First-Year Admission
We’re educating the next generation of students to become the environmental leaders of tomorrow!
ESF is a small college with big ideas. Our faculty, students, and alumni make a global impact improving and sustaining the environment. We offer a world-class education among a close-knit community of scholars with common values and a shared sense of purpose.
Admission to ESF is competitive, but our process is a personal one. Our small size and focus mean that we provide every applicant with personalized attention. Our Admissions counselors are available to answer your questions and assist you throughout the process. Your interests, abilities, and goals are important to us in providing the best guidance we can as you explore your options.
Here are some tips when applying:
- Applicants should present strong high school academic credentials.
- A college preparatory curriculum is expected — three units each of college preparatory mathematics and science are required, four years are highly recommended.
- Art, architectural, or technical drawing courses are highly recommended for applicants to Landscape Architecture.
- Advanced coursework at the honors or college level is highly recommended.
Ready to Apply?
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible in order to receive the fullest possible consideration. Choose one application:
SUNY Application Common Application
Key deadlines
- Early action filing deadline is Nov. 15*
- Regular decision filing deadline is by Jan. 15**
- Guaranteed Transfer Admission deadline is Jan. 15
- FAFSA completion should be done as soon as possible.
SAT: 2530
ACT: 2948
TOEFL DI: 2530
FAFSA: 002851
NYS TAP: 0950
*Early Action plans are non-binding; you will receive an early response to your
application, but you do not have to commit to enroll until May 1.
**The Admissions Committee begins review of the application only after all supporting materials are received, so forward all required items as soon as possible after applying. Applications received after the deadline will be considered on a space available basis.
Educational Opportunity Program
ESF and the State University of New York recognize that providing access to an educational opportunity for all state residents means being sensitive to the educational needs of people with varying social, cultural, educational, and economic backgrounds.
The goal of the EOP at ESF is to provide qualified students with a college education and the opportunity for personal growth and professional development. Counseling, financial assistance, and tutoring are provided on an individual basis.
Guaranteed Transfer Option
A unique opportunity for high school seniors to apply for future transfer to ESF in either their sophomore or junior years.
ESF has agreements with Cooperative Colleges in New York and surrounding states that identify equivalent courses for ESF lower division degree requirements and designate advisors at each campus to assist in course selection and scheduling. ESF Admissions staff members also advise students preparing to transfer, and they regularly visit Cooperative College campuses.
Hear from a Mighty Oak
One of the main reasons I love ESF is the intricate support network the school has created.
Sean Files, Environmental Science
About ESF
Programs, Majors, Minors
We offer 24 Bachelor of Science programs, 28 minors, and three associate degree programs
within our eight academic departments.
Student Life
ESF students are encouraged to dive in and take advantage of all that ESF has to offer. We offer many opportunities for support, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and lifelong friendships.
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Tuition & Aid
A college education is an investment in your future, and it’s hard to find a better
educational value than ESF. Find out how we can help make college more affordable.
Living in Syracuse
Just minutes from campus, downtown Syracuse offers students arts and cultural destinations where top-notch performances, exhibits, theater, and dining experiences are always on the menu.