendations give admissions representatives a sense of your unique gifts, capabilities, and accomplishments. These testimonials help to round out who you are as a student—and a person.

Extracurricular ActivitiesLink

The Admissions Committee will review your after-school activities, volunteer work, or employment, to see how each illustrates your organizational and leadership skills, as well as your commitment to helping others.

Special TalentLink

Several programs at Syracuse University include a talent component, including art and design, architecture, drama, and music. Talent is evaluated by faculty members, and their evaluations are shared with the Admissions Committee.

Strength of CharacterLink

Syracuse University is looking for more than academically prepared students. Syracuse students innovate and take risks, they are people of integrity and good citizenship. You are a strong candidate if you strengthen and support those around you, even as you are working to develop yourself.

The Selection ProcessLink

Over 33,000 students applied for the fall 2015 semester for a first-year class of about 3,480 students. Each college has specific enrollment goals. When your application and materials are considered, difficult decisions must be made. They are not always a statement of your ability, but a matter of competition. Keep in mind that you can always indicate a second- or third-choice college of admissions, and will be considered on a space-available basis.