How to Apply to Syracuse University

Updated

Applications are open, and Syracuse University offers distinct paths for undergraduate, graduate, and online programs. The right entry point depends on which program you're targeting: prospective undergraduates apply through the university's undergraduate admission process, while graduate and online applicants typically apply through the school or college offering their program. Before starting an application, identify your program so you know which application and requirements apply to you.

Find your program first

Syracuse University is made up of 13 schools and colleges and offers more than 200 majors and minors. The university's "Find Your Program" tool lets you search by program name or by academic interest, and it separates:

  • Undergraduate majors and minors
  • Graduate programs
  • All degrees and programs
  • Online programs

Programs are also grouped by career path, including Architecture; Art and Design; Business and Finance; Communications and Writing; Education; Engineering; Health and Human Services; Humanities and Languages; Law and Government; Performing Arts; Science and Mathematics; Social Justice and Advocacy; Social Sciences; Sports; and Technology, Data and AI.

Because requirements, deadlines, and application systems can differ by school and degree level, confirm your specific program's page before you begin.

Start your application

The homepage directs prospective students to a Start your Application link. From there:

  1. Choose the application type that matches your level (undergraduate, graduate, or online).
  2. Create an account or log in to the relevant application portal.
  3. Select your intended program.
  4. Complete the application sections and submit the required materials.

The exact materials requested — transcripts, test scores, essays, recommendations, portfolios for certain arts programs — are set by the program and admission office, so check your program's page rather than assuming a single checklist applies to everyone.

Cost and financial support

Syracuse University states that 82% of its students receive some form of financial support, the majority in the form of grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid. The site links to a financial aid page for details. Note that the homepage does not publish tuition figures or application fees, so treat those as things to verify on the relevant admission or financial aid page rather than assuming.

What to check before you apply

  • Program level: undergraduate, graduate, and online applications are handled differently.
  • School or college: your program's home school may set its own requirements.
  • Financial aid: review aid options early, since some aid processes run alongside admission.
  • Deadlines: confirm dates for your specific program and entry term.

If you're still deciding what to study, the "Find Your Program" search and the career-path categories are the fastest way to narrow hundreds of options down to a shortlist.