Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private nonprofit university in Syracuse, NY ranked #1050 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 15,245 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 41.7%. Students most often pursue Finance and Financial Management Services and Accounting and Related Services.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, 91.2% first-year retention, and 81.3% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $41,026, about $24,028 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -6316.2%, roughly 6401.1 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $60,459. That's about $16,771 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Syracuse University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Syracuse University graduates 81.3% of students within six years and keeps 91.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns an F compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Syracuse University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $63,061 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,690 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,444 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,952 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $80,396 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 16.2% of Syracuse University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $21,505 to $55,337 depending on family income. Use Syracuse University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $31,776/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $55,337/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $60,459
- 10-Year Median Earnings $60,459
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $23,697
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 78.7%
- Employment Rate 56.3%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Syracuse University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Syracuse University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Syracuse University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Syracuse University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Syracuse University graduates earn $60,459 median, the -63.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 630-710
- SAT Math 630-720
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 28-32
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 15,245
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 91.2%
- Graduation Rate 81.3%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
How to Get Into Syracuse University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Syracuse University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 41.7%, Syracuse University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Syracuse University accepts 41.7% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1260 and 1430 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Syracuse University undergraduates. Economics, Psychology, General, and Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi draw the most students.
- Economics 6.0%
- Psychology, General 5.5%
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi 5.1%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 5.1%
- Information Science/Studies 4.7%
- Political Science and Government 4.3%
See more majors
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness 3.9%
- Marketing 3.7%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Finance and Financial Management Services $109,595
- 2. Accounting and Related Services $101,760
- 3. Information Science/Studies $101,251
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $100,385
- 5. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $98,978
- 6. Mechanical Engineering $98,391
- 7. Civil Engineering $97,093
- 8. Business Administration, Management and Operations $96,698
- 9. Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations $92,585
- 10. Computer Engineering $84,793
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $135,693
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $123,542
- 3. Computer Engineering (Master's Degree) $116,528
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $109,591
- 5. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $109,108
- 6. Business/Managerial Economics (Master's Degree) $105,701
- 7. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $102,205
- 8. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree) $100,873
- 9. Law (First Professional Degree) $97,544
- 10. International Relations and National Security Studies (Master's Degree) $97,274
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Finance and Financial Management Services grads earn $109,595—29% more than Computer Engineering ($84,793). Graduate: Information Science/Studies programs lead with $135,693 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Syracuse University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 274 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 252 graduates)
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication (Bachelor's Degree, 232 graduates)
- Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degree, 231 graduates)
- Information Science/Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 216 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (77 programs)â–¼
- Economics
- Psychology, General
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Information Science/Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Marketing
- Communication and Media Studies
- Journalism
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biology, General
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Accounting and Related Services
- Design and Applied Arts
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Public Health
- Public Administration
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- History
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Security Science and Technology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Sociology
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Civil Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Special Education and Teaching
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Mathematics
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Real Estate
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Business Services
- Social Work
- Chemical Engineering
- Human Services, General
- Applied Mathematics
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Philosophy
- Anthropology
- Chemistry
- Education, General
- Geography and Cartography
- Interior Architecture
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biotechnology
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Music
- Physics
- Graphic Communications
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Nutrition Sciences
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Area Studies
- Systems Science and Theory
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Architectural History and Criticism
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Classical and Ancient Studies
Online Master's Degrees (68 programs)â–¼
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Social Work
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Journalism
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Civil Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Security Science and Technology
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Psychology, General
- Communication and Media Studies
- Design and Applied Arts
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Chemical Engineering
- Museology/Museum Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Statistics
- Music
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Political Science and Government
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Anthropology
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Public Health
- Nutrition Sciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Economics
- Biology, General
- Area Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Chemistry
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Physics
- History
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- English Language and Literature, General
- Education, Other
- Systems Engineering
- Social Sciences, General
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Biotechnology
Online Doctoral Degrees (41 programs)â–¼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Political Science and Government
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Communication and Media Studies
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Mathematics
- History
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Information Science/Studies
- Geography and Cartography
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Biology, General
- Anthropology
- Social Sciences, General
- Public Administration
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Economics
- Sociology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Philosophy
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Special Education and Teaching
- English Language and Literature, General
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (38 programs)â–¼
- Public Administration
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Security Science and Technology
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Chemistry
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Sustainability Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Area Studies
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Public Health
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Philosophy
- Information Science/Studies
- History
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Education, Other
- Social Sciences, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Library Science, Other
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Geography and Cartography
- Economics
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Biology, General
- Public Policy Analysis
- Nutrition Sciences
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (2 programs)â–¼
- Security Science and Technology
- American Indian/Native American Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 15,245
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 44.7%
- Female Students 55.3%
- Caucasian 55.3%
- Asian 7.3%
- Hispanic 11.5%
- Black 7.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 16.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Syracuse University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Syracuse University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Syracuse University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Syracuse University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 16.2% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Syracuse University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Syracuse University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Syracuse University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -63.2% ROI. Ranked #1050 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $41,026 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $60,459 median earnings. With 81.3% graduating within six years and 91.2% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Syracuse University's Positioning
With a B grade and #1050 ranking, Syracuse University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $41,026 annually, Syracuse University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 91.2% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $28,718 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -63.2% ROI and $60,459 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $31,026+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Syracuse University ranks #1050 of 1927 institutions, with 1522 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 81.3% six-year graduation rate sits 18.8 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 91.2% first-year retention is 14.4 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -63.2% return on investment is 148.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $60,459 run about 38% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $41,026 is roughly $21,152 higher than the national median of $19,874.
Helpfulness for Students
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 91.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 56.3% employment rate within three years sits 11.9 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $41,026 is about $21,152 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 16.2% trails the national share by 17.1 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Syracuse, NY, Syracuse University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a B from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #1050 nationally Category results include Completion (A-), Support (A), Career Outcomes (B), and Affordability (F).
About 91.2% of first-year students return, and roughly 81.3% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -63.2% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $41,026 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $80,396.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $39,370 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $23,697 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 16.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $60,459 six years after enrollment. This is roughly 38% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 56.3% of alumni working within three years.
The ROI comes in near -63.2%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
41.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Syracuse University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Syracuse, NY 13244
- Website www.syracuse.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$1.76B