Founded in 1858 by Nicholas Devereux and the Franciscan friars, St. Bonaventure University is a Catholic, Franciscan institution in the Southern Tier of New York. It is recognized as a regional leader in undergraduate education, with strong reputations in journalism and mass communication through the Jandoli School, as well as business, education, and health sciences. The university emphasizes Franciscan values of service, community, and care for the individual.
The campus sits in the town of Allegany near Olean, nestled in the Allegheny foothills, offering a close-knit residential community where most students live on campus. Small classes, accessible faculty, and a strong alumni network define the student experience. Bonnies athletics, particularly Division I basketball in the Atlantic 10, energize campus life, and the Reilly Center is a focal point for community events. The university also hosts the Franciscan Institute and the Friedsam Memorial Library's notable special collections, including Thomas Merton archives.
| Type | Private |
| Location | St. Bonaventure, New York |
| Founded | 1858 |
| Total students | 2,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 13:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 83% |
| Graduation rate | 72% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
| In-state tuition | $41,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $41,000 |
| Room & board | $14,500 |
| Average financial aid | $30,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 99% |
| SAT range | 1030-1230 |
| ACT range | 22-28 |
| Average GPA | 3.5 |
| Regular deadline | March 1 |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.