Admission to the graduate programs is selective. Criteria for admission include:

• possession of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution,
• your educational objectives are aligned with the particular graduate program,
• evidence of your preparation to pursue the subject matter and the ability to meet the academic demands of the program
• completion of any prerequisites.

• submit a completed application to the Empire State College graduate program,
• pay the non-refundable application/orientation fee.

• Empire State College admits students without regard to race, gender, disability religion or national origin.
• Applicants must complete the admissions process within one year of the initial application date.
• Applications must be completed and submitted by the published deadline in order to be considered for admission to an upcoming term. All graduate programs are term based. Students may begin three of the M.A. degrees or the M.B.A. program in either the fall or spring terms. Applicants for the M.A. in Teaching are only admitted in the fall term.
• The dean of the Center for Graduate Programs, upon the recommendation of the graduate faculty, makes the final decision regarding admission.
• Admitted applicants may enroll initially in the graduate program within three calendar years from the date of their admission. Those who wish to initiate enrollment after this time must reapply for admission.
• Matriculating students who want to continue their studies but have not been enrolled for a period of three years from the date of their last enrollment must reapply for admission.
• An applicant who is denied admission may apply again (to any Empire State College graduate program) after a period of one year from the prior date of application.