Buffalo, NY - Nearly 1,000 local students have applied to Canisius University under the new Buffalo Promise Scholarship, the university’s bold initiative announced in fall 2024 to make college more affordable. As of May 8, 989 prospective undergraduates have applied for admission to Canisius from the 142- ZIP code; 313 have been awarded a Buffalo Promise Scholarship after completion of the financial aid process; and 120 have committed to Canisius for fall 2025.
The strong application and enrollment numbers mark a promising start to the scholarship’s pilot year and reflect a 74% increase in applicants from the 142- ZIP code and a 59% increase in applicants from Erie County, compared with the fall 2024 admissions cycle.
Launched in October 2024, the Buffalo Promise Scholarship covers 100% of undergraduate tuition for up to four years for eligible students, significantly expanding access to a Canisius education for families in Buffalo and across the region.
“We are thrilled with the interest in the Buffalo Promise Scholarship and what it signals about our ability to attract and support high-achieving local students,” said Danielle Ianni, PhD, vice president for enrollment management. “This response underscores how deeply the promise of affordability resonates with students and families.”
The scholarship is available to admitted students who reside in Buffalo or adjacent communities with 142- ZIP codes and whose household adjusted gross income is $125,000 or less. In addition to zero tuition, students benefit from the university’s Golden Griffin Guarantee, which ensures graduation in four years, as well as access to a new Student Success Center that offers wraparound academic and career support.
Canisius projected that approximately 800 students would apply for the scholarship in the pilot year of the Buffalo Promise Scholarship, with an anticipated savings of more than $25 million to students and families.
“We launched the Buffalo Promise with the goal of breaking down financial barriers and building up student opportunity,” said President Steve Stoute. “These numbers show that students are responding to that message, and we are excited to welcome the first class of Buffalo Promise Scholars this fall.”
For more information about the Buffalo Promise Scholarship, click here or contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
