The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is dedicated to helping you reach your goals. From the moment you inquire, you'll experience the Canisius difference. We treat every student as an individual, offering personalized attention and guidance throughout the application process. We’ll take care of the details, so you can focus on what matters most—your bright future.
Apply Today
At Canisius University, we believe in providing equal opportunities for all students. Apply without any cost and take the first step towards your future success.
Key Application Deadlines
- After February - Rolling Admissions
How to Apply
Where can I apply? Complete our application either with our Canisius Application or through Common App.
What do I need to complete my application?
Required items:
- Completed application
- Personal essay (250+ words)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official high school transcript
And one of the following:
- Additional personal essay
- Additional letter of recommendation
- Interview with a Canisius alum, faculty member, or admissions counselor
- A portfolio, media kit, or link to a YouTube, Twitch, or other platform channel
Are ACT or SAT scores required? No, Canisius does not require test scores for our application.
Testing Policy
Starting with students applying for Fall 2024, Canisius will not require standardized admissions test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, as part of admission or merit-based scholarship decisions.
Please click here for our test-free announcement and details.
*If you are an international student, please see our International Admissions Page for testing requirements.
Additional Admissions Information
The Office of Undergraduate Admissions has been reviewing applications holistically for many years. To us, you are more than just the grades on your transcript or a standardized test score. When reviewing your application we consider a broad range of factors including your experiences, personal qualities, interests, and academic metrics. Reviewing in this way allows us to evaluate an applicants potential to be successful academically as well as how they will contribute to the Canisius community in meaningful ways.
The middle 50% of first year students accepted to Canisius had the following profile:
-High School Average: 85-94%
-SAT Combined Score 1030-1260
-ACT Composite Score: 20-27
While your academic record is an important element of your application for admission, we are also interested in the many other aspects that make you who you are. We are interested in your personal qualities, talents, passions, and interests. We learn this information from the required application items such as your essay, letters of recommendation, and list of extracurricular activities.
Previously Attended Canisius?
Welcome back! Students who have taken a year or more off or who are looking to come back for a second bachelor’s degree should complete the re-admit application for admission. The Office of Undergraduate Admission will review your application and inform you of your next steps to make your transition back as smooth as possible. In addition to the application, we also request that you send us a brief essay explaining your educational and career goals. Indicate what you plan to accomplish by re-enrolling at Canisius. We also request a recent copy of your resume and any official transcripts from colleges or universities you have attended since you left. If you have any questions, please feel free to email: @email
Re-Admit Application
Readmissions policy for Service Members
Canisius University will promptly readmit a Service Member with the same academic status they had when last attending the school or accepted for admissions to the school. This requirement applies to any student who cannot attend school due to military service. Please reference the frequently asked questions: Institutional Requirements for Service Members guidance, provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This is in accordance with Chapter 3 Volume 2 of the Federal Student Aid handbook.
All-College Honors Program
The All-College Honors program at Canisius offers an extraordinary educational experience to a diverse group of motivated, high-achieving students. This select group represents the top 10 percent of our applicants who have excelled academically in high school and on college entrance exams. All-College Honors graduates are consistently accepted into the nation’s top graduate and professional schools and have high placement rates into jobs within their career fields.
Honors provides a challenging curriculum and abundant co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to nurture the academic, cultural, and social growth of its students.
Helpful Resources
Looking for something else? Check out these pages on our website that you might be interested in:
