Admission Requirements

Thank you for your interest in Binghamton University! Use the information below as a guide as you apply for graduate studies. Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions or the academic program if you have questions.

To be eligible for graduate study, you must:

  • Provide a complete set of your undergraduate (and, if applicable, graduate) transcripts showing one of the following:
    • You have earned a bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) from a nationally or regionally accredited college or university
    • You are within one academic year of earning a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from a nationally or regionally accredited college or university
    • You are eligible to apply as part of a memorandum of understanding between your current institution and Binghamton University 
  • Have earned, at minimum, one of the following:
    • A 3.0 GPA over your entire undergraduate career
    • A 3.0 GPA during the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits of your undergraduate degree, with most courses graded regularly (not as "pass/fail")
    • A 3.0 GPA in a graduate degree, with most courses graded regularly (not as "pass/fail")
    • In consideration of the different grading scales used around the world, each academic department evaluates international transcripts to determine on a case-by-case basis whether they demonstrate one of the above requirements. 

To apply, you must submit the application materials detailed below.

For Graduate (Master's and Doctoral) Degree Programs

All applicants must submit:

International students must also submit:

For Accelerated/4+1 Degree Programs

The requirements for accelerated/4+1 degree program applicants vary by department. See the accelerated/4+1 degree program application instructions for more information.

Typically, accelerated/4+1 degree program applicants must submit the same materials as graduate degree program applicants.

For Certificate Programs

The requirements for certificate programs vary by student status and department. See the certificate program application instructions for more information. 

For Non-Degree/Non-Matriculated Study

All applicants must submit the online application and their transcript(s). 

Online Application

All applicants, except accelerated/4+1 degree program applicants and add-on certificate applicants, must complete the online application, which requires a valid email address. Once you start your online application, you will be able to select your program. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials. See the application instructions for more information. 

Do not mail hard (paper) copies of any application materials unless specifically requested by the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Transcript(s)

Upload scanned copies of official transcript(s) from each college or university you have attended to the online application. The Office of Graduate Admissions does not require hard (paper) copies of your official, final transcript(s) unless you enroll at Binghamton University. If official transcripts are submitted by mail the Office of Graduate Admissions is unable to return them. 

  • Scanned copies of your official transcript are preferred. Web printouts of your unofficial transcript are not acceptable. If you are a current or former Binghamton University student with access to the Binghamton Portal, you may upload the academic transcript available on BU Brain. To do this, go to the "Student" tab, then "Student Records," select "Online Academic Transcript," perform the print function, then change "Destination" to "Save as PDF."
  • Scan and upload the files with care, making sure they are clear, legible and complete. The graduate admissions committee will receive the files you scan and upload.
  • Preferred file format is PDF. Other accepted file formats include .doc, .docx, .rtf, .jpg and .tif.
  • Check that your transcript shows all of your grades or marks, as well as your degree type and your degree conferral date. If you are in the process of completing a degree, submit copies of your most current transcript with your online application.
  • Cross out or cover your Social Security Number (SSN) prior to scanning your transcript. Your SSN should not appear on your scanned transcript.

International students:

All transcripts submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions must be officially translated into English for review.

Transcripts from some international institutions do not specifically state that a degree has been granted. If your transcript does not show that your degree has been conferred or awarded, you will also need to submit an official (attested) diploma.

International students from India:

We will accept a provisional certificate of degree as final. If you are admitted, you will need to provide proof that you have completed your degree in order to register for courses beyond the first semester.

Personal Statement

The personal statement offers you an opportunity to discuss the talents, experiences and goals that qualify you for acceptance to a graduate program at Binghamton University. The graduate admissions committee is seeking evidence of your qualifications and aptitude, as well as your ability to communicate clearly and professionally.

Typically, the personal statement will incorporate the following:

  • Your reasons for pursuing graduate study at Binghamton University
  • Your personal background
  • Your academic history
  • Your work and internship experience
  • Your future plans
  • Other information that may be of special interest and importance to the graduate admissions committee

Review your program's admissions requirements for specific content and page length/word count guidelines. Unless noted otherwise by your program, your personal statement should be a maximum of two single-spaced pages in length. Use standard fonts. For tips on creating a personal statement, review the Writing a Personal Statement reference guide, available through the Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development at Binghamton University.

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) should include your name, contact information, educational degrees and certificates, and your work and volunteer experience listed in reverse chronological order. You should also include additional information relevant to your program, such as research experience, teaching experience, published works, grants or fellowships, awards, professional associations and professional licenses.

Unless noted otherwise by your program, your resume or CV should be a maximum of two pages in length.

Letters of Recommendation

The Office of Graduate Admissions generally requires two letters of recommendation from individuals who can comment authoritatively on your academic achievements and/or work or internship experience related to your program. Check your program's admission requirements for specific instructions related to letters of recommendation. Some programs, for example, require three letters.

  • Be sure to give your recommenders enough time to write and submit the letters prior to your program's application deadline.
  • You may submit your online application before your recommenders have uploaded their letters. You will continue to have full access to your recommender list if you need to send reminders or change recommenders.
  • When you submit your recommenders' contact information on the online application, they will receive an email with instructions for uploading their letter. You will receive an email confirmation when your recommender has uploaded the letter.
  • The Office of Graduate Admissions strongly encourages all recommenders to submit letters online to expedite the completion of your application. However, if your recommender is unable to submit the letter online, your recommender may mail the letter directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions. However, you must still register your recommender on the online application. Have your recommender send the letter in a signed, sealed envelope to the Office of Graduate Admissions. View addresses.

Official Test Scores

The GRE and GMAT help demonstrate your aptitude for graduate studies. Although Graduate Admissions does not establish minimum test scores, admission is competitive, so strive for scores that demonstrate your potential. 

Check your program's admission requirements carefully to see what test scores are required. Be sure you take tests early enough to provide scores by your program's application deadline.

All official test scores should be delivered to the Office of Graduate Admissions electronically from the official examiner. Scores should not be sent directly to the academic department.

Note that it can take as long as two full weeks for the testing agency to process your order and deliver your scores to Binghamton University. 

GRE

Most programs require GRE scores. Some programs also require GRE Subject Test scores. View your program's admission requirements for details.

To learn more about the test or register to take the in person or at home test, visit the GRE website. Submit test scores electronically, using Binghamton University's code: 2535.

For eligible students, information on the GRE Fee reduction form can be found here.

GMAT

Some programs — including programs in the School of Management — require GMAT scores rather than GRE scores. Other programs will accept GMAT scores in place of GRE scores. View your program's admission requirements for details.

To learn more about the test or register to take the test, visit the GMAT website. Submit test scores electronically by selecting "State University of New York (SUNY) - Binghamton University" from the score delivery menu.

Additional Required Application Materials for International Students

International students who hold, or who hope to obtain, F-1 or J-1 visas also need to submit the materials below as part of the application process.

Immigration and Financial Documentation

This information is required for immigration and visa purposes.

Uploading your immigration and supporting financial documentation to the online application is recommended and will expedite the processing of your I-20, if you are admitted. However, these documents are not required in order to submit your application. If you prefer to provide this documentation after an admission decision is made, or if you do not have sufficient funds to cover your educational expenses and will rely on funding from the graduate program, you may submit this documentation later.

The graduate admissions committee does not have access to your financial documents and makes admission and funding decisions based on merit alone. Assistantships are awarded competitively to the most academically qualified students.

International Student Financial Statement (ISFS) Form

Use the International Student Financial Statement (ISFS) form to attest that you have enough funds for all tuition, fees and personal expenses for at least 1 year of graduate study at Binghamton University. See the ISFS form for complete instructions and required amounts for your program of study. If you are receiving University funding, you are still required to submit the ISFS form.

Supporting Financial Documentation

In addition to the ISFS form, you must provide financial documentation that supports what you have indicated as your source of funding on the form. Most often, this means including official bank statements or official scholarship/sponsorship letters from agencies or governments. See the ISFS form for complete instructions. If you are receiving University funding, your funding offer letter will be uploaded on your behalf. However, additional documentation will be required if the amount of funding offered is less than the amount you are required to certify.

Proof of English Proficiency
(including TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test Scores)

The TOEFL iBT, TOEFL Essentials, IELTS, PTE Academic and Duolingo English Test scores help demonstrate your proficiency in English at the college level.

All Proof of English Proficiency test scores should be delivered to the Office of Graduate Admissions electronically from the official examiner. Scores should not be sent directly to the academic department.

  • TOEFL iBT: Binghamton University requires a minimum TOEFL score of 80 on the Internet-based test (iBT).
    • TOEFL iBT MyBest scores are accepted.
    • The following TOEFL iBT tests are accepted:
      • TOEFL iBT test (taken at a test center),
      • TOEFL iBT Home Edition,
      • TOEFL iBT Paper Edition.
    • To learn more or register for the test, visit the TOEFL website. To submit a score report, use Binghamton University's code: 2535.
  • TOEFL Essentials: Binghamton University requires a minimum TOEFL Essentials score of 9.
    • TOEFL Essentials MyBest scores are accepted.
    • To learn more or register for the test, visit the TOEFL Essentials website. To submit a score report, use Binghamton University's code: 2535.
  • IELTS: Binghamton University requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 5.0.
    • The IELTS Online option is also accepted*
    • To learn more or register for the test, visit the IELTS website. Requests for IELTS score delivery to Binghamton University's Graduate Admissions Office must be submitted directly to the test center where you took the IELTS test.
    • *In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Binghamton University has temporarily approved the use of IELTS Online as proof of English proficiency through the 2023 application cycle.
  • PTE Academic: Binghamton University requires a minimum PTE Academic score of 53.
    • The PTE Academic Online option is also accepted*
    • To learn more or register for the test, visit the PTE Academic website. To submit a score report, select "Binghamton University - State University of New York" from the score delivery menu.
    • *In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Binghamton University has temporarily approved the use of PTE Academic Online as proof of English proficiency through the 2023 application cycle.
  • Duolingo English Test*: Binghamton University requires a minimum Duolingo score of 105.
    • To learn more or register for the test, visit the Duolingo English Test website. To submit a score report, select "Binghamton University (SUNY)" from the list of institutions.
    • *In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Binghamton University has temporarily approved the use of the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency through the 2023 application cycle.

Some academic departments require higher minimum scores. View your program's admission requirements for details. Be sure to schedule your test with consideration for your academic program's application deadline. Please note that it can take as long as 2 full weeks for the testing agency to process your order and deliver your scores to Binghamton University.

A waiver for the proof of English proficiency requirement is available to applicants who meet one or more of the following eligibility criteria at the time of enrollment into a graduate degree program at Binghamton University:

  • The applicant is a citizen or permanent resident, from a country in the waiver list, where English is the official language and where English is the language of instruction. Waiver eligible countries are restricted to the following: United States, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales), Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Tanzania, and some Canadian provinces. 
  • The applicant is expected to receive (or has received) a bachelor’s degree or higher from an institution located in a country on the waiver list. Waiver eligible countries are restricted to the following: United States, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales), Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Tanzania, and some Canadian provinces. 
  • The applicant has completed at least two years of full-time study at an accredited higher education institution, from a country in the waiver list, where English is an official language and where English is the language of instruction. Waiver eligible countries are restricted to the following: United States, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales), Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Gambia, Tanzania, and some Canadian provinces. For applicants in this category please contact the Graduate Admissions Office to receive a waiver, as you may be required to certify that high school education was completed from an institution wherein the medium of instruction was English. 
  • The applicant is a current Binghamton University student.
     

Applicants who have not met one of these criteria, but will become eligible for a waiver of the English proficiency requirement at the time of enrollment into a graduate degree program at Binghamton University, have two options:

  • Certify their English proficiency by submitting official scores from one of the tests listed above.

or

  • Apply without certifying their English proficiency. If an applicant is admitted without certifying their English proficiency, their offer of admission will be provisional until they submit qualifying scores or they have confirmed with the Office of Graduate Admissions that they are eligible for a waiver. Once eligibility is verified, the admission will be switched from provisional to regular status. Please note that applicants in provisional admission status are not eligible to receive an I-20/DS-2019 immigration document.

If you are unsure whether or not you meet the eligibility requirements for a waiver for the proof of English proficiency requirement, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Policies

Admission Requirements

The standards maintained by the Graduate School, the Office of Graduate Admissions and academic departments are applied to ensure that students who are admitted are well qualified and trained to study at Binghamton University. These standards assist in the identification of students who have a reasonable expectation of successfully completing a graduate program and who, with the benefit of graduate education, are most likely to contribute substantially to their academic and professional fields.

Application Materials

All materials submitted by applicants become the property of Binghamton University.

Honesty

Any deliberate falsification or omission of application data may result in rescinding of admission, denial of permission to enroll or dismissal from courses. Through online application submissions, all applicants affirm acceptance of these terms and conditions.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

Binghamton University is strongly committed to equal opportunity/affirmative action and is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. We recruit students and employees and offer access to services without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or national origin.

As required by Title IX and its implementing regulations, Binghamton University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the educational programs and activities which it operates.  This requirement extends to employment and admission.  Inquiries about sex discrimination may be directed to the University Title IX Coordinator or directly to the Office of Civil Rights (OCR).  Contact information for the University Title IX Coordinator and OCR, as well as the University’s complete Non-Discrimination Notice, may be found on the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion website.