Binghamton University Scholarships | Merit & Honors Aid Guide

🎓 Binghamton University (SUNY) Scholarships & Financial Aid (2025–2026)

← Back to the Public University Scholarships hubSee New York state aid

What This Page Covers:
  • Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
  • Automatic and competitive merit scholarships
  • Need-based grants and in-state aid (TAP, Excelsior, EOP)
  • Honors, departmental, and alumni-based awards

📊 Admissions Snapshot

  • Selectivity: Highly selective SUNY research campus
  • Testing Policy: Test-optional (SAT/ACT not required)
  • Application Plans: Early Action (Nov 1) • Regular (Jan 15)
  • Honors: Binghamton University Scholars Program

Sources: Binghamton Undergraduate Admissions (testing & deadlines) and Scholars Program.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

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Binghamton University at a Glance

Average Net Price
$21,364
U.S. Dept. of Education — College Scorecard (most recent available)
Automatic Merit
President’s, Provost’s & Dean’s Scholarships
Selected on admission; amounts vary (no separate app)
Typical Qualifiers
Strong GPA & rigor • Holistic review
Tests optional; coursework and achievements carry the most weight
Testing Policy
Test-optional (SAT/ACT not required)
See Binghamton’s Test Policies & Test-Optional FAQs
Key Deadlines
Nov 1: Early Action • Jan 15: Regular
FAFSA priority typically Mar 1; some programs earlier
Honors College
Binghamton University Scholars Program
Selective four-year honors; $3,500 Scholars Award for high-impact learning
Full Tuition / Full Ride
Up to in-state full Cost of Attendance (select awards)
Five first-year students may receive up to full in-state COA; others receive $10,000/year
Residency & Reciprocity
No regional reciprocity (SUNY residency rules)
Nonresidents pay full rate unless qualifying for scholarships or NY residency
Verified from Binghamton University official sources (2025–26).
Last verified: October 15, 2025

Binghamton University is one of the most competitive campuses in the SUNY system — and a strong value for New York residents. Most merit is selective rather than automatic: top applicants may be offered President’s, Provost’s or Dean’s scholarships, and a small number of students are awarded scholarships worth up to the in-state full cost of attendance. Honors students in the Binghamton University Scholars Program receive additional perks, including a $3,500 high-impact learning award.

Binghamton is test-optional (SAT/ACT not required). In-state families can also layer state programs such as TAP and Excelsior. Nonresidents pay the published rate unless they earn institutional scholarships or later establish New York residency.

FAQ

Does Binghamton offer automatic scholarships? Some admission-based awards are offered automatically to top applicants; most funding is competitive and varies by college/major.

What’s the average net price? About $21,364 per year after grants and scholarships (U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard).

Are there full-tuition or full-ride scholarships? A very small number of first-years receive scholarships worth up to the in-state full cost of attendance; additional awards such as $10,000/year are also offered.

What’s Binghamton’s testing policy? Test-optional — SAT/ACT are not required for admission; see the university’s Test Policies and FAQs for details.

Sources: https://www.binghamton.edu/financial-aid/cost.html https://www.binghamton.edu/admissions/undergraduate/cost/scholarships.html https://www.binghamton.edu/admissions/undergraduate/info/test-policy.html https://www.binghamton.edu/admissions/undergraduate/info/test-optional-faqs.html https://www.binghamton.edu/admissions/undergraduate/apply/freshman/ https://www.binghamton.edu/programs/scholars/ https://www.binghamton.edu/student-accounts/residency/whatyouneedtoknow.html https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?196079-SUNY-at-Binghamton

💰 Cost of Attendance at Binghamton University (2025–2026)

Binghamton University remains one of the most affordable top-ranked public research universities in the nation. In-state tuition is low compared to national peers, but out-of-state families pay a much higher sticker price. The figures below reflect the 2025–2026 official cost of attendance for full-time undergraduates.

Category In-State Out-of-State
Tuition & Mandatory Fees $10,567 $32,467
Housing & Meals (on-campus) $19,477 $19,477
Estimated Total (Before Aid) $30,044 $51,944

Note: These totals include tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and meals only. Binghamton’s full financial-aid budget also includes allowances of roughly $1,000 for books, $250 for transportation, and $1,395 for personal expenses.

📉 Average Net Price (after aid): $18,860/year (U.S. Dept. of Education, College Scorecard). This is the typical cost after grants and scholarships for full-time undergraduates. Actual net cost varies by income, residency, and eligibility for state or institutional aid.
🌎 Residency & Reciprocity: Binghamton does not participate in regional reciprocity programs such as WUE, MSEP, ACM, or NEBHE. Nonresidents pay the full published out-of-state rate unless they qualify for institutional scholarships or later gain New York residency.
For New York state aid opportunities (TAP, Excelsior Scholarship, etc.), visit our New York State Aid Guide.
Sources: https://www.binghamton.edu/financial-aid/cost.html https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/suny-at-binghamton/tuition-and-costs https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?196079-SUNY-at-Binghamton https://www.binghamton.edu/student-accounts/online-programs/online-residency/faq.html

✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships

Binghamton does not publish guaranteed merit awards or a merit chart. The small number of top applicants offered automatic aid are typically those with a 3.9+ unweighted GPA, advanced coursework (AP/IB), and, optionally, strong submitted scores. Maximum awards are up to $10,000/year for domestic students and up to full tuition ($30,000) for select international students, but these are highly competitive and reserved for truly exceptional applicants.
Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Binghamton Merit Award (Domestic) Up to $10,000/year Outstand-ing academics (GPA 3.9+), advanced courses; all applicants considered automatically No Yes (maintain GPA and credits; re-awarded each year) Top 5–10% of admitted freshmen, AP/IB/dual credit, often leadership/service Jan 15 (Reg.) / Nov 1 (EA recommended)
Binghamton International Achievement Scholarship Up to full tuition ($30,000/year for some) International admit, high academic standing, English proficiency, leaders/impact No (auto with undergrad app) Yes (if in good standing; often 4 years) International students with very high grades, test scores, or exceptional leadership Jan 15 (FAFSA) / Rolling
Binghamton superscores both SAT and ACT. Submitting scores is optional—average recipients score 1400+ SAT (or 30+ ACT). Top test scores, when paired with a high GPA and AP/IB courses, may boost your chances for the very largest merit awards.

🎓 FAQ: Automatic Scholarships at Binghamton

Does Binghamton award scholarships automatically?
Yes. Top applicants are automatically considered—separate forms are not needed for most Binghamton merit awards. Only about 1 in 10 admitted domestic applicants receives an offer above $5,000/year.
What GPA is usually needed?
Awards mostly go to those above a 3.9 unweighted GPA and a record of AP/IB/dual college courses.
Do test scores matter?
Submitting SAT/ACT is optional; if submitted, Binghamton superscores. Mid-50% of merit recipients is 1400+ SAT or 30–33 ACT, but high GPA and rigor remain most important.

🏆 Competitive Scholarships

These scholarships are not guaranteed and are awarded through a competitive review process. Selection factors include leadership, service, advanced work, and GPA—plus fit with special programs like Honors College. Awards listed are “up to” amounts; most recipients get less, based on overall class strength and funds that year.
Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
President’s Scholarship Up to $15,000/year Top applicants with GPA 3.9+, AP/IB, leadership or service No (automatic on admit) Yes (min GPA and credits required) Honors-level students, often in Honors College or strong EOP, ~top 5% of class Nov 1 (EA), Jan 15 (Reg.)
Provost’s Scholarship Up to $8,000/year High academic (GPA 3.8+), extracurricular record No (automatic on admit) Yes (renewable) Strong admits, not always in Honors, often with service or special talent Nov 1/Jan 15
Scholars $3500 Award $3,500 (one time; sophomore–senior year) Invited Scholars Program; apply for approved travel/research/internship Yes (internal app) No (one time only) Sophomores and up in the Scholars Program with approved project Rolling for Scholars; after first year
Most recipients of the President’s/Provost’s receive $5,000–$10,000—not the max. The Scholars $3500 Award is a one-time grant for study abroad, service, or advanced research after the first year, exclusive to program participants.

🎓 FAQ: Competitive Scholarships at Binghamton

What makes a student “competitive”?
3.8+ GPA, AP/IB/dual credit, leadership, and well-rounded experience. President’s usually goes to invited Honors/Scholars/EOP admits.
Are these tied to the Honors College?
The top President’s is often awarded to Honors or Scholars admits but can go to top EOP or unique admits as well.
Any way to influence the amount?
No—there is no separate application. Higher GPA, advanced work, and leadership/service can boost likelihood or amount, but the process is holistic and awards funds until they run out.
How is the $3,500 Scholars Award used?
For approved research, global/internship experience, or advanced project. Available after year one for invited Scholars in good standing.

💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships

Binghamton offers a number of need-based, identity-based, and support-focused opportunities often missed on main admissions pages. These include EOP grants, ROTC scholarships, and over 400+ department/foundation awards. Most are for students who enroll, apply, and engage actively on campus[web:1161][web:1190][web:1199].

💡 Many smaller awards open after the first term—via the Foundation, research programs, or campus life. Students are encouraged to search these funds each year through Binghamton’s internal scholarship portal or by connecting with their department.
Scholarship Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
EOP Grant (Educational Opportunity Program) Covers unmet financial need (max ~$3,500/yr) NY residents, low income & academic support eligible, first-gen a plus Yes (apply EOP with SUNY/common app) Yes NY students accepted to EOP; priority for low-income and educationally disadvantaged Nov 1/Jan 15 (app cycle)
Foundation & Alumni Awards $500–$3,000 typical; some up to full tuition Specific donor/department requirements (major, GPA, service, etc.) Yes (portal or nomination after enrolling) Some (fund-dependent) Current students, active in academic or campus service roles Feb 1–March 1 (most open annually)
ROTC Scholarships (Army/Air Force) Full tuition + fees, monthly stipend, books Commit to Army/Air ROTC (via Syracuse), meet GPA/fitness/service rules Yes (via ROTC portal, national deadlines) Yes (standards/contract required) Enrolled ROTC students who pass selection, meet academics & contract Oct–March (rolling)
Departmental & Research Stipends Varies: $250–$2,000+/yr Participation in research/mentoring, TAships, academic support, or leadership Yes (apply in term or by faculty nomination) Some stipends repeat Active students in campus or class initiatives, most often after first year Rolling/varies
Stipends from research, leadership, or mentoring aren’t technically scholarships but count as money in your pocket. Check Foundation and department sites yearly after enrollment—most open up in spring.

🎓 Hidden Gem Scholarship FAQ

What is EOP? EOP combines financial support with academic counseling and peer mentorship for NY state residents who qualify by both income and academic disadvantage.
Where do you find these awards? Use Binghamton’s scholarship portal (“AcademicWorks”) and talk with your major department each spring. Many awards only appear after you’ve enrolled.
Are stipends the same as scholarships? Not quite, but they’re real funding. Participate in leadership, mentoring, or research for a shot at $250–$2,000 in paid support each year.
How do ROTC awards work at Binghamton? Army/Air Force ROTC scholarships via Syracuse University are open to Binghamton students—full tuition/fees plus a stipend in exchange for service. Apply early and meet all fitness/service agreements.

🏅 Binghamton University Scholars Program (Honors College)

Binghamton’s Scholars Program is the most selective academic track, open to all majors except undergraduate management. There is no automatic housing or guaranteed full-ride, but students gain academic perks, a supportive cohort, and exclusive opportunities for high-impact learning[web:1182][web:1173].

Honors Track Award Amount Eligibility Separate App? Renewable? Who Actually Wins? Deadline
Scholars Program Entry No special scholarship/tuition guarantee HS GPA 3.85–4.0, high AP/IB or research/leadership, all majors but SOM Invitation; short additional app after admission N/A Top 5–10% of admits, strong essays, interest in research/service[web:1204] After regular admit; invited applicants only
Scholars $3,500 Award $3,500 (one-time; experiential activity) Current Scholars, sophomore year+, good standing (GPA 3.25+) Internal Honors Program app No (one-time grant) Sophomore–senior Scholars planning research, internship, or study abroad[web:1173][web:1160] Rolling after first year in Scholars

✅ What the Scholars Program Does Offer:

  • Priority registration; small Honors seminars; early access to research/mentoring
  • Guaranteed open major first year (if 3.25+ GPA); strong community of high achievers
  • Scholars Award for experiential learning, research, or study abroad ($3,500)
  • Support for graduate/fellowship applications; faculty mentorship
  • President’s Honors or All-University Honors at graduation (3.5+/3.25+ GPA)[web:1180]

🚫 What It Doesn’t Include (Compared to Some Other Honors Colleges):

  • No separate Honors dorm (may live in Newing Community Scholars Learning Community year one)
  • No guaranteed full-ride/automatic tuition scholarships
  • No formal Honors-only social or study abroad programs; must apply for all
  • No special funding for completion; must remain in good standing for awards[web:1182][web:1173]
💡 The selective Scholars Program offers the best advising and research perks in the SUNY system—yet is open to almost all majors. Stay active, maintain a 3.25+ GPA, and use those resources to maximize success.

🎓 FAQ: Binghamton Scholars Program

Is it hard to get into the Scholars program? Yes—most are admitted with a ~3.9+ HS GPA, very strong writing, and research/service track record.
Do you need to apply separately? You’ll get an invitation after you apply to Binghamton—submit short essays and activity information if invited.
Is it just a “resume boost,” or do you get real value? The biggest perks are early registration, research placements, grad/fellowship prep, and the $3,500 high-impact learning award—not automatic tuition money.
Do you really have to keep a high GPA? Yes—GPA of 3.25+ is required to remain in good standing and unlock awards.
Are there Honors graduation distinctions? Yes—3.25+ leaves you eligible for All-University Honors; 3.5+ earns you President’s Honors on transcript at graduation[web:1170][web:1180][web:1182].

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💬 Final Thoughts

Binghamton University has earned its spot as one of the top public universities in the Northeast—and for good reason. It offers rigorous academics, strong research opportunities, and an impressive return on investment for both in-state and out-of-state families. With competitive merit awards and a reputation for academic excellence, Binghamton delivers a flagship-level education at a public price. For families looking for a serious, supportive campus where motivated students thrive, Binghamton is one of the smartest choices in the SUNY system.

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