Chances of Getting Into Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, New York • Public University • #58 National • Founded 1957
Stony Brook Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Stony Brook SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is a rising star in the SUNY system — a AAU member that punches far above its price point. With strong STEM programs, a medical school, and Brookhaven National Laboratory nearby, Stony Brook offers research opportunities rivaling private universities.
Top Programs
What Makes Stony Brook Unique
- AAU member — elite research status for a public school
- Adjacent to Brookhaven National Laboratory
- Strong computer science and engineering at state school prices
- Stony Brook Medicine and health sciences campus
- Long Island location near NYC
Stony Brook Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Stony Brook Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Stony Brook: Admission Tips
Stony Brook is getting more competitive; don't underestimate it
CS and engineering are especially competitive majors
Research opportunities are abundant — mention interest in undergraduate research
SUNY application is straightforward; focus on your academic record
Honors College is selective and worth applying to
The Brutal Truth About Stony Brook Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 49% acceptance rate, Stony Brook rejected over 21,420 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Stony Brook, having a 3.72 GPA and 1390 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Stony Brook doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Stony Brook genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 49%-acceptance-rate basket.
Stony Brook Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Stony Brook University?
Stony Brook University has an acceptance rate of 49% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 42,000+ applicants, approximately 3,300 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Stony Brook?
The average GPA of admitted students at Stony Brook University is 3.72. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.57, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Stony Brook?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Stony Brook students is 1310-1470. The average SAT score is 1390. For ACT, the range is 29-33 with an average of 31.
Is Stony Brook hard to get into?
Yes, Stony Brook University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 49%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Stony Brook cost?
Tuition at Stony Brook University is $10,556 per year, with total cost of attendance at $28,800. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $14,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Stony Brook?
Your chances of getting into Stony Brook University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 49% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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Popular Majors at Stony Brook
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