Via UB Bound - Transitioning to UB's main campus opens hundreds more. Explore what's waiting for you, academically, socially, and personally, when you arrive at UB.
At UB's main campus, your academic horizon expands dramatically. From accelerated master's pathways to new major, entirely unavailable at SIM, Buffalo gives you the tools to go further — faster.
A combined degree program lets you earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in just five years, one more year than your undergraduate alone.
You take graduate-level courses in your senior year, giving you a head start on an advanced degree while saving time and tuition.
Examples of Arts & Sciences majors you can switch into at UB Buffalo.
UB also offers accelerated pathways into professional schools:
UB offers hundreds of minors across all colleges, many of which aren't available through SIM-UB. A minor appears on your UB transcript and costs no extra tuition if you stay within your credit limit. Special note - all internatioanlk students are required to be full time at that means minimu of 12 credits registration, unless on an aprpoved reduce course load as their are just compelted less than 12 credits to gradautes. tuition capped at 12 credits so
Commonly paired major with minors in:
Not sure which minor fits your goals? Your academic advisor at UB can help you map out a minor that aligns with your major requirements and career aspirations, often with no additional semesters needed.
Did you know? Many students arrive at UB and discover programs that weren't available to them through SIM. At UB's main campus, over 300 degree programs are offered, including fields in Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, Social Work, Education, and more.
If your career path has shifted, UB makes it possible to change direction.
Examples of UB programs only accessible on the Buffalo campus:
UB charges tuition per credit hour up to 12 credits. Once you hit 12 credits, the rate is flat! Meaning, taking 15 or 18 credits costs the same as taking 12. This makes loading up on credits one of the best ways to stay on track without paying more.
SIM-UB students may be eligible for scholarships through UB International Education. Ask your advisor about transfer scholarship opportunities and departmental awards available to international students.
As an F-1 student, you are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours/week during the semester. On-campus jobs help offset living costs and count as US work experience on your résumé.
UB's Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (CURCA) connects undergrads with faculty-led research across every discipline, a hands-on opportunity rarely available at SIM's campus scale. Many students present findings at UB's annual Celebration of Undergraduate Research.
Qualifying students can apply to the UB Honors College for smaller seminar classes, priority registration, dedicated advising, and a built-in cohort of high-achieving peers across every major.
One-on-one career coaching, resume reviews, mock interviews, and access to employer recruiting events exclusive to UB's main campus, including on-campus interviews with Fortune 500 companies.
Being physically based in the US opens up Curricular Practical Training (CPT)/ internships and Optional Practical Training (OPT) with companies across the US, an experience that's much harder to access while studying at SIM.
*OPT and CPT are available after 2 semesters in the US*
Tap into UB's 270,000+ alumni network spanning every industry, many of whom return to campus for panels, mentorship programs, and recruiting events specifically for current students.
See yourself at UB. Follow @UB.SIM on Instagram for event updates, campus highlights, and content curated by someone who has walked the path you're about to!
Buffalo has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene, and UB makes it easy to explore it. The Art Bus runs organized trips from campus to Buffalo's cultural institutions, galleries, and public art spaces.
[TO DO: Add specific Art Bus schedule, cost, and keep up with recent news on @ubuffaloart to sign up!]
💡 Tip: International Student Services (ISS) organizes subsidized group trips throughout the year so you can explore Western New York alongside fellow international students.
Take to the water with a sailing excursion on Lake Erie, right along the Buffalo waterfront. Whether it's a guided tour or a lesson, it's a relaxing way to see the city skyline and experience one of the Great Lakes up close. One popular way is with moondanceCat!
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' Letchworth State Park features dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails about an hour from campus. It's one of the most scenic day trips in Western New York, especially popular in the fall for foliage.
Catch an NHL game with the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center, right in downtown Buffalo. Hockey is a huge part of local culture, and games are a great way to experience Buffalo's passionate sports scene alongside fellow students and residents.
Just a short drive from campus, the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls offers over 170 stores, including Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, and H&M, at discounted prices. It's a popular stop for students looking to shop for clothing, electronics, and home goods, and pairs well with a day trip to see Niagara Falls itself.
UB has over 500 student clubs and organizations. From cultural associations to professional societies, all are searchable through UBLinked, UB's official student involvement platform.
Free drop-in social events designed to connect international students with the wider UB community. Let's Fika!: Global Connections Cafe welcomes international and domestic students from across the campus to meet and get to know each other!
UB hosts dozens of fraternities and sororities across four councils: the College Panhellenic Council, Independent Fraternal Organizations, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and the United Council of Cultural Fraternities and Sororities, offering a built-in social and leadership community.
Alumni Arena, the Murchie Family Fieldhouse, climbing wall, pools, and intramural sports leagues give students plenty of ways to stay active on campus, most included at no extra cost with your student fees.
Cheer on the UB Bulls in Division I basketball, football, and more at Alumni Arena and UB Stadium. Tickets are available to students through the HORNS UP app.
Living in the US isn't just about classes. It's about the experiences that shape who you become. From chasing waterfalls 30 minutes from campus to volunteering across America during spring break, these are the moments you'll talk about for the rest of your life.
One of the most visited natural wonders on Earth is literally in your backyard. At just 30 minutes from UB's North Campus, it's an easy day trip any time of year. Winter visits are especially spectacular, with frozen mist and ice formations.
With a Singaporean passport and F-1 visa, you can cross the Rainbow Bridge into Niagara Falls, Ontario for the day. The Canadian side offers a panoramic view of the falls and a charming downtown area.
💡 Tip: Check current border requirements before you go.
UB's Alternative Break program lets you spend spring break volunteering across the US, tackling issues like food insecurity, refugee resettlement, and civic engagement. It's one of the most meaningful ways to see America and give back at the same time.
(check the link for the most updated list)
Explore how Boston's history of collective action and resistance informs modern civic participation strategies.
~$750 · March 14–20, 2027
Engage in community organizing and empowerment to address systemic barriers affecting local school students.
FREE · March 15–19, 2027
Partner with Habitat for Humanity on advocacy, education, and hands-on builds to address housing instability.
~$750 · March 14–20, 2027
Applications typically open in fall semester. Check UB Alternative Breaks for dates and availability.
Buffalo is a passionate sports city. Attend a Buffalo Bills (NFL football) game in the fall, or cheer on the Buffalo Sabres (NHL hockey) in winter. Tailgating, face paint, and a crowd of 70,000! There's nothing like it.
Buffalo is the birthplace of the Buffalo wing, and the food scene goes far beyond that. Explore diverse neighborhoods like Elmwood Village, Little Italy, and the Chippewa entertainment district. It's one of the most affordable food cities in the US.
For most SIM students, Buffalo will be your first time experiencing a true winter, snow, ice, and temperatures well below freezing. It's unforgettable. Build a snowman, go sledding, and experience the quiet beauty of a snowfall. Then buy a proper coat.
Buffalo's location puts you within reach of the entire US Northeast:
Hear From Students Who Made the Move:
Past SIM-UB students share insights about their transition to the Buffalo campus.