
Hempstead, NYprivate nonprofitwww.hofstra.edu/
Hofstra University is a private Long Island institution with a suburban 240-acre campus that punches above its weight in business and health professions programs. Known for its lush grounds and proximity to NYC, Hofstra attracts a moderately selective, regionally diverse student body (36% out-of-state) with a 68% acceptance rate and mid-range SAT scores of 1260–1390. The university stands out for its strong career outcomes in fields like business and engineering, where graduates report median salaries of $59,000–$120K.
Hofstra maintains a 68% acceptance rate (sources vary between 68-72.67%), making it moderately selective among private universities. For Fall 2026 admissions, the mid-range SAT scores were 1270-1450 (CR+M) and ACT scores 28-33, with 36% of students coming from outside New York. The university received 25,021 applications in recent cycles, with about two-thirds admitted. Notably, Hofstra is Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight.—SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required—and emphasizes high school GPA in admissions decisions. The application fee is $70, and the student body includes 3% international students and 31% out-of-state enrollees.
Hofstra offers six undergraduate degrees (BA, BBA, BE, BFA, BS, BSEd) across 38 accredited programs, with business and health professions dominating enrollment. The Zarb School of Business and health-related programs are particularly strong, with engineering graduates reporting a 91% career outcomes rate and median salaries of $59,000. Popular majors include:
The university holds 41 total accreditations, and its 240-acre campus facilitates a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, though specific figures on class sizes are unavailable in sources.
Life at Hofstra revolves around its suburban 240-acre campus, described as 'beautiful' by students, though social opportunities require initiative. Only 38% of students live on campus, with the majority commuting or living off-campus. Key aspects:
Proximity to NYC (40 minutes by train) allows for internships and cultural access, but the vibe is self-contained rather than urban.
Hofstra’s 67% six-year graduation rate exceeds the national average (59%), with strong earnings trajectories, especially in business and engineering. Key data:
The university outperforms peers in net tuition revenue per student (94th percentile) and faculty salary rankings (100th percentile), suggesting robust institutional investment.
Hofstra’s sticker price is high, but 66% of students receive aid, reducing the average Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $35,036–$47,894. Key figures:
While tuition is steep, the university emphasizes affordability through Merit aidScholarship money awarded for achievements like grades, talents, or test scores — not based on your family's financial need., with business and engineering programs justifying costs via strong ROI.
Hofstra’s proximity to NYC and career-focused programs in business, health, and engineering make it a pragmatic choice for students seeking urban access without an urban campus. The Zarb School’s $120K graduate salaries and 91% engineering job placement validate its professional focus, while the 67% graduation rate (above national average) reflects strong student support. Less a 'college town' than a suburban launchpad, Hofstra rewards students who leverage its resources—like the 240-acre campus and 38 academic accreditations—to build career momentum.