Admission to Plattsburgh State is competitive and is based primarily on a review of academic credentials. An applicant's entire profile is considered in the admission review. Strength of program and grades are the most important considerations. Freshman applicants should have a college-preparatory program of study in high school with a minimum average of B in academic subjects. Secondary review factors include activities, awards, the essay (required), and a personal interview (optional). Transfer applicants are required to submit official transcripts from all colleges they have attended previously with no more than one semester of course work undocumented at the time of application. A cumulative grade point average is calculated based on all course work. Students with GPAs of 2.3 are considered for admission, however, a higher GPA may be required in certain programs.

Applicants from Canada should apply using the "International Application for Admission". Fall freshman applicants should apply before June 15 of their senior year in high school. Spring applicants (freshman and transfer) should apply by November 1. Transfer applicants for fall should apply after they have completed the previous fall semester so that no more than one semester (spring) is undocumented at the time of admission review.