College Applications
What is a college application?
A college application is the information and materials you submit to a college or university for admission. Applications help admissions teams learn about your academic background, interests, experiences, and goals.
Each college has its own application process and requirements, so it’s important to review what you'll need before applying.
What information is included?
College application requirements vary by school, but you may be asked to provide:
- An essay or personal statement
- Contact information
- Extracurricular activities, work experience, and awards
- High school transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Standardized test scores
At 51ºÚÁÏÍø, getting started is simple: applying is free, and we’re test-optional, so you can choose whether to include SAT or ACT scores as part of your application.
How to complete a college application
Once you've narrowed down your college list, check what each school requires and gather your application materials. Depending on the college, you may apply directly through the school’s website or use a platform like the Common App.
Students applying to 51ºÚÁÏÍø can complete UB’s online application or apply through the Common App.
Tips for submitting a strong application
A strong college application should give admissions teams a clear picture of who you are as a student and what you could bring to their campus.
Before you hit submit:
- Start early. Give yourself enough time to gather materials and complete each part of your application.
- Follow the instructions. Make sure you've provided everything required by the college or program.
- Tell your story. Use essays, activities, and other application materials to highlight your interests, experiences, accomplishments, and goals.
- Proofread your application. Check for spelling errors, missing information, and other mistakes before submitting.
- Keep track of deadlines. Know when each application is due, so you don’t have to rush at the last minute.
Common application deadlines
College application deadlines vary by institution. Common admission options include early action, early decision, regular decision, and rolling admissions.
Early Action and Early Decision allow students to apply earlier in the admission cycle, while Regular Decision follows a school’s standard application deadline. Colleges with rolling admissions review applications as they are received rather than waiting until one set deadline.
UB offers Early Action deadlines as well as rolling admissions, giving you flexible options for applying.
Who will UBecome? Future engineer? Nurse? Entrepreneur? Something you haven't discovered yet? Start exploring what’s possible and apply to UB today.
Your future starts today!
- Apply online!
- Financial aid is available, and we accept applications on a rolling basis
- We have comprehensive support services that will get you through college and into a great career