Undergraduate Admissions

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is here to help you achieve your goals. Experience the Canisius difference as soon as you inquire. Because we see every student as a unique individual, not just another number, we’re dedicated to providing you with personalized attention and support as you navigate the application process. You can even count on us to handle many of the complex details of your application for you, so you can focus less on paperwork and more on your bright future.

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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.

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Deadlines for Fall 2024 Applicants

  • January 15, 2024 is our Regular Application deadline
  • March 1, 2024 is our Late Application deadline

After March 1, rolling admissions if space permits. 

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

 

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.

Learn More 

Helpful Resources

Looking for something else? Check out these pages on our website that you might be interested in: