Yes. SUNYMEU is a project of the Institute for European Union Studies at SUNY, which includes affordable programming in its mission statement. The IEUSS writes grants and engages in other fundraising activities to lower the conference fee. We expect the 2026 conference fee to be $50/participant. More information will be available by August 2025.
The conference fee covers opening ceremony (dinner), two lunches, coffee service throughout Saturday and Sunday, breakfast items Saturday and Sunday, and a reception/photography session with refreshments prior to the closing ceremony. Each student receives a certificate of completion.
For students participating from out-of-town, the City of Buffalo offers affordable lodging options. Revisit this site for information for hotel recommendations, which will be posted by August 2025.
Yes. In keeping with SUNYMEU as a student-organized, student-run event, students select the awardees. They vote electronically during Sunday's lunch break. Awards are conferred at the closing ceremony.
- Most effective Member State/European Commission delegation (outstanding, distinguished, superior)
- Best agenda items (outstanding, distinguished, superior)
- Most effective head of government
- Most effective foreign affairs minister
- Most effective finance minister
Here is a sample...
"My interest in the EU grew through these roles, and I got a great sense of how complex and fascinating the EU is. SUNYMEU is a one-of-a-kind experience, especially if you’re into European politics or intergovernmental relations. It’s different from Model UN in that it focuses a lot on cooperation, creating a more collegial atmosphere, similar to the real EU." - Stony Brook University student
“The experience led me to travel across Europe and learn more about the European Union and to make lasting friendships.” - SUNY Buffalo State University
"I acted as foreign minister for our Swedish delegation from JCC. It was the first time I had ever interacted with people from all around the world. So, I got to learn both a bit about how European countries interact in a broad political setting and through casual interactions with my international peers." SUNY JCC
"SUNY MEU is unlike other Model EU conferences I have done because it is totally led by students from agenda proposal to conclusion finalization. It is only as good as the students, and this forces us to work hard in order to make the experience fun. It truly feels like we are running the EU." - Canisius University
"Fantastic experience would recommend you attend this event. Even if you have little knowledge in European Union Studies, resources will be provided, and most people will be in the same spot as you." - CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
"It was an amazing opportunity and I can’t thank you enough for all of your support and dedication." - SUNY Fredonia
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