Siena uses holistic review. We look for a rigorous 4-year high school program and typically an 85+ (B) average. Test scores are optional for most applicants. Required materials and step-by-step instructions are below.
Who we admit (what we look for)
- Academic performance: strong grades, typically 85+ (B or higher) in a 4-year college-prep curriculum
- Course rigor: honors/AP/IB/dual-enrollment when available
- Involvement & context: activities, work, leadership, service, talents, life context
What to submit (first-year applicants)
- Application: Common App or Siena’s free Express Application
- Official high school transcript
- Essay (Common App personal statement or Siena prompt) recommended
- One recommendation (school counselor or teacher) recommended
- Test scores (optional): submit SAT/ACT only if you want them considered
Test-optional policy
You can apply without SAT/ACT scores if you meet the coursework below. If you choose to send scores and they help you, we’ll consider them; if not, there’s no disadvantage.
Baseline for test-optional review
- 19 academic units on your high school transcript (1 unit = one full year course).
- A common way to reach 19 is: 4 years of English, 4 math, 4 science, 4 history/social studies, and 3 years of a world (foreign) language.
- Other combinations that total 19 units are acceptable. Each application is reviewed individually.
By intended major
- Science majors (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Health Sciences): To be test-optional, your transcript must show 4 years of math and 4 years of science. If you don’t meet this pattern, send SAT/ACT scores or email admissions@siena.edu
Business majors (e.g., Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management):
To be test-optional, your transcript must show at least 3 years of math. If you don’t meet this pattern, send SAT/ACT scores or email admissions@siena.edu
Programs that require test scores
Applicants to certain linked/accelerated programs must submit SAT/ACT scores, including:
- Albany Medical College program
- Albany Law School 3+2 and 4+3 programs
Application process
- Choose your application → Common App or Siena’s Express Application (free).
- Send your transcript → ask your school to send an official transcript.
- Write your essay → submit your Common App essay or Siena prompt.
- Add a recommendation (recommended) → counselor or teacher.
- Decide on testing → skip SAT/ACT or send scores if you want them reviewed.
- Submit & track your status → use your application portal to see what’s missing.
- Get your decision → we release decisions soon after your file is complete in your portal.
- Next steps if admitted → review your merit scholarship, submit a FAFSA to see if you qualify for additional aid, visit, and reserve your spot by submitting a $500 enrollment deposit.
Plans & timelines
- Early Action (non-binding)
- Early Decision (binding)
- Regular Decision
See our Deadlines page for current dates and details.
Credit for prior learning
AP / IB / Dual-enrollment / College courses may earn credit or placement per Siena’s equivalency and transfer policies.
Transfer applicants
- Competitive transfer applicants typically present a strong college GPA and good standing.
- Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended (and final HS/GED if requested).
- Credit is evaluated by program under Siena’s transfer policies.
More Info For Transfer Students
International applicants
- Submit the application, official transcripts (with certified English translation/evaluation if needed), essay, and recommendation.
- Provide English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo or approved equivalent) if your native language or instruction is not English.
- See International Admissions for current score thresholds and document requirements.
More Info for International Student Applicants
Special programs
Certain programs like the Albany Medical College Program and Higher Education Opportunity Program may require additional materials or have different criteria.
Fast FAQs
- Do I need SAT or ACT scores to apply?
No. Siena is test-optional for most applicants. Send scores only if you want them considered. - What GPA do you look for?
Holistic review with a typical expectation of an 85+ (B) average in a 4-year college-prep curriculum. - What materials are required?
Application (Common App or Siena’s free Express App), official transcript, essay (recommended), and one recommendation (recommended). Test scores are optional for most. - When will I hear back?
Decisions are released soon after your file is complete.