What are the disadvantages of Stony Brook University?

Disadvantages of Stony Brook University often cited include large introductory class sizes (especially in STEM), making professor interaction difficult, a potentially weak social scene (especially on weekends or without a car), mediocre campus food, bureaucratic administration, and feeling isolated due to its location, though strong academics in sciences, research, and affordability are noted as pros.

What is the reputation of Stony Brook University?

In the 2026 edition of Best Colleges, Stony Brook University—SUNY is ranked No. #59 in National Universities. It's also ranked No. #13 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.

What is the crime rate at Stony Brook University?

SUNY Stony Brook Overall Crime Stats

Based on a student body population of 26,814, that's 14.88 incidents per 1,000 students. The table below gives the number of incidents by category, and for comparision, also states the max number of incidents reported by any school in our analysis.

How is student life at Stony Brook?

Living on campus puts you at the center of everything Stony Brook has to offer — outstanding academic programs, a thriving research environment, clubs and activities for almost any interest, and a dynamic first-year experience in one of six small Undergraduate Communities.

Is it impressive to get into Stony Brook?

The acceptance rate at Stony Brook is 49%.

For every 100 applicants, 49 are admitted. This means the school is moderately selective. The school expects you to meet their requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but they're more flexible than other schools.

my experience at stony brook university

What is the #1 hardest school to get into?

There isn't one single #1 hardest school, as it changes slightly by year and criteria, but Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, and Caltech consistently rank among the top with extremely low acceptance rates (often 3-4%) and intense competition for spots, though other top global universities like Oxford and Tsinghua are also incredibly selective. Harvard is frequently cited as the hardest due to its high volume of applications and focus on global leadership potential, while Caltech is known for its extreme difficulty in STEM. 

What major is Stony Brook best for?

Most popular undergraduate majors:

• Biology.
• Psychology.
• Business Management.
• Computer Science.
• Health Science.
• Economics.
• Applied Mathematics and Statistics.

Why is Stony Brook so popular?

Stony Brook University's popularity stems from being New York's #1 public university, offering top-tier STEM programs (CS, Engineering, Health Sciences), world-class faculty (Nobel laureates), high research output (AAU member, co-manages Brookhaven Lab), strong career outcomes (high employment/grad school rates), affordability, proximity to NYC for internships, and being a leading engine for social mobility, attracting diverse, talented students seeking accessible, transformative education. 

Which SUNY is most prestigious?

The most prestigious SUNY schools are generally considered the flagship research universities: Binghamton University, Stony Brook University, and the University at Buffalo, often praised for rigorous academics, strong research, and high rankings, with Binghamton frequently topping recent lists as the top SUNY in national rankings like Forbes and U.S. News, though the "best" often depends on a student's major (e.g., Stony Brook for STEM, ESF for Environment).
 

Is Stony Brook a wealthy town?

Yes, Stony Brook is generally considered an affluent and wealthy area, characterized by high median household incomes, expensive housing, and a high cost of living, driven partly by its proximity to Stony Brook University and its desirable suburban lifestyle with highly-rated schools and low crime. While it offers economic mobility for some, the overall economic profile is well above national and state averages, with high property values and significant professional incomes.
 

What is the safest campus in America?

Washington State University (Pullman, Washington)

With only seven campus arrests, Washington State is, by far, one of the top safest colleges in the United States. It rests a few hours away from Seattle and is safely in Pullman, WA. Out of a student body that makes up 31,478, only 771 people reported violent crimes.

Where do most Stony Brook students live?

At this school, 52% of the students live in college-owned, -operated or -affiliated housing and 48% of students live off campus.

What is the racial makeup of Stony Brook University?

The 5 largest ethnic groups in Stony Brook University, NY are Asian (Non-Hispanic) (47.1%), White (Non-Hispanic) (30.8%), Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) (7.52%), Black or African American (Hispanic) (2.91%), and White (Hispanic) (2.78%).

Is Stony Brook an elite school?

Yes, Stony Brook University (SBU) is considered prestigious, especially as a public university, recognized for its strong research, high rankings (often #1 SUNY, top 60 national), AAU membership, and good value, making it a reputable institution for strong academics and STEM fields. 

What is the top 5 medical school in the US?

Top 25 Best Medical Schools

1. Harvard University. ...
2. Johns Hopkins University. ...
3. University of Pennsylvania. ...
4. Columbia University. ...
5. Duke University. ...
6. Stanford University. ...
7. University of California—San Francisco. ...
8. Vanderbilt University.

Is Stony Brook a dry campus?

No, Stony Brook University is not strictly a "dry campus" (meaning zero alcohol allowed), but it has strict rules: alcohol is allowed for those 21+ in residences with limits (beer, wine, spirits per person) and in shared spaces if everyone is 21+, but generally prohibited in other areas like classrooms or parking lots without special permits, emphasizing responsible consumption and offering amnesty for medical emergencies.
 

What's the hardest SUNY to get into?

The hardest SUNY to get into is generally considered Binghamton University, often followed closely by Stony Brook University, both known for lower acceptance rates and rigorous academics compared to other SUNY campuses, with Binghamton often cited as the most selective at around 38-43% acceptance, making it the top choice for competitive admissions within the system. Stony Brook is also a strong contender, particularly in STEM fields, while Buffalo is often seen as the third most selective. 

What is the most beautiful SUNY campus?

SUNY Geneseo

These include a 1938 campus carillon, an arboretum, a clock tower and others. The college is known for its beautiful westward-looking views.

Which SUNY schools are in financial trouble?

Yes, several SUNY schools, particularly upstate ones like ESF, Fredonia, Potsdam, and Buffalo State, face significant financial troubles, including budget deficits, job cuts, and program reductions, driven by declining enrollment, underfunding, and inflation, though some campuses are seeing enrollment growth and increased state aid. SUNY-wide, reports indicate a potential multi-billion dollar long-term shortfall without increased state investment, with some campus cuts described as "stability plans" to address structural deficits. 

What famous person went to Stony Brook University?

Stony Brook University has notable alumni in entertainment like singer Pat Benatar, actress Diane Farr, and actor Adrien Brody, plus comedians Colin Quinn and the Verizon pitchman Paul Marcarelli, along with sports figures like Hakeem Nicks, and media personalities such as Jim Cramer, showing a range of successful graduates across various fields. 

Is Stony Brook worth it?

With prestigious rankings and international recognition, Stony Brook is invested in providing an undergraduate education that will be a solid foundation for your future success. Our University was ranked in the Top 15 of Best Value Public Colleges by Forbes Magazine.

What are the big 4 SUNY schools?

The top SUNY schools, often referred to as the "Big Four" or "University Centers," consistently ranked highest are Stony Brook University, Binghamton University, the University at Buffalo, and the University at Albany, known for strong academics, research, and value, though the "best" depends on your specific major, with other strong contenders like SUNY Geneseo (honors focus) or SUNY ESF (environmental) also highly regarded. 

What is the #1 suny?

There isn't one single "#1" SUNY school, as rankings vary by program and publication, but Binghamton University, Stony Brook University, and the University at Buffalo are consistently top-ranked as research centers (University Centers), with Binghamton often cited first for overall value/rankings by outlets like Forbes/WSJ, Stony Brook as a leading research/science powerhouse, and UB strong in health/tech, while SUNY Geneseo and FIT are noted for specific strengths. 

Are there dorms at Stony Brook?

Residence Halls

Students indicating they will live on campus will be placed in one of Stony Brook's 8 residence communities. Incoming first year students living on campus and anyone living in a residence hall without cook facilities are also required to purchase a Stony Brook Meal Plan.