Start Here First!
This overview will help you understand what you can expect when you apply to the University at Buffalo. We understand that applying to an overseas university can be challenging, so use this page to navigate the entire application process and find links to detailed information about each step.
Applying to UB
You can apply using any of these methods, but only choose one! Carefully follow the instructions on the application that you choose, and then your information will be sent to the Office of International Admissions.
Freshman or Transfer?
UB has specific criteria that determine whether you are a transfer or freshman applicant. Confirm your applicant status by checking out the glossary.
Stay organized
Collect and scan all the necessary documents as early in the application process as possible, even before you apply. Save them on your computer to use later.
Set up your email preferences to make sure messages from International Admissions don’t go to your junk folder. Check your email often after you have applied.
TIMELINE
A confirmation email will be sent approximately 24 hours after submission of your online application.
An email will be sent directly from UB when we have created your application account. This email will include a one time use Pin number and link to the online Applicant Status Portal, where you will upload and submit all your application documents.
You can access the Applicant Status Portal at any time, as many times as you need to.
Remember, the sooner you submit your documents for review, the sooner your admissions counselor can send you your admissions decision.
More information about the documents you need:
Do not send anything to us in the mail
You will submit all of your documents electronically using the online Document Submission System.
SUNY Application or Common Application Users
If you submitted documents through one of these applications they will be sent to UB. You can use the Applicant Status Portal to upload any additional materials that may be required.
TIMELINE
UB International Undergraduate Student Application: The second email will be sent approximately one day after application submission.
SUNY Application or the Common Application: The second email will be sent 1-2 weeks after you submit your application.
Once you have completed your application and submitted your documents online, one of our experienced admissions counselors will review your application. We will review everything you have submitted in the Applicant Status Portal to determine if you will be a good fit here at UB.
TIMELINE
We begin announcing admission decisions for Spring and Fall term applications in late fall. Decisions are offered on a rolling basis thereafter.
Admissions decision announcements will begin in mid-November. Applicants will be directed to decisions via email.
After you are accepted
All admissions decisions are released electronically through the applicant's individual application status portal. When a decision on an application is available, instructions will be sent via email to login to the application status portal. Decisions letters will be available for download in the portal.
You have decided that UB is the school for you, so it’s time to reserve your place here by paying your tuition deposit.
If you are planning to live on campus, please visit the Campus Living website to submit a housing application and pay the housing application deposit. The housing application system typically opens in September for the next Spring semester, and February for the next Fall semester.
Deposit deadlines
Spring Semester: December 1
Fall Semester: May 1
Missed the deposit date?
Tuition deposits are accepted after the deadline dates if seats are still available. But don’t lose your chance to study at UB; make your commitment by the specified deadlines.
Now that you have reserved your place at UB as well as your room in the residence halls, it’s time to begin your New International Student Check-in. Activate your UB student account, register for the International Student Welcome Series and much more online.
Before we issue your I-20, your admissions counselor will do a final check of all your documents. If we are missing anything from you, you will receive an email from our office telling you exactly what we need.
Once you’ve paid your tuition deposit and sent in all the required documents, we will create your I-20 (F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (J-1 visa).
Moving?
Make sure the Office of International Admissions has your current mailing address. If you have moved since you applied, you can update your address information at any time using the Applicant Status Portal.
TIMELINE
Immigration documents are sent via express courier to students outside the U.S. We will send you emails throughout the process to let you know when your immigration document is ready, and how you can track the package online.
UPDATE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all documents are currently sent electronically.
You have your admission letter in hand. Now is the time to get your visa, arrange transportation to the U.S., and determine what you will need while living in Buffalo. We can’t wait to welcome you to our university community!
Catch the UB Spirit!
Get a head start on making Buffalo your new home. Connect with UB online and meet our students, staff and faculty.
Fall 2023 Applications
All application systems are now open! Fall admission decisions are being released up through our May 1 deposit deadline.
