Stony Brook University
A vibrant student life with strong community bonds.
Acceptance rate
49.0%
SAT (mid 50%)
1330–1500
Avg net price
$18,784
after aid
Next deadline
Nov 1
EA
Testing
Optional
2026 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Stony Brook University admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Stony Brook University admitted 49.0% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1330–1500 on the SAT and 29–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Stony Brook University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
What they value
Research-Driven, Dynamic Education
An exciting and dynamic education awaits you at Stony Brook, where you can explore your academic passions and jump-start your future with powerful career resources.
The university offers over 300 fields of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs, with opportunities for pre-professional and accelerated degrees.
- Biomedical Engineering, BEChemical & Molecular Engineering, BE; Civil Engineering, BE; Computer Engineerin
- Biology, BSBiochemistry, BS; Chemistry, BS; Climate Science, BS; Computer Science, BS; Data
- English, BAAfricana Studies, BA; Anthropology, BA; Art History & Criticism, BA; Art, Studio
Verified from stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu and stonybrook.edu.
Applying
Here’s what to send, and when.
- Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
- Regular decisionFebruary 1, 2027
- TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu.
The essays
Here are the supplemental essay prompts.
The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.
Please discuss why you are a good fit for your preferred University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE).
Up to 250 words
What aspects about medicine/dental medicine intrigue you? Describe how these aspects influence your life.
Up to 650 words
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $30,539. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $18,784.
Information on Tuitions and Fees, Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Value is available.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $74,502.
Verified from https://www.stonybrook.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Psychology, General12% of degrees
- Biology, General11% of degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations10% of degrees
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General8% of degrees
- Applied Mathematics7% of degrees
- Economics6% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s the feel of the place.
“Everyone is super friendly and considerate. I never feel alone here. There's always someone who would be willing to go out dining with me, or do a late night study run to the library.”
Students gather in the North Reading Room for late-night study runs, and the Staller Center offers a wide range of arts and culture.
Quick answers
What do people ask about Stony Brook University?
- Is Stony Brook University test-optional?
- For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at Stony Brook University is optional.
- How hard is it to get into Stony Brook University?
- Very hard. Stony Brook University admits 49.0% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1330 to 1500 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- When is the Stony Brook University application deadline?
- The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes February 1, 2027.
- How much does Stony Brook University cost?
- The list price is about $30,539. After aid, families pay $18,784 on average.
- Is Stony Brook University worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $74,502 ten years after enrolling. 77% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about Stony Brook University.
Spike answers from Stony Brook University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.