Get in touch: +1-800-991-0126
Get in touch: +1-800-991-0126
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Considering studying at NYU? Here’s your definitive guide on how to get into NYU. We’ll discuss New York University requirements and what you can do to help your application shine.
Since it was established in 1831, New York University (NYU) continues to be one of the best non-Ivy League colleges in the US. NYU has a QS ranking of #38 globally, and Forbes recently honored 19 NYU alumni in their “30 under 30” list across different industries.
With this level of prestige in mind, it’s no wonder NYU attracts thousands of eager and competitive applicants annually. This article will cover everything you need to know about how to get into NYU and its admission requirements. We’ll walk you through the process so you can confidently navigate your NYU application.
New York University’s acceptance rate is 8%. Despite its large student population, NYU is selective in its admissions. Recent class data shows that NYU received 118,000 applications. Three of NYU’s undergraduate colleges offered admission to fewer than 5% of applicants.
For more info on NYU’s acceptance rate trends, here’s a table outlining the acceptance rates from the past few years:
The NYU early decision acceptance rate is estimated to be around 18%. While this is a higher rate than the overall acceptance rate, it is still very competitive. The 2024 application cycle saw the largest Early Decision applicant pool with over 22,000 students!
Given the institution's prestige, you may be wondering, “how challenging is it to gain admission to NYU?” Considering only 8% of a vast pool of over 100,000 applicants secured a spot at this institution, getting an offer letter will undoubtedly be difficult.
Prospective students must submit meticulously crafted and distinct applications to maximize their chances of being accepted.
Take our interactive quiz below to find out how likely you are to get into NYU.
To put together the best application possible, it can be helpful to know the average stats of recent incoming classes. That way, you can know what benchmarks to aim for. Here are some admission stats from the most recent NYU class.
A 3.7 unweighted GPA is typical for most admitted first-years at NYU. This means you should try to get straight As in all your high school classes!
While there’s no set GPA requirement, most admitted NYU students ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class.
Successful candidates at NYU had an average SAT score of 1520, with the middle 50% ranging from 1470-1570. The average SAT reading and writing scores ranged from 720-770, and math scores ranged from 750-800.
NYU is test-optional and doesn’t set a minimum SAT score requirement. However, if your SAT score is in the higher end of these ranges, we recommend submitting it to strengthen your application and demonstrate your academic prowess.
If you choose to submit SAT scores, you can submit your highest result if you took the test more than once.
New York University’s average ACT score is 34, and the middle 50% range of scores from admitted students is 33 to 35. Similarly to the SAT, the ACT is not required, but if you have a high score, you should submit it for a stronger overall application.
You can submit multiple tests for the ACT, and NYU will create what’s called a “superscore” from the highest scores of each section of all tests you submit. This superscore isn’t an option for the SATs.
NYU evaluates candidates based on their academic qualifications and personal experience. To create a strong application, you should demonstrate intellectual abilities through your GPA and SAT/ACT. You should also write compelling essays, participate in relevant extracurriculars, and gain lots of work experience.
Here’s some more info on how NYU evaluates applications from their Common Data Set:
Getting into New York University is no easy feat! Students are expected to have SAT scores around 1520 or higher or ACT scores around 34. NYU hopefuls should also have high GPAs around 3.7 or above and take advanced courses to demonstrate their academic potential.
Preparation and planning are critical in the application process. Applicants must know what’s expected from them; test scores, extracurricular activities, etc. Remember that NYU technically has three degree-granting campuses. You’ll need to review all their offerings to decide which is the best for you.
Furthermore, the New York campus has 11 schools and colleges. The school/college you apply to depends on your area of study. It would be best to prepare for extra steps required in the application process for your specific school. However, every undergraduate applicant will need first to submit a general application.
Here’s what you’ll need to include:
You should also include extracurricular achievements and work experience. While there aren’t specific NYU extracurricular activities applicants are expected to have, pursuing valuable extracurriculars will strengthen your application. NYU appreciates well-rounded individuals who have actively engaged in activities beyond the classroom.
Having these supplemental activities on your NYU application won’t necessarily make up for low grades, but they can differentiate your profile and help you stand out!
Depending on the school/college you’re applying to, you may also need to submit supporting documentation. For example, the Tisch School of Arts requires applicants to submit an artistic portfolio or audition.
Here are some additional program requirements you should be mindful of at NYU:
Source: Tandon School of Engineering, Stern School of Business, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education & Human Development, and Tisch School of Arts
You’ll need to stay aware of college application deadlines so that you don’t miss any important requirements. Here are some significant dates that you should keep track of when applying to NYU:
The Regular Decision deadline at NYU is January 5. All Reguar Decision applicants will receive their admission notification by April 1. Note that the cutoff time for applications is 11:59 pm in your local time.
Early Decision I applicants at NYU should submit their applications by November 1, and will receive their admissions decision by December 15. However, if you’re applying Early Decision II, you’ll need to submit by January 1 to get a decision by February 15.
Wondering how to make the most of your NYU application? Read on for expert tips to get in!
Early Decision applicants at any college often enjoy higher acceptance rates than their Regular Decision peers, although other factors may explain these data trends. However, you should consider applying through NYU’s early decision program if:
NYU is pretty tight-lipped about its early decision acceptance rate, but data trends indicate it’s likely substantially higher than regular decision. Although many regular decision applicants are admitted each cycle, applying through early decision can show your passion and interest in NYU. Don’t forget about this option!
The chances are that most applicants won’t be invited to interview, meaning you have one shot to “speak” to the admissions committee. Your personal statement is crucial to your success in all college applications, but your supplemental essay is where you can get school-specific.
Although the NYU essay is only 250 words, strive to make each count. Spend ample time brainstorming your story and considering all angles of your experiences and background before writing.
Unfortunately, not all high school resources are created equal. Maybe you’ve been struggling to speak to a guidance counselor or feel you just need a little bit more support as you navigate this new and exciting process. This wouldn’t be unusual since the average counselor-to-student ratio in NYC high schools alone is 1:215.
One surefire way to boost your chances of admission is by partnering up with a talented NYU admissions consultant. These experts can provide a fresh perspective on your application, help you strategically position yourself as the best candidate possible, and more!
Applicants to NYU must submit two college admission essays in the general application. The first is your personal statement, which you’ll submit to every school you apply to. The other is an NYU-specific essay.
This is NYU’s most recent essay prompt, although this may change depending on the application cycle:
We are looking for peacemakers, changemakers, global citizens, boundary breakers, creatives and innovators—choose one quote from the following and let us know why it inspires you; or share a short quote and person not on our list who inspires you, and include why.
You have a 250-word limit to answer this prompt.
Still curious about how to get into NYU? Explore our answers to common frequently asked questions below!
Although NYU doesn’t explicitly state what it’s looking for in students, you should consider that NYU heavily emphasizes global understanding, diversity, and celebrating a wide range of perspectives.
To stand out, strive for competitive test scores and GPAs, show your community spirit and cultural/global understanding, and consider a college admissions consulting to help you maximize your chances.
There are no GPA cutoffs at NYU, meaning your GPA won’t immediately disqualify you. The average GPA of admitted students is 3.7, so a GPA above that can help you become a more competitive applicant. However, you can offset a lower GPA with higher test scores, varied extracurriculars, and strong essays!
NYU is particularly well known for its performing arts and business programs.
No, NYU isn’t an Ivy League school.
Interviews aren’t required at NYU and are only available for a small number of students applying to certain programs/schools, such as NYU’s Opportunity Programs. Otherwise, NYU doesn’t typically offer undergrad interviews.
Yes, you can! NYU is a test-optional school for the time being. However, if you achieved high scores and want them considered, you can still submit them.
NYU has such a variety of programs it’s hard not to be interested in more than one. Students can double major or do a cross-school minor in another NYU undergraduate school.
NYU announced that it received 118,000 applicants for first-year undergraduate admissions in the most recent cycle.
Yes, NYU will superscore your ACT if you write the test multiple times. This means your highest scores will be considered.
NYU’s tuition costs $62,796 a year.
Since NYU has no minimum GPA requirements, it is possible to get into NYU with a 3.5 GPA. However, since the average incoming GPA of NYU students is 3.7, you’ll need to supplement your application with high SAT/ACT scores, compelling essays, and strong recommendations.
NYU is one of the largest and highest-ranked universities in the world. NYU is quite competitive, although it regularly admits many driven and capable students.
To make sure you’re one of them, it’s critical to stand out in your application. According to NYU, “admissions officers personally review every application.” Applicants should focus on showcasing their passion and individuality in their application and making a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Good luck!
