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Cortland University SAT, ACT & GPA Requirements for Admissions

Last Updated on Feb 26, 2025
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Cortland University SAT scores are very crucial in deciding whether you will be able to grab a seat at the esteemed institution. Cortland University focuses more on academic readiness and holistic evaluation during the admission process. This is through its rigorous yet accessible approach to ensure fairness for students from different walks of life. This article presents Cortland University SAT requirements, GPA expectations, ACT benchmarks, and tips on making your application stronger. Continue reading to find out more about preparing an effective application to join the vibrant academic community at Cortland University.

Key Points About Cortland University SAT, ACT, and GPA Requirements:

  • GPA: Students with a GPA of 3.0* or higher are typically competitive.
  • SAT Scores: Cortland University SAT Scores are optional, but the middle 50% of admitted students' score is crucial to achieve in order to be eligible for the admissions.
  • ACT Scores: The ACT composite score for most admitted students ranges between 22 and 27.

Elements 

Details

College Location

Cortland, New York

College Short Form

SUNY Cortland

Acceptance Rate

60%

Early Decision

November 15

Regular Deadline

January 1

SAT Range

Not Given

ACT Range

22–27

Cortland University Admission Requirements

Cortland University employs a holistic admissions policy that evaluates students based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements. SAT and ACT scores are optional but can enhance applications for competitive programs and scholarships.

Requirement

Details

Application Platform

SUNY Application or Common App

SAT Scores

Optional (Middle 50%: 1070–1240) Approximately

ACT Scores

Optional (Middle 50%: 21–26) Approximately

GPA

Minimum 3.0 recommended

Application Fee

$50

Additional Requirements

Letters of Recommendation, Essay

Attempt SAT Practice Test Online to Improve Your SAT Score! 

Cortland University SAT Requirements

Submitting Cortland University SAT scores is optional at Cortland University. However, providing strong scores can make your application more competitive. Students who submit SAT scores typically fall within a range of 1070–1240*, with balanced performance in Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW).

Cortland University SAT Score Distribution

The score distribution for Cortland University is reflective of the academic standards of the students admitted. Generally, successful applicants submit competitive Cortland University SAT Scores that indicate preparedness for the academic programs offered at the university. Therefore, these scores help potential students measure their performance in comparison to what the university requires.

Cortland University Schools That Use SAT Scores

Several schools and programs at Cortland University consider SAT scores as part of their admissions process, especially those with competitive entry requirements. These include:

  • School of Education
  • School of Arts and Sciences
  • School of Professional Studies

Also Read About ACT to SAT Conversion Here!

Cortland University ACT Requirements

ACT scores are another optional component for admission apart from the Cortland University SAT Scores. Most students submitting ACT scores fall within the range of 22–27*, which aligns with national averages for selective institutions.

Cortland University ACT Score Distribution

Cortland University uses ACT scores as one of the factors in making admissions decisions. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 22 and 27 on the composite ACT. This range balances being prepared academically for college-level courses with showing potential for success. Students are not required to submit ACT scores, but competitive scores in this range make an application stronger, especially when applying for scholarships or entrance into selective programs.

Section

Average

English

21–25

Math

20–25

Composite

22–27

Also Read: How to Reschedule the SAT?

Cortland University GPA Requirements

Academic consistency is a crucial factor in Cortland University's admissions process apart from the Cortland University SAT Scores. Applicants with an approximate GPA of 3.0* or higher have a competitive edge, but the university considers applications holistically, so lower GPAs may be balanced with strong extracurriculars or test scores.

GPA Ranges for Admitted Students

Cortland University values academic consistency and excellence, meaning that GPA is an important criterion in its admissions process. The majority of admitted students have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, which shows that they have a strong academic readiness to perform well in college-level work. Although the university considers applicants holistically, students with GPAs over this threshold tend to be more competitive in the admissions process, showing their ability to succeed in rigorous academic programs.

GPA Range

Percentage of Admitted Students

3.5+

30%

3.0–3.49

40%

2.5–2.99

20%

2.0–2.49

10%

Cortland University Acceptance Rate

Cortland University has an acceptance rate of 60%, reflecting its moderately selective admissions process. This ensures a balance between accessibility and maintaining academic standards. The Cortland University admissions rate is as follows:

Particulars

Details

Acceptance Rate

60%

Total Applicants

~11,000*

Enrolled Students

~3500*

Conclusion

Cortland University provides a nurturing academic environment with moderate selectivity. Although Cortland University SAT Scores and ACT scores are optional, submitting them can enhance your application, especially for competitive programs and scholarships. Maintaining a strong GPA and crafting a well-rounded application with extracurricular achievements and personal statements will maximize your chances of success.

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

College Name

ACT Score

SAT Score

Clark Atlanta University

17–20*

860–1053*

Keiser University

15–21*

Not available*

Barry University

16–20*

860–1062*

Texas Southern University

15–19*

820–980*

Tennessee State University

16–21*

890–1080*

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT

University

ACT Score

SAT Score

University of Arizona

21–28*

1110–1290*

Sam Houston State University Admissions

19–25*

950–1130*

Oakland University Admissions

20–27*

900–1150*

University Of North Florida Admissions

20–26*

1010–1200*

Wayne State University Admissions

21–27*

940–1200*

Kean University Admissions

16–25*

910–1150*

Eastern Michigan University Admissions

18–26*

910–1150*

Lamar University Admissions

18–24*

910–1120*

Radford University Admissions

19–26*

950–1150*

Grand Valley State University Admissions

21–28*

950–1180*

Central Connecticut State University Admissions

16–27*

925–1140*

Cortland University SAT Scores FAQs

No, Cortland University has a test-optional policy. Applicants can choose whether to submit SAT scores.

The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1070–1240* approximately on the SAT.

SAT scores may enhance applications to competitive programs, but they are not mandatory.

Yes, strong SAT scores can make you eligible for merit-based scholarships.

Yes, the university evaluates both sections equally when submitted.

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