Founded in 1846, University at Buffalo. is a Public college. Located in New York, which is a city setting in New York, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 20,412 full time undergraduate students, and 9,772 full time graduate students.
The University at Buffalo Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 13:1. There are 1153 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University at Buffalo include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
59%
Application Deadline
1-Nov
Application Fee
50
SAT Range
1070-1270
ACT Range
24-29
Admissions at UB are considered Selective, with ,127% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 16 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
93% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 65% were in the top quarter, and 28% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University at Buffalo.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
27%
“We know about current events and vote”
58%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
48%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
29%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
8%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
40%
“We bought the gear”
56%
“We live for the big game”
10%
“It”s not really our thing”
16%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
53%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
21%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
67%
“They keep regular office hours”
21%
“They”re always available”
5%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
32%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
59%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
4%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
25%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
41%
“We only party on weekends”
33%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
6%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
52%
“There might be people who do”
38%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
27%
“We know about current events and vote”
58%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
48%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
29%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
8%
“I only go out in groups”
46%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
44%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
40%
“We bought the gear”
56%
“We live for the big game”
10%
“It”s not really our thing”
16%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
53%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
21%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
6%
“Available in class”
67%
“They keep regular office hours”
21%
“They”re always available”
5%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
32%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
59%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
4%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
262 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 15 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
203 Students rated off-campus housing 3.7 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
305 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 24 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
311 Students rated campus facilities 4 stars. 33 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
310 Students rated class size 3.5 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
305 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
311 Students rated local services 4 stars. 41 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
311 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.
University at Buffalo REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University at Buffalo?
127 Students rated University at Buffalo
Evelyn
Prospective04/27/2025
I am interested because it has my major and isn’t too expensive compared to other colleges. It also has a good variety of sports and I like the prospect of living in a city. However, it doesn’t have exactly what I’m looking for, as it is lacking in some classes I would like to take and some sports.
Arthur
Prospective04/23/2025
Amazing personal and really challenging programs
Alana
Prospective04/18/2025
I'm really excited about the University at Buffalo, especially since I'm planning to pursue a degree in pharmacy there. It's a huge draw for me that UB is rated the number one pharmacy school in New York. The reputation of their program speaks volumes about the quality of education I can expect to receive, and I believe it will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in my future career.
Another aspect that attracts me to UB is the strong emphasis on student engagement. I’ve heard that the campus is vibrant and full of opportunities to get involved, whether it’s through clubs, organizations, or research projects. Being part of a community where I can connect with other students who share my interests in pharmacy and healthcare is really important to me. I want to be in an environment that encourages collaboration and networking, which I believe will enhance my educational experience.
The campuses themselves are also impressive. I love the idea of having access to modern facilities and resources that support my studies. The layout of the campus and the various amenities available make it feel welcoming and conducive to learning. Overall, the combination of a top-rated pharmacy program, strong student engagement, and a great campus environment makes the University at Buffalo an ideal choice for my academic journey. I can't wait to be a part of it!
Yavuz
04/12/2025
This is probably the best public university in the entire state of New York (and possibly the Northeast). It is a research institution focused on enhancing itself and its students to highest level possible. There are many amazing programs, activities, events, clubs, extracurriculars, courses, classes, and other opportunities. Overall, with the affordable tuition, this is the best university that won't be regretful.
Sean
Prospective04/07/2025
I committed to attending University at Buffalo for a few reasons. It is the flagship University of New York, so it has a great reputation which will help me in job searches. Buffalo is also an affordable state school with amazing programs. Buffalo has a very large and beautiful campus, and is only a short drive away from the city of Buffalo. There is a lot to do on the campus and in the city, which makes Buffalo a great choice for anyone looking for a university that balances academic and student life.
Benito
Prospective04/05/2025
The University at Buffalo stands out as an appealing choice for me due to its strong academic reputation, diverse campus culture, and amazing student life. As a top institution of the SUNY system, UB is recognized for its rigorous academics and research opportunities, especially in fields like engineering, computer science, business, and health sciences. The university offers students the chance to engage in hands-on research and real-world projects, helping them build practical skills and connections for their careers. Beyond academics, UB also fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, drawing students from across the world together. The campus is alive with student organizations, events, and resources that support personal and professional growth. Additionally, UB provides high-quality education at an affordable cost, particularly for New York residents, making it a great value. Located in the city of Buffalo, students tend to enjoy the blend of urban and campus life with access to unique cultural experiences, professional opportunities, and outdoor attractions. Overall, the combination of academic excellence and supportive community makes UB a compelling choice for students like me that are seeking a well-rounded college experience.
Nolan
Prospective04/03/2025
University at Buffalo is an appealing secondary option for me due to its strong academic offerings, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and its location in Buffalo, a city known for its rich history and vibrant community. The university’s engineering programs, particularly in electrical engineering, align closely with my academic interests and career goals. UB's research opportunities and connections with industries in the Buffalo area would allow me to engage in hands-on projects and internships, which would be valuable as I pursue my degree.
In addition to its academic strengths, UB offers a range of extracurricular activities that would allow me to stay involved in leadership and community-building. As someone who values time management and balancing multiple responsibilities, I look forward to joining student organizations that focus on engineering, technology, and entrepreneurship. These opportunities would help me further develop my skills and network with like-minded peers.
However, what would elevate UB to my first choice is a stronger focus on the sense of community and school spirit that I feel at Miami University-Oxford. UB could enhance student engagement by fostering more of the collaborative, tight-knit campus environment that I value. A more prominent campus culture with events, activities, and spaces for students to connect and grow together would make UB an even more attractive option. Despite this, I recognize UB as a solid choice, offering excellent academics and extracurricular opportunities for my growth.
Natalie
Prospective04/03/2025
I have heard that their history program is great from someone who completed a masters in museum curation at UB. I am also happy with the amenities provided, and the tuition is affordable in general.
Zara
03/31/2025
The University at Buffalo (UB) is a solid choice for students looking for an affordable, well-rounded education at a large public research university. As part of the SUNY system, it offers strong academics, particularly in STEM, business, and health sciences. The school is known for its research opportunities, with a ton of funding for projects across various disciplines. If you’re into hands-on learning, UB can be a great place to build experience.
The campus itself is huge, with North Campus being the main hub and South Campus hosting some older, more traditional buildings. The size means you get access to many resources—career services, student organizations, and a diverse student body—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if you prefer a smaller, close-knit environment.
One downside is Buffalo’s weather—winters are brutal, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. If you’re not used to that, it might take some adjusting. Also, while Buffalo is an improving city with a decent food scene and sports culture, it’s not a major metropolitan area like NYC or Chicago, so the social scene can feel quieter.
Overall, UB offers a great education for the price, especially with scholarships. It’s a great choice if you value affordability, research opportunities, and a big-campus feel. Just be prepared for the winters and the spread-out campus life!
Michelle
10/05/2024
The University at Buffalo (UB) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation in Western New York, known for its commitment to research, education, and community engagement. As the flagship institution of the State University of New York system, UB offers a diverse array of programs across its 13 schools and colleges, catering to a wide spectrum of interests and career aspirations. With over 100 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate programs, students have the opportunity to explore their passions and engage in interdisciplinary studies that prepare them for the complexities of the modern world.
The campus itself is a beautiful blend of historic and contemporary architecture, providing an inspiring environment for learning and collaboration. Students can enjoy a vibrant campus life, complete with a multitude of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that foster personal growth and social connections. The UB community is characterized by its inclusivity and support, where students from all backgrounds come together to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences.
UB is also recognized for its research initiatives, consistently ranking among the top public research universities in the nation. Faculty and students collaborate on groundbreaking projects that address real-world challenges, from health and engineering to the arts and social sciences. This commitment to research not only enhances the academic experience but also contributes positively to society.
Additionally, UB's location in Buffalo offers students a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The city is rich in culture, history, and outdoor activities, providing an ideal backdrop for academic and personal exploration. With a strong alumni network and partnerships with local industries, UB graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make meaningful contributions to their fields.
In summary, the University at Buffalo is more than just an institution of higher learning; it is a community that nurtures curiosity, fosters innovation, and inspires students to make a difference in the world.
Sherry
07/26/2024
The school is second to none, inside New York State. The curriculum is above par, and what is expected at a university that is an Ivy League establishment. With two centrally located campuses to choose from, one in the Town of Amherst (NY), and the other in the City of Buffalo (NY), UB is a great location to spend four years at. It is also a great place to round out and complete an education at, which is what I am doing.
awsan
08/18/2023
Its a pretty average school there's nothing special about it. However their spring and fall fest events are fun to go to. Theres been multiple hateful speakers invited to give speeches by some of the clubs and the school doesn't do anything about it.
Alex
07/01/2023
It is a very big school so everyones experiences will typically be different depending on the people you surround yourself with or the major you are in. But for the most part, the professors are really kind and accessible and there are plenty of oppurtunities to make friends or meet people such as hundreds of clubs or activities even if you are not big into the party scene (although if that is your thing it is partly knwon as a party school).
AICHETU
03/23/2023
It’s a large school and I’d prepare your financials before applying. Make sure you use up all the resources given to you, you are paying a lot and they sometimes do not tell you everything. I would hound professors if they tend to slack and not everyone has your best interest at heart.
Tendaji
12/23/2022
One of the standout features of UB was the food. The dining options on campus were diverse and delicious, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. Whether I was in the mood for a quick slice of pizza or a sit-down meal at a nicer restaurant, there was always something to suit my tastes.
Another highlight of my time at UB was the quality of the professors. I had the chance to take classes with some truly exceptional educators who were knowledgeable, passionate about their subjects, and always willing to help students succeed. They were a big part of the reason why I felt so engaged and motivated during my time at UB.
One aspect of UB that I particularly appreciated was the inclusivity of the campus. The university made a concerted effort to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or identities. This was reflected in the diverse student body and the many resources and programs available to support marginalized communities.
On the downside, some of the facilities at UB were a bit outdated and in need of renovations. While this didn't greatly impact my experience, it was something I noticed during my time there.
One area where UB really excelled, however, was in its use of technology. The campus was very tech-savvy, with plenty of resources and support available for students looking to make the most of the latest tools and platforms. Overall, I would give the University at Buffalo 4 stars. While there were a few areas where the university could improve, the overall experience was very positive. The great food, excellent professors, and inclusive campus culture, combined with the tech-savvy environment and large student body, made for a fulfilling and rewarding college experience.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University at Buffalo is 59%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
If I could give my high school self any advise, it would be to try to concentrate more on school than anything. I sometimes got caught up in working several jobs through school and balancing a social life. I would have told myself to work smarter, not harder. To find one job that I would be able to provide for myself with and stick with that throughout school. I definitely would have told myself to READ THE BOOKS! Throughout high school, I was able to pass Advanced Placement exams without ever reading the textbooks. I thought that I could continue this through college, yet found out quickly this was not a feasible study plan. Once I learned that reading the assignments was necessary for good grades, my GPA rose.
A person who is confident in their background who wants to obtain that bachelors degree. A person who strives to learn not just for that A or B but for the sake of learning as well.
Here at the University at Buffalo, I am surrounded by students who are dedicated to their school work and remain focused in order to reach their goals.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
Catching the shuttle buses that transfer you from the north and south campuses due to the amount of students that may try and get on at any given time.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
There aren't any specific stereotypes localized to only this school. All schools have some amount of frat boys, pot heads, and jocks and geeks. UB could be considered to lean in the direction of geeks, as it has good engineering and architecture programs, and you can pick out any Division 1 athlete by the clothes promoting the school they wear all day.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Some of the most popular organizations are the Sororities and Fraternities. When walking through the student union its very likely to see someone representing their group. Joining clubs and organizations is one of the best ways to get involved. Its not the most important but its a great way to meet people. We also have fall fest and spring fest where different artist come to perform. Students always come out and enjoy themselves. We always have the hottest artist out come to perform at UB.
The best thing about UB is the diversity on campus. There are so many different backgrounds and although it may seem like a cultural group only interacts with themselves, everyone interacts with each other. I would advise not to be intimidated by the size of the school because even with the largest classes the professor and undergraduate TA's make themselves available to you and want to see succeed. UB is a great University and i highly recommend it to anyone looking to further their education. The tuition is reasonable and you pay for a great education.
Classes are very large at first they could get as large as 400 students in 1 lecture hall but my classes now that I am a senior are a lot smaller. They are no larger then 150 students and my labs have about 12 students in them. With large classes there is also a recitation where the class is split in to smaller sections and go over any homework or questions from lecture with a Teaching assistant.
Students work extremely hard at UB. The SIlverman Library which is open 24hours is a second home to many undergraduates. Here is where most students get their studying done. I am a Psychology Major here at UB and at first the classes seemed easy but as the years went by things got more difficult and required intense studying. Its important to always stay on top of your work especially as a junior and senior. The Psychology department as well as all of the academic programs is well organized and the advisor are helpful with mentoring and guidance and provides many scholarship opportunities and different ways to excel.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
77% of students attending University at Buffalo receive some sort of financial aid.
34% were awarded federal grants.52%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.