Stony Brook University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy for first year students. We will assess options to continue utilizing test optional policies for future semesters at a later time, in coordination with SUNY.
Test-optional means that the decision is yours whether to submit SAT/ACT scores with your application. If you believe test scores add value to your application then you can submit them. You can choose not to submit them if you would like us to focus with more scrutiny on your high school record and other supporting documents.
Admission to SBU has never been based on one single attribute, but a complete examination of a student’s academic record, plus many other academic and personal factors, including high school GPA, strength of curriculum, course-level grades and number of classes taken in core subjects, evidence of leadership, special talents or interests, and other personal qualities through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other non-academic pursuits. We’ll continue to review applicants in a holistic manner.
You will have the option of letting us know if you would like your scores considered when you fill out your application. By selecting “No” to the question on your application asking if you want to have your test scores considered, your SAT/ACT scores will not be used during your admissions evaluation and decision.
While test scores are not required, it may be helpful to have test scores when students prepare to register for classes and may exempt students from taking some placement exams.
If you feel that your test scores accurately reflect your abilities and support your application, you may decide to submit your scores. The profile below represents the middle 50% of the entering class for Fall 2022*.
Not at this time, but it is required for our Scholars for Medicine and Scholars for Dental Medicine honors programs.
No, we are committed to the equitable treatment of first-year applicants with and without test scores for entry to all lower-division undergraduate majors.
Students cannot change their mind after the application has been submitted. Whatever you indicate on your application will be final.
Test scores will not be required for Honors College, WISE, or University Scholars.
SAT or ACT scores IS required for Scholars for Medicine and Scholars for Dental Medicine.
International students are required to submit standardized test scores as proof of English proficiency. Submit your English Proficiency via an official score report for the TOEFL, Duolingo, SAT, ACT, IELTS, AP, IB, A levels or PTE Academic. Review our criteria for international students here.
Applicants from native English-speaking countries may be exempt from submitting an English proficiency test score. If you have attended a high school in the United States for 3 years, you may be exempt as well.
Transfer students who have not completed a college-level writing course at a US college (or have received a grade below a C in the course) are also required to submit scores from one of these exams.
The test-optional policy is in place. Test-optional means that the decision is yours whether to submit SAT/ACT scores with your application. If you believe test scores add value to your application then you can submit them. You can choose not to submit them if you would like us to focus with more scrutiny on your high school record and other supporting documents.
The State University of New York (SUNY) policy prohibits Stony Brook 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.