When you think of colleges in New York, schools like Columbia and Cornell probably come to mind—prestigious, competitive, and tough to get into. But the Empire State is also home to plenty of great schools with much higher acceptance rates. These colleges can give you a solid education while saving you time and money, whether you’re looking to graduate early or transfer to a more competitive university down the line.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the top colleges in New York with high acceptance rates, helping you find the right fit for your academic journey.
- What Are the Best Colleges in NY with High Acceptance Rates?
- Tips for Applying to New York Colleges with High Acceptance Rates
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
What Are the Best Colleges in NY with High Acceptance Rates?
Looking for a great college in New York without the stress of ultra-competitive admissions? You’re in luck! While NY is known for its elite schools, there are plenty of excellent colleges with high acceptance rates that still offer quality education, strong programs, and great opportunities. Let’s dive into the best colleges in New York with high acceptance rates:
1. College of Staten Island (CSI CUNY)
Acceptance rate: 100%
Average tuition cost: $7,489 (in-state)
If you’re looking for an affordable, well-rounded education in New York City, the College of Staten Island (CSI) is a great choice. As part of the CUNY system, CSI offers a strong academic foundation without the hefty price tag of private universities. The campus gives you the best of both worlds—peaceful green spaces and easy access to Manhattan.
Popular programs include business, engineering, nursing, and psychology, making it a solid pick for a variety of career paths. Plus, if you’re interested in research, CSI is home to a high-tech Dolphin Cove residence and advanced science facilities. Notable alumni include Ellen Pompeo, best known for her role as Meredith Grey on Grey’s Anatomy.
2. Empire State University
Acceptance rate: 100%
Average tuition cost: $11,469 (in-state)
Want a college experience that’s as flexible as your schedule? Empire State University (formerly SUNY Empire State College) is designed for working professionals, adult learners, and students who need an education that fits their lives. With a self-directed learning model and online and hybrid courses, you get the freedom to study at your own pace. Programs in business, education, and healthcare administration are among the most popular.
What’s even cooler? Empire State’s individualized degree programs let you customize your education to match your career goals. The school’s alumni network includes notable figures like Billy Joel, the legendary musician who took courses there before skyrocketing to fame.
3. Excelsior University
Acceptance rate: 100%
Average tuition cost: $12,240
If you need a college that truly understands flexibility, Excelsior University is the way to go. Known for its transfer-friendly policies, Excelsior caters to adult learners, military personnel, and those looking to complete their degrees after a break. The school specializes in nursing, cybersecurity, and business, making it an ideal choice for career advancement.
One of the standout features? Excelsior allows you to earn credit through exams, prior work experience, and military training—so you can fast-track your degree. The university has produced impressive alumni, including Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell IV, a distinguished military leader.
4. St. Francis College
Acceptance rate: 100%
Average tuition cost: $18,602
Looking for a small college with a big heart? St. Francis College (SFC) in Brooklyn might be your perfect match. This tight-knit school is known for its supportive community and strong emphasis on Franciscan values, like compassion and service. It’s a great choice if you want a more personal learning experience while still being in the heart of NYC.
SFC excels in programs like business, health sciences, and criminal justice, and it’s especially welcoming to first-generation college students. SFC also has a long-standing tradition of athletic excellence, with its Terriers basketball team making waves in the NCAA. Notable alumni include Peter T. King, the former U.S. Congressman.
5. Hilbert College
Acceptance rate: 98%
Average tuition cost: $17,195
If you want a college where you won’t get lost in the crowd, Hilbert College in Hamburg, NY, is a fantastic choice. With small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, you’ll get plenty of personal attention from professors. The college is known for its criminal justice, forensic science, and cybersecurity programs, making it a great pick if you’re interested in law enforcement or tech security.
As a Franciscan college, Hilbert emphasizes community service and ethical leadership, so you’ll graduate with a sense of purpose. And if you love sports, Hilbert’s Hawks teams compete in Division III athletics. Notable alumni include Ann Bilsky, a former New York State Supreme Court justice.
6. Keuka College
Acceptance rate: 94%
Average tuition cost: $39,332
If you’re looking for a college that integrates hands-on learning with a beautiful lakeside setting, Keuka College might be your perfect match. Located on Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region, this small but mighty school is all about experiential learning. Every student participates in Field Period, a signature internship program that gives you real-world experience starting freshman year.
It’s a great place to study occupational therapy, education, social work, and business—fields where hands-on experience makes all the difference. Keuka’s alumni network includes Robert L. Wood, former president of Chevrolet. Plus, with a tight-knit community and a stunning campus, you’ll feel right at home from day one.
7. Houghton University
Acceptance rate: 93%
Average tuition cost: $19,866
At Houghton University, education is about faith, character, and purpose. This Christian liberal arts college in Western New York offers a supportive, values-driven environment where you can grow intellectually and spiritually. Houghton is known for strong programs in business, biology, and equestrian studies (yes, you can study horses here!). It also has a unique Honors Program that allows students to dive deep into interdisciplinary studies.
Plus, if you love adventure, Houghton’s Wilderness Program lets you explore the great outdoors while earning college credit. Famous alumni include Wayne Schmidt, a bestselling Christian author and leader in faith-based education.
8. Culinary Institute of America
Acceptance rate: 92%
Average tuition cost: $18,450
If food is your passion, there’s no better place to study than the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). This world-renowned culinary school in Hyde Park, NY, has trained some of the biggest names in the food industry. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a chef, food critic, or restaurant owner, CIA’s programs in culinary arts, baking & pastry, and hospitality management give you the skills to succeed.
You’ll train in state-of-the-art kitchens, learn from top chefs, and even work in on-campus restaurants open to the public. CIA’s alumni list reads like a who’s who of the food world: Anthony Bourdain, Grant Achatz, and Cat Cora. If you love food, this is where your journey begins.
9. Iona University
Acceptance rate: 91%
Average tuition cost: $47,260
Want a college that gives you big-city opportunities without being right in the middle of the hustle? Iona University, located just outside New York City in New Rochelle, offers the best of both worlds. Known for its business, media & communications, and psychology programs, Iona provides plenty of internship opportunities thanks to its proximity to Manhattan.
The school has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with its Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation helping students launch startups while still in college. And if you love sports, you’ll be cheering on the Iona Gaels, a competitive Division I athletics program. Famous alumni? How about Don McLean, the legendary singer-songwriter behind American Pie?
10. Long Island University
Acceptance rate: 90%
Average tuition cost: $40,248
If you want options, Long Island University (LIU) has them—whether you prefer the urban energy of LIU Brooklyn or the scenic, suburban feel of LIU Post in Brookville. LIU is known for strong programs in pharmacy, journalism, business, and health sciences, making it a great choice if you’re aiming for a career in healthcare or media.
The LIU Brooklyn campus is home to one of the oldest pharmacy schools in the country, while LIU Post offers beautiful green spaces and a tight-knit campus community. Plus, if you love entertainment, LIU has its own George Polk Awards in Journalism and a connection to the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. Notable alumni include Patricia Welch, a Broadway singer, and John Franco, a former MLB pitcher.
Tips for Applying to New York Colleges with High Acceptance Rates
Applying to colleges in New York with high acceptance rates can be a great way to keep your options open while still getting a quality education. But just because these schools are easier to get into doesn’t mean you should take the application process lightly! To boost your chances and find the best fit for you, here are five key tips to keep in mind:
1. Don’t skip the application requirements.
Just because a school has a high acceptance rate doesn’t mean you can slack off on the application. Make sure you meet all the requirements—like transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements. Some colleges in New York with high acceptance rates may have rolling admissions, so applying early could give you a better chance of securing your spot.
2. Highlight your strengths (even if your GPA isn’t perfect).
Not every student has a perfect GPA, and that’s okay! Many of these schools look beyond grades and focus on your unique skills, experiences, and goals. Whether it’s volunteer work, leadership roles, or a strong personal statement, make sure your application showcases what makes you a great fit for the school.
3. Explore scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
A higher acceptance rate doesn’t mean you have to pay full price. Many colleges in New York with high acceptance rates offer scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help you cut down costs. Check their financial aid pages and apply for any funding you qualify for—it can make a huge difference!
4. Visit the campus (or take a virtual tour!).
Even if a school is easier to get into, you still want to make sure it’s the right fit for you. If possible, visit the campus, talk to students, and get a feel for the environment. If you can’t visit in person, many schools offer virtual tours and online Q&A sessions with admissions officers.
5. Keep your options open.
It’s always a good idea to apply to a few different schools. Even with colleges in New York with high acceptance rates, each one has its own unique vibe, programs, and opportunities. By applying to multiple schools, you’ll have more choices and a better chance of finding the perfect place to start your college journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a high acceptance rate mean for college admissions?
A high acceptance rate means that a college admits a large percentage of applicants, making it easier to get accepted compared to more selective schools. Typically, schools with acceptance rates above 50-60% are considered to have high acceptance rates.
2. What is the average acceptance rate for colleges in the US?
The average acceptance rate for public colleges is 78% while for private institutions, it’s at 70%.
3. Are high acceptance rate colleges easier?
Yes, colleges with high acceptance rates are generally easier to get into compared to highly selective schools.
But when it comes to educational quality—not at all! Many colleges in New York with high acceptance rates still offer strong academic programs, great faculty, and valuable career opportunities. The key is finding a school that fits your goals, learning style, and desired career path.
Takeaways
- Finding the right college doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when you have plenty of great options! These colleges in New York with high acceptance rates like Empire State University, St. Francis College, and Hilbert College offer strong academic programs, exciting career opportunities, and a chance to earn a degree without the pressure of ultra-competitive admissions.
- Whether you’re looking for hands-on learning, a faith-based education, or a career-focused program, there’s a school on this list that could be the perfect fit for you.
- Still unsure about where to apply or how to strengthen your application? AdmissionSight is here to help! With expert guidance on everything from college selection and application strategies to essay coaching and interview prep, we’ll make sure you put your best foot forward.
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