Cortland Admissions: What's the Process Like?

Hey everyone, I've been doing some research on SUNY Cortland and I'm really interested in applying there. Could anyone provide me with an overview of the admissions process and what they look for in applicants? Thanks in advance!

Hello! I'm glad to hear you're interested in applying to SUNY Cortland. Let me give you an overview of the admissions process and what they typically look for in applicants.

1. Application: SUNY Cortland accepts applications through the SUNY Application or the Common Application. You'll need to complete and submit either of these, along with the required application fee (unless you've received a fee waiver).

2. High School Transcript: You'll need to request and submit your official high school transcript. Cortland will look at your overall academic performance, including your grades and the rigor of the courses you've taken, to assess your preparedness for college-level work.

3. Test Scores (optional): SUNY Cortland is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, which means you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, if you feel that your test scores are an asset and accurately represent your capabilities, you may choose to submit them. If you don't submit test scores, your academic performance, as seen in your high school transcript, will hold more weight in the admission decision. For more detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

4. Letters of Recommendation: You'll need to submit at least one letter of recommendation with your application, which should come from a teacher, counselor, or mentor who knows you well and can speak about your strengths and character, as well as provide broader context for the numerical achievements showcased elsewhere in your application.

5. Personal Essay: You'll be required to write a personal essay as part of the application, where you should highlight your interests, experiences, and personal qualities. Take your time to craft a well-written and engaging essay that showcases your unique perspective, beyond your academic abilities.

6. Extracurricular Activities: SUNY Cortland will consider your extracurricular involvement, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, and internships. Demonstrating commitment, leadership, and a strong work ethic through these activities can help set you apart from other applicants.

In terms of what SUNY Cortland looks for in applicants, they initially focus on academic performance and your potential to succeed in college. Later on in the admissions process, your personal essay, extracurricular activities, and optional recommendations can provide a more well-rounded view of your character and capabilities, which helps admissions officers make their final decisions.

Once you submit your application and all required materials, the admissions committee will review your application and make a decision. SUNY Cortland operates on a rolling basis, which means they review applications as they're received and decisions are typically sent within 4 to 6 weeks after submission.

While there is no hard deadline for your application, SUNY Cortland recommends sending it in by December 1, to receive full consideration. Applying on the early side also often increases your chances of receiving financial aid, as some aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Good luck with your application!