Applying to the Honors College

Application procedures:

  • Submit your application for admission by December 1st, and submit all supporting documentation, including high school transcript, SAT/ACT scores, 2 Teacher Evaluations, and the Supplemental Application (including essay) by December 31st.
  • Check the box indicating you want to apply for the Honors College on the Supplemental Application.
  • Students applying through the Common Application must write an essay on Topic #1 in the Personal Essay section: Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have have faced and its impact on you.

All items must be sent to:

Stony Brook University
Undergraduate Admissions
118 Administration Building
Stony Brook, NY 11794-1901
U.S.A.

Please be sure to include your full name, date of birth, and home address on all correspondence.

Admissions Criteria:
Admission to the Honors College is based on a range of criteria. We are looking for bright, energetic students who have demonstrated an ability to succeed in our rigorous academic program and to take advantage of the research, creative, and cultural opportunities available at Stony Brook . Admission is highly competitive.

For High School Students Applying for the Freshman Year:
Minimum criteria include a combined score on the two traditional components of the SAT (critical reading and math) of 1300 or an ACT score of 29 and an un-weighted high school average of 93 or higher. It is important to have succeeded in challenging courses while showing energy and leadership in extracurricular areas of interest, such as the visual, performing, and literary arts; athletics; or science.

For College Students Seeking to Transfer into the Honors College:
A small number of first- and second-year students from Stony Brook or other colleges may be accepted for transfer into the Honors College . Minimum transfer criteria include a GPA of 3.5 in a rigorous and well-rounded academic program. It is also important to have demonstrated vigor and leadership outside of the classroom. If you are interested in applying into the Honors College as a transfer, you must complete an application and return it by May 1st. A copy of the transfer application can be obtained by contacting the Honors College.