Syracuse University
The Vibe Check
Syracuse University pulses with a vibrant, high-energy spirit, anchored by a fierce sense of school pride seen in the sea of orange on game days. The campus feels like a dynamic hub of creativity and tradition, blending the resources of a major research institution with the tight-knit community of a Division I athletics powerhouse.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Syracuse is a powerhouse in communications, business, and the arts, with the renowned S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications leading the charge. The university emphasizes hands-on learning through state-of-the-art facilities like the Bird Library and the Goldstein Student Center, while strong research opportunities are available through institutes like the Burton Blatt Institute.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Syracuse
Student life in Syracuse is dominated by spirited tailgates and cheering on the Orange at the Carrier Dome for football and basketball games. Beyond sports, students explore the vibrant Armory Square for dining and nightlife, hike or ski in the nearby Finger Lakes region, and enjoy year-round festivals and a growing arts scene.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($79,164):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Syracuse University has a dedicated Department of Public Safety and offers robust programs like the GSO escort service for nighttime safety on campus. While the surrounding city of Syracuse has typical urban challenges, the campus itself is generally considered safe with active student patrols and emergency alert systems.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-renowned S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications offers unparalleled industry connections and alumni networks.
- ✓ Division I athletics and spirited campus culture foster a strong sense of community and school pride.
- ✓ High retention rate of 91.2% reflects student satisfaction and supportive academic environment.
- ✓ Prime location in upstate New York provides access to outdoor recreation in the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks.
Cons
- ✗ High total cost of attendance with an average net price of $41,026, leading to potential student debt.
- ✗ Urban setting in Syracuse can have cold, harsh winters that may not suit all students.
- ✗ Acceptance rate of 41.69% makes it selective, but not as accessible as some public universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Syracuse University is best known for its S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, one of the top programs in the world for media and journalism. It is also highly regarded for its business school (Whitman), information studies, education, and its iconic Carrier Dome, home to the Orange basketball and football teams.
Syracuse has a moderately selective acceptance rate of 41.69%. While not as competitive as Ivy League schools, applicants typically need strong credentials, with an average SAT score of 1351 and a solid GPA. Holistic factors like essays, extracurriculars, and demonstrated interest play a significant role in admissions decisions.
Campus life is energetic and community-focused, with a strong emphasis on school spirit driven by Division I athletics. Students enjoy a mix of urban amenities and suburban campus feel, with easy access to downtown Syracuse for concerts and dining, while on-campus activities include over 300 clubs and traditions like Winter Carnival.
Syracuse can be a worthwhile investment, especially for students in high-earning fields like communications or business, with a 10-year median salary of $79,164. The high retention and graduation rates (91.2% and 82.4%) indicate strong student outcomes, but the net price of $41,026 means families should carefully consider financial aid and scholarships to manage costs.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1870
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 28,738
- In-State Tuition $63,061
- Zip Code 13244
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $41,026 and tuition at $63,061 for all students, Syracuse is a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of $79,164 suggest a strong return for many graduates. The high graduation (82.4%) and retention (91.2%) rates indicate students are satisfied and persisting, making the degree worthwhile, especially for those leveraging top programs like communications and business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.