/Admissions
Undergraduate Admissions

Family & Supporters

Tips and Information

As a parent or supporter, you play a vital role in your student’s journey toward higher education. Below are many tools, insights, and updates that are valuable to parents and supporters throughout the application and admissions process.

Financial Aid and Affordability

We know college is one of the most pivotal investments you and your student will make for their future. Let us help you explore how to best manage and support that investment through our robust resources such as the Net Price Calculator, which provides you an estimate of the affordability your student will have access to at Stony Brook University. 

Learn more about how to apply for financial aid, prep for on-campus employment opportunities, or find ways to best support your student’s college journey with our Financial Aid Parents and Family page.

Health, Safety and Wellness

At Stony Brook University, your student’s safety and well-being are our top priorities. That is why we offer Student Health Services and insurance within tuition. 

  • The Student Health Center provides a variety of Student Health Services, to meet your student’s health care needs. From primary physicians and nurses, to social workers and health educators, students are able to schedule appointments conveniently. 
  • Our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers mental health resources and support to all students. One prolific CAPS resource is TimelyCare, a 24/7 Medical & Mental Health Support where convenience meets support. 
  • The Center for Prevention and Outreach (CPO) aids Seawolves who may be facing any sort of struggles such as violence, addiction and other mental health issues. Resources they provide can include counseling, classes and other training revolving around safety tips, and sexual health education. This center overall illuminates pathways to resources students need at the moments they need it most. 
  • The University Police Department (UPD) offers a range of student-focused programs, like Bicycle and Skateboard Safety, CPR/First Aid, and general safety on campus. This team also provides the SB Guardian App which is a phone based app providing direct connection from your student to University Police through a panic call mode and a safety timer mode.

Student Privacy (FERPA)

The Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) governs access to student educational records. We encourage you to discuss these regulations with your student to understand options for granting parental access. 

Supporting First-Generation Families

We recognize that every path is different for each one of us, and that includes parents who may not have attended college. First-generation Seawolves bring diverse perspectives and experiences to campus. At Stony Brook, we open our First Generation awareness programming to all students and supporters who shape the path forward for their family unit. Programming can include, and is not limited to: new first-generation student orientations, mentorship and scholars programs, as well as the annual First-Generation Celebration Week and various graduation celebrations. 

SBU is dedicated to providing robust mentorship and student support to ensure that our Seawolves have the community, as well as every opportunity, needed to reach their full potential. By supporting First-Generation Seawolves with this necessary foundation, we pave the way for equitable educational opportunities and experiences for future generations!

Stay Involved & Connected With Your Student & Their Journey SBU

Connect via the Seawolf Family Portal (SFP)

Designed specifically for parents and supporters of prospective applicants and future Seawolves, our dedicated platform keeps you connected based on where your student is in their admissions journey.

By joining SFP, you will gain direct and EXCLUSIVE access to the following:

  • Weekly Highlights & Articles: Stay informed on campus news, key deadlines, academic programs, and university life.
  • Virtual Info Sessions & In-Person Events: Get direct invites to share with your students for online workshops, Q&A panels, and other exclusive campus events.
  • Personalized Updates: Receive tailored emails and guidance specific to your student’s current stage in the admissions process.
  • Next Steps: View your student’s next steps and checklist items after they submit their application.
  • Direct Interaction: Engage directly with admissions staff! Have a question about an article or feature? Leave a comment on any post, and our team will jump in to chat with you.
Preview of Seawolf Family Portal

How To Join:

  • Sign Up: Create an account through the Seawolf Family Portal 
  • Complete the Brief Survey: You will receive a follow-up email with a link to set up your profile and complete a quick onboarding survey so we can tailor content to your interests.
  • Explore & Connect: Start scrolling through articles, exploring resources, and joining the conversation!

Other Ways To Engage With SBU:

Have Questions?

Our team is here to help you every step of the way.