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New York University

Overview

New York University

Established in 1831, NYU has long stood as an esteemed private university of academic distinction and forward-thinking, drawing a swell of applicants with each successive admissions cycle. This past spring, NYU experienced a remarkable surge in applications, with nearly 120,000 eager candidates vying for a spot; yet only a select few were granted the prestigious acceptance letter, resulting in an acceptance rate of a mere 12%.

With its sprawling urban campus and a plethora of academic offerings spanning arts, sciences, business, and beyond, NYU offers a unique educational experience that seamlessly integrates rigorous scholarship with real-world engagement. From its iconic Washington Square Park setting to its global network of campuses and centers, NYU continues to inspire generations of students to embrace intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and social responsibility, shaping leaders who are equipped to make a global-level impact.

Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.

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NYU Academics

New York University (NYU) is renowned for its exceptional academic programs spanning a diverse range of disciplines, with exceptional strength in fields such as the arts and humanities, social sciences, and performing arts. NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts stands as a global hub for artistic innovation, offering cutting-edge programs in film, drama, dance, and music, while the College of Arts and Sciences provides a robust foundation in liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking and intellectual exploration. Additionally, NYU’s Stern School of Business is celebrated for its rigorous curriculum and esteemed faculty, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern business world with confidence and acumen. With a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, NYU cultivates a supportive and inclusive learning environment, and has a wealth of resources to empower students throughout their academic and professional journeys.

The student/faculty ratio at New York University is 8:1 and 58% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

NYU Undergraduate Colleges:

  • The College of Arts & Sciences
  • Gallatin School of Individualized Study
  • Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
  • Stern School of Business
  • Tandon School of Engineering
  • Tisch School of the Arts

NYU Popular Majors:

  • Visual and Performing Arts
  • Film and Television
  • Business, Management, and Marketing
  • Economics
  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • Political Science
  • Social Work
  • Computer Science

Notable or Distinct Majors at NYU:

  • Business and Political Economy
  • Education Studies
  • Journalism
  • Urban Design and Architectural Studies
  • Mathematics and Computer Science
  • Science and Technology Studies
  • Nursing
  • Global Public Health (often a double major)

Unique Academic Opportunities at NYU:

  • Robust study abroad opportunities with distinct NYU global campuses.
  • Plentiful internship and career opportunities due to NYU’s location in New York City.
  • Opportunity Programs for traditionally underserved students.
  • Renowned arts and entertainment programs.

NYU Admissions

NYU Application Details:

  • NYU currently does not require standardized test scores from applicants. According to S. News, most recently the 75th percentile SAT score among accepted students was a score of 1570, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 35.
  • The Common Application is accepted at NYU.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • NYU most recently required applicants to respond to one supplemental essay question using approximately 250 words.
  • Students must submit a mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit at least one teacher, counselor, coach, or supervisor recommendation with their application.
  • NYU does not offer admissions interviews.

New York University Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov 1
Regular Decision
Jan 5
Fall Transfer
Apr 1

Class Profile

NYU Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 20%
  • Black students: 8%
  • Hispanic students: 17%
  • White students: 22%
  • International students: 26%
  • First-generation college students: 20%
  • 59% women; 41% men

Life in New York City

Living in New York City as a college student is an exhilarating and transformative experience unlike any other. From the moment you step onto the bustling streets of Manhattan, you’re immersed in a whirlwind of energy, diversity, and endless possibilities. The city becomes your campus, with iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and vibrant neighborhoods serving as both backdrop and playground for exploration. Whether it’s attending world-class performances on Broadway, sampling cuisines from around the globe, or simply people-watching in Central Park, every day presents new opportunities for adventure and discovery. Yet amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s also a sense of community and camaraderie among NYU students, who navigate the challenges and triumphs of college life together. Living in New York as a college student is a constant balancing act of academics, internships, social activities, and personal growth, but it’s also a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and endless inspiration.

  • Depending on traffic, NYU is approximately 50-60 minutes from the JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports.
  • From the Statue of Liberty and Times Square to Central Park and the Empire State Building, NYC is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, offering college students endless opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and exploration.
  • NYC is a hub for internships, with countless companies, startups, and organizations offering hands-on experience and professional development opportunities for college students in fields ranging from finance and marketing to journalism and nonprofit work.
  • With Broadway shows, off-Broadway productions, live music venues, comedy clubs, and film festivals, NYC is a mecca for arts and entertainment, providing college students with access to world-class performances and cultural events that inspire, entertain, and enrich their lives.
  • Don’t be fooled. Although New York City is the largest city in America, the ways to get outside and amongst nature are plentiful. Consider biking through Central Park’s winding paths and indulging in lakeside picnics. Nearby you also have the waterfront leisure of Hudson River Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the High Line, offering elevated views and tranquil greenery amidst urban landscapes, along with Riverside Park’s scenic riverside paths, all providing a diverse array of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation amidst the bustling metropolis.

NYU Campus Life:

Campus life at New York University is an unparalleled experience brimming with energy, diversity, and endless opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Situated in the heart of Greenwich Village, NYU’s urban campus pulsates with the vibrant rhythm of New York City, offering students access to a rich tapestry of cultural, artistic, and culinary delights right at their doorstep. From exploring world-class museums and theaters to sampling eclectic cuisines from around the globe, students at NYU are immersed in a dynamic and cosmopolitan environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and community. Beyond the bustling streets of Manhattan, NYU’s extensive network of student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities provides countless avenues for students to connect with peers who share their passions and interests. Whether attending captivating lectures by renowned scholars, engaging in spirited debates at student-run forums, or simply lounging in Washington Square Park, campus life at NYU is an exhilarating journey of exploration, discovery, and lifelong friendships.

NYU Social Activities:

  • Approximately 10% of undergraduate students are involved in Greek life.
  • NYU is an urban university that does not have a defined campus. Instead, dorms and classroom buildings are located throughout Greenwich Village, and many students consider Washington Square Park and Union Square Park to be their central hubs. For that reason, NYU typically attracts independent students who are not looking for a traditional college campus experience.
  • While the arts tend to dominate the student focus over sports, there are still plenty of intramural sports that students can get involved with at NYU.
  • NYU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its student body, which comprises individuals from all walks of life, representing a rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This diversity creates a vibrant and welcoming community where students are encouraged to embrace their identities, celebrate differences, and engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
  • With campuses and study abroad programs in cities around the world, NYU offers students the chance to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, gain international perspectives, and expand their horizons through global experiences, which helps foster a global mindset and prepare students for success in an interconnected world.

NYU Traditions:

  • The biannual Club Fest hosts all of the NYU student organizations as a way for all undergraduates to become acquainted with the many groups available to them on campus.
  • Strawberry Fest is an annual arts and musical festival held in the spring, which brings in many local artists, musical entertainment, games, delicious food and more.
  • Each year, a university committee selects a single book that becomes the focus of a voluntary campus-wide book club.

NYU Housing and Dorms:

On-campus housing is not required but is guaranteed to undergraduates for all four years (if they live on-campus for the first year, thereby locking in the guarantee). Many freshmen choose to live on campus so that they can form a social group, due to the undefined nature of NYU’s campus. Upperclassmen often move off-campus.

  • More than 97% of rooms are shared. Single rooms are very limited.
  • NYU has 23 different residence halls to choose from. They also have two separate campuses: Greenwich Village (main campus) and Downtown Brooklyn (Tandon School of Engineering).
  • Students who live off-campus can still purchase meal plans.

NYU Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$93,184
  • There are multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.
  • Starting in 2024, all full-time first year undergraduate students will not have to pay tuition if they have a total family income less than $100,000.

Get Into New York University with Spark Admissions

As you embark on the exciting journey of applying to college, navigating the competitive admissions process can seem daunting. That’s where Spark Admissions comes in. Our team of expert college admissions consultants specializes in helping students like you stand out amid the growing number of applicants vying for a spot at NYU every year. With our personalized college counseling guidance and insider expertise, we’ll work closely with you to craft a compelling application that showcases your unique strengths, passions, and potential contributions to the NYU community. From strategizing your high school courses and extracurricular involvement to perfecting your college essay, we are here to provide the dedicated support you need to maximize your chances of admission success. Connect with us to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with one of our expert college admissions counselors to find out how we can help you achieve your college aspirations!

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