Overview
New York University is a highly selective private four-year institution in New York, New York. The school accepts 12.5% of applicants and enrolls 29,430 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 12.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,520
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,470–1,570
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 29,430
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
NYU's admissions office cares deeply about your connection to New York City and how you plan to use the urban environment as part of your education. Unlike other elite universities with traditional campuses, NYU wants to see that you understand living and learning in Washington Square Park means the city becomes your campus.
Your essays should reference specific NYU schools and programs rather than generic statements about the university. Mention Tisch's collaborative studios, Stern's finance trading floor, or CAS's core curriculum requirements. The admissions team can tell when you've done surface-level research versus understanding what makes each school within NYU distinct.
Don't write about wanting the "college experience" or campus traditions. NYU doesn't have a football team, Greek life dominates social life differently here, and dorm life centers around residence halls scattered throughout Greenwich Village. Instead, focus on how you'll engage with internships, cultural institutions, and the professional opportunities that come with studying in Manhattan.
The application process requires you to apply to a specific school within NYU, and transferring between schools after admission can be difficult. Research whether you want Liberal Studies, which offers a smaller community feel within the larger university, or direct admission to schools like Steinhardt for education or Gallatin for individualized study.
Your "Why NYU" supplement should avoid clichés about diversity and opportunity. Instead, write about specific professors whose research interests align with yours, particular courses you want to take, or how NYU's global network connects to your career goals. The admissions committee reads thousands of essays about Times Square and Broadway shows.
Early Decision gives you a significant advantage, but only apply ED if NYU is genuinely your top choice. The financial aid packages can be less generous than peer institutions, so make sure you can afford the commitment before applying binding early admission.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $35,035/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $60,438
- Students Receiving Aid
- 19%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 88.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $82,509/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 95.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New York University require standardized test scores for admission?
NYU has a test-flexible policy, allowing students to submit SAT, ACT, AP exams, IB scores, or subject-specific exams instead of traditional standardized tests.
What are the Early Decision deadlines for New York University?
NYU offers Early Decision I with a November 1 deadline and Early Decision II with a January 1 deadline. Both are binding admission options.
Can you transfer to New York University as a sophomore?
NYU accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Students must complete at least 32 credit hours before transferring and should apply by April 1 for fall or November 1 for spring.
Does New York University consider demonstrated interest in admissions decisions?
NYU does not track demonstrated interest as part of their admissions process. Campus visits and information sessions are not required or factored into admission decisions.