About NYSACAC


What is NYSACAC?

The New York State Association for College Admission Counseling (NYSACAC) is the state affiliate of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the only professional association composed of members from secondary schools, community-based organizations, colleges and universities. NYSACAC welcomes members who are involved in assisting students in the transition into their post-secondary education.

NYSACAC - with its 2000+ members - is a powerful professional resource. In addition to gaining access to professional development opportunities, members join a unique community of admissions and counseling professionals working together towards the common goal of helping students achieve post-secondary success.

NYSACAC Vision Statement

NYSACAC is at the forefront of creating leadership and professional development opportunities in college admission counseling.

NYSACAC Mission Statement

The NYSACAC mission outlines our commitment to the students and professionals of New York. NYSACAC is committed to:

  • Service the students and families in the transition to post-secondary education.
  • Develop, strengthen and support the professionalism of those who provide the information and counseling.
  • Promote access and equity in post-secondary education.
  • Provide leadership through participation in the development of NACAC policies and practices.
  • Promote high professional standards that foster ethical and social responsibilities.

Why Become a Member?

Members enjoy the benefits of affiliation, and being part of the preeminent counseling association in New York State. Membership offers access to a network of colleagues who serve as resources and allies. Members can volunteer and become leaders in some of the NYSACAC-sponsored events listed below.

Members participate in professional development opportunities such as the Annual Conference, Coming Together Conference, Summer Institute, Winter Institute, Regional Forums, and the NYS Legislative Advocacy Day. NYSACAC aims to offer programs exploring timely topics for high school, CBO, and college admission counselors.

  • The Annual Conference is one of the largest ACAC events in the country, consistently drawing more than 500 participants. The three day event is the highlight of NYSACAC's professional development programming every year.
  • In 2020, NYSACAC held its first virtual annual conference with over 1100 participants, but has since returned to in-person events in 2022 (Utica University) and 2023 (St. Bonaventure University. 
  • The Coming Together Conference, held annually immediately prior to the Annual Conference, provides workshops and programming specifically targeted to professionals working with underserved students throughout New York State.
  • NYSACAC coordinates a series of one-day Regional Forums each spring on college and university campuses throughout the state. Panelists, presenters, and participants engage in discussion on timely, relevant topics to the college admission profession.
  • NYSACAC participates in the annual Legislative Advocacy Day in Albany to advocate on behalf of New York's students and institutions. Members also participate in NACAC's Legislative Forum in Washington, D.C.
  • Summer Institute and Winter Institute offer intensive learning programs for new admissions and counseling professionals.
  • Members are eligible to apply for NYSACAC-sponsored scholarships to the Annual Conference, Coming Together Conference, and the Summer Institute.
  • Members receive the NYSACAC newsletter three times per year, in addition to frequent communications via email and social media. NYSACAC assists its members in staying apprised of trends, events and issues in the profession.
  • Members have access to information through the "members only" section of the NYSACAC web site.
  • Members are eligible to serve on committees, run for elected positions, and have access to networking opportunities virtually and throughout the state.

Working for Students and Families

  • NYSACAC works with NACAC to organize National College Fairs each year. Host sites include Buffalo, Long Island, New York City, and Rochester with more than 40,000 students attending annually.
  • NYSACAC sponsors regional college fairs in the fall and spring. 
  • NYSACAC sponsors Camp College programs each summer. This college preparatory program offers underrepresented students from across the state the opportunity to have a college preparatory, interactive experience over a weekend on a host college campus. NYSACAC members serve as mentors to provide the student with information regarding the college admissions process and financial aid.