The Student Association is fully funded by the undergraduate Mandatory Student Activity Fee. This is the only fee on campus that is voted on, approved, managed, and spent by undergraduate students, for undergraduate students. SA receives no money from tuition or broad-based fees. 100% of the Mandatory Student Activity Fee goes to the SA budget, which funds clubs, events, services, advocacy, and student government.

The mandatory fee funds all 150+ SA-recognized undergraduate clubs so they can host events, participate in competitions, and so much more. Explore our clubs here; there's something for everyone! The mandatory fee also ensures that all undergraduate students can continue to enjoy everything from our biggest events like Homecoming Carnival and International Fiesta to our smaller programs like weekend trips to Canada and crafts. Follow us on Instagram @ub_sa so you don't miss a thing! The mandatory fee even gives undergrads access to things like free AMC movie tickets and kayaking on Lake Lasalle, plus discounted tickets to things like Bills games and Shea's shows. The mandatory fee also provides students with vital free services like legal consultations, tutoring, menstrual products around the Student Union, and the Blue Table Food Pantry.

The Referendum is a vote that occurs every two years and ultimately decides whether to fund the SA's budget or not for the next two years. During the Referendum, undergraduates can vote for a Mandatory Fee or a Voluntary Fee. Unfortunately, the wording of the question, which is required by SUNY, presents a confusing choice because there is no mechanism to collect voluntary fees with tuition bills. The real choice is to fund SA and SA clubs (with a Mandatory Fee) or defund SA and SA clubs (with a voluntary fee).

The next Referendum will be in the Fall of 2026.