How to Get into NYU: Admission Requirements and Tips

Thinking about applying to New York University (NYU)? Whether you’re drawn to its lively New York City setting, top-tier programs in business, film, and the arts, or the countless opportunities to connect and grow, there’s a lot to look forward to.

But getting in is no easy feat. With an acceptance rate of 8% for the Class of 2028, NYU is extremely selective. Strong grades are important, but they are only part of the equation. NYU looks for students who are not just academically capable but also creative, driven, and ready to make an impact.

If that sounds like you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from GPA expectations and test scores to application tips and deadlines, so you can put together a compelling NYU application.

• How Hard Is It to Get into NYU?
• NYU Admission Requirements
• NYU GPA Requirements
• NYU SAT Scores
• NYU ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into NYU
• NYU Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into NYU?

NYU’s admissions process is highly competitive, but with the right strategy, it’s possible to stand out. For the Class of 2028, NYU received 118,000 applications and admitted only around 9,440 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 8%.

Want to see how NYU’s acceptance rates have changed over time? Here’s a quick breakdown:

With the acceptance rate steadily decreasing, getting into NYU has become more challenging. A strong academic record is essential, but NYU also looks for students who bring creativity, passion, and a unique perspective to the table.

To maximize your chances, focus on showcasing your achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal experiences that make you a great fit for the university.

NYU Admission Requirements

NYU looks for students who not only excel academically but also bring creativity, ambition, and unique perspectives to campus. NYU emphasizes creativity, ambition, and diverse perspectives in its student body, as reflected in its mission statement. Here’s what you need to know about the application process:

• High school coursework. NYU values students who challenge themselves with rigorous coursework. Taking AP, IB, or honors courses can show your ability to handle college-level material. Your transcript should reflect strong academic performance and steady effort.
• Supplemental essay (optional). This is your opportunity to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores. NYU wants to understand your experiences, values, and aspirations. A compelling essay should highlight what makes you unique and how you would contribute to the NYU community.
• Letters of recommendation. While some NYU programs require one or more recommendation letters, others make them optional. If you submit them, they should come from teachers or counselors who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and character.
• Standardized test scores (optional). NYU is test-optional, meaning you can decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you believe your scores strengthen your application, you can include them. Otherwise, NYU allows applicants to apply without test scores.
• Arts portfolio (for certain programs). If you’re applying to a program in the arts, such as Tisch School of the Arts, you may need to submit a creative portfolio or audition materials. This is an essential part of the application for students in artistic fields.
• Additional materials (optional). Some applicants choose to submit additional materials to strengthen their application, such as research abstracts, AP scores, ACT writing test results, or predicted IB scores. These can help showcase your academic strengths and accomplishments.

NYU takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they evaluate more than just your grades and test scores. While strong academics are important, the admissions team also looks for students who bring unique perspectives, talents, and contributions to campus.

Work experience, volunteer activities, and first-generation status are taken into account, as they can show leadership, character, and resilience. Demonstrated interest—such as attending information sessions, interacting with admissions representatives, or visiting campus—is also considered, but it is not a major factor in the decision process.

There are a few factors NYU does not consider in admissions decisions. Unlike some schools, NYU does not conduct interviews for undergraduate applicants. State residency is not a factor since NYU is a private university, and religious affiliation is not considered.

At the end of the day, NYU wants students who are not just academically strong but also creative, ambitious, and ready to make an impact. The best way to stand out is to highlight your unique experiences, passions, and the contributions you will bring to NYU’s diverse community.

High school coursework recommendations

NYU expects applicants to have a strong academic foundation, so your high school coursework is an important part of the admissions process. While specific requirements may vary by program, the general recommendations for coursework are as follows:

• 4 years of English
• 3 to 4 years of Mathematics
• 3 to 4 years of Science (including lab sciences)
• 3 to 4 years of Social Studies
• 3 to 4 years of Foreign Language

These add up to at least 16 academic units that students should complete before graduating high school, though NYU recommends taking 20 or more units for a more competitive application.

Students interested in STEM programs are encouraged to take an extra year of math and science, while those focused on the liberal arts may benefit from additional coursework in social studies and foreign languages.

To strengthen your application, consider taking the most rigorous courses available at your high school. Enrolling in AP, IB, or honors classes can demonstrate your ability to handle challenging coursework and prepare you for the academic expectations at NYU.

NYU GPA Requirements

NYU does not have a strict minimum GPA requirement, but strong academics are essential for a competitive application.

NYU average GPA

According to NYU’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, the average GPA for admitted students is 3.81. While NYU does not officially set a minimum GPA cutoff, aiming for a 3.8 or higher will give you a strong chance of admission. Most admitted students have taken rigorous coursework, including AP, IB, or honors classes.

NYU’s data shows that its accepted students perform well academically:

• 23.1% of students had a perfect 4.0 GPA
• 47.6% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99
• 22.9% had a GPA between 3.50 and 3.74
• 5.2% had a GPA between 3.25 and 3.49
• Only 1% had a GPA between 3.00 and 3.24

This makes it clear that NYU prioritizes academic excellence. However, GPA is just one part of the application. The university takes a holistic approach, considering extracurricular activities, essays, and personal qualities.

If your GPA is not perfect, don’t stress. A strong application that highlights leadership, meaningful activities, and compelling essays can still make a difference.

To stay competitive, aim for a 3.8+ GPA while taking the most rigorous courses available at your school. More than just numbers, NYU looks for students who are ambitious, intellectually curious, and ready to make an impact.

NYU SAT Scores

NYU is test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT scores as part of your application. However, if you choose to submit them, your scores should be competitive to strengthen your application. A high SAT score can demonstrate academic readiness and may help if other areas of your application are weaker.

NYU average SAT scores

According to NYU’s latest Common Data Set, here are the typical SAT scores for admitted students:

Here’s a breakdown of section scores:

Most admitted students score highly on the SAT. 86% of students scored between 700 and 800 on the EBRW section, while 93% achieved that range in the Math section.

If you plan to submit your SAT scores, aim for a 1550 or higher to stay competitive, with strong performance in both Math and EBRW. This score range indicates that you are well-prepared for NYU’s academic challenges.

That being said, your SAT score is just one part of the bigger picture. NYU takes a holistic approach to admissions. If your scores are slightly below the target range, but the rest of your application is strong, you still have a solid shot at getting in.

If you think your SAT score could be improved, retaking the test might be a good option to maximize your chances.

Does NYU require the SAT?

No, NYU has a test-optional policy, so you can choose whether or not to include SAT scores in your application. If you have a strong score, submitting it can enhance your academic profile and strengthen your application.

However, if your scores aren’t as high as you’d like, leaving them out won’t negatively affect your chances of admission.

NYU ACT Scores

NYU doesn’t require ACT scores since it follows a test-optional policy. You can choose whether or not to include your ACT scores in your application. If you have a strong score, submitting it can help showcase your academic strengths. If standardized tests aren’t your strong suit, skipping them won’t hurt your chances.

NYU average ACT

Here’s a look at the ACT scores of admitted NYU students:

NYU hasn’t published a detailed breakdown of ACT section scores. However, students aiming for competitive admissions should aim for strong performance across all sections, particularly in English and Math.

Most NYU students perform well on the ACT. In fact, 98% of admitted students scored between 30 and 36, with very few falling below that range.

If you’re planning to submit ACT scores, aiming for a 35 or higher will put you in the most competitive range. However, if your score isn’t quite there, don’t worry. NYU takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all matter.

Does NYU prefer the ACT or SAT?

NYU does not favor one test over the other. Both the SAT and ACT are equally accepted, so it’s up to you to choose the test that best showcases your academic strengths—or you can opt out entirely since NYU is test-optional.

Among first-year applicants, 27% submitted SAT scores, while 12% submitted ACT scores. This shows that while a significant portion of students still choose to submit test scores, many applicants are admitted without them.

NYU also superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they will take your highest section scores from multiple test dates to calculate your best possible composite score. If you’ve taken the test more than once, this can work in your favor. If you decide to submit test scores, be sure to send your strongest results to maximize your chances.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into NYU

Applying to NYU is competitive, but don’t let that stress you out. With the right strategy and a well-rounded application, you can improve your chances of getting in. Let’s break down the key things that matter most.

1. Maintain a strong GPA.

Your GPA is one of the most important parts of your application. To stay competitive, aim for a 3.8 or higher. NYU looks for students who have challenged themselves academically, so taking AP, IB, or honors courses can give you an edge. Strong performance in these classes signals to admissions officers that you’re ready for NYU’s rigorous academics.

If your grades have improved over time, that’s a great sign of resilience and determination. Admissions officers value students who show growth and work hard to turn things around. If you’ve struggled in certain subjects, using resources like tutors, study groups, or online materials can show your commitment to academic success.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores—only if they help you.

NYU has a test-optional policy, so you get to decide whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If your scores are strong, sending them can make your application stand out.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1520 and 1550 on the SAT and 34 to 35 on the ACT. If your scores fall within or above this range, including them in your application may give you a competitive boost.

If your scores aren’t quite where you want them to be, that’s okay. If you’re thinking about retaking the SAT or ACT, focus on improving weaker sections with the help of practice tests, test prep resources, or private tutoring.

NYU superscores both tests, meaning they will take your highest section scores from multiple test dates to give you the best possible composite score.

If standardized tests aren’t your strength, don’t worry. Your extracurriculars, essays, recommendations, and personal story all play a big role in admissions. Instead of stressing over test scores, focus on highlighting what makes you unique and how you can contribute to NYU’s community.

3. Write an essay that feels authentically like you.

NYU’s supplemental essay is an optional part of the application, but don’t let that fool you. NYU considers essays a “very important” factor in admissions. This is your opportunity to go beyond grades and test scores and give the admissions team a real sense of who you are.

NYU’s supplemental essay focuses on being a bridge builder—someone who connects people, ideas, and communities. They’re looking for students who promote understanding, bring people together, and contribute to a diverse, global community.

Here’s the NYU supplemental essay prompt for 2024-2025:

• “In a world where disconnection seems to often prevail, we are looking for students who embody the qualities of bridge builders—students who can connect people, groups, and ideas to span divides, foster understanding, and promote collaboration within a dynamic, interconnected, and vibrant global academic community. We are eager to understand how your experiences have prepared you to build the bridges of the future.”

Please consider one or more of the following questions in your essay:

• What personal experiences or challenges have shaped you as a bridge builder?

• How have you been a bridge builder in your school, community, or personal life?

• What specific actions have you taken to build bridges between diverse groups, ideas, or cultures?

• How do you see yourself continuing this during your time at NYU and beyond?

How to make your essay stand out:

• Keep it real. Write like you. NYU wants to get to know you, not just your accomplishments.
• Be specific. Don’t just say you like bringing people together. Tell a story that shows it.
• Show your thinking. Let them see how you approach challenges and connections with others.
• Quality over quantity. Focus on a few meaningful moments instead of listing a bunch of things.

Also, keep in mind that the supplemental essay is meant to be concise. When you get to the editing stage, make sure your writing is direct. NYU expects you to communicate your thoughts in 250 words or less. So, make every word count and tell a story that leaves an impact.

At the end of the day, your essay should feel genuine. Take your time, craft a story that reflects who you are, and don’t overthink it. NYU is looking for students who are curious, collaborative, and ready to make an impact, so let your personality shine through.

Need more help with your supplemental essay? Check out our detailed guide on NYU’s supplemental essay!

4. Make a difference through your extracurriculars.

NYU isn’t just interested in the number of clubs you’ve joined or activities you’ve done. They want to see how you’ve engaged with your interests, contributed to your community, and taken initiative. Whether it’s launching a creative project, advocating for social change, or leading a student organization, NYU values students who take action and make an impact.

If you’ve stepped up as a leader, that’s a great sign. Maybe you helped organize a local cultural festival or participated in the Princeton Prize in Race Relations, which recognizes students who have advanced racial equity.

Maybe you ran a campaign for a cause you care about, such as Amnesty International’s Youth Activism program or the National High School Ethics Bowl. Or perhaps you started a club that brought students together over a shared passion, like Zero Robotics for coding enthusiasts or Mock Trial for aspiring lawyers. NYU looks for students who don’t just participate but also create opportunities for others and drive meaningful change.

The quality of your involvement matters just as much as the quantity. Maybe you spent time researching public health solutions through the Simons Summer Research Program or NIH’s Summer Internship Program.

Maybe you built an app to improve accessibility and showcased it at the Conrad Challenge or Coolest Projects. Or perhaps you spearheaded an environmental initiative at your school, earning recognition through the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes or the Davidson Fellows Scholarship.

These experiences highlight your curiosity, problem-solving skills, and ability to make a real-world impact—all things NYU values.

Even if you don’t have formal extracurriculars, your responsibilities outside of school still count. Taking care of siblings, working a part-time job, or helping out in your community all show responsibility, time management, and commitment.

Pro tip: Be specific about your contributions. Instead of saying, “Volunteered at a community center,” say, “Created an after-school mentorship program that helped increase college application rates among first-gen students.” Show the impact you made!

NYU wants students who are active, engaged, and driven. Rather than just listing what you’ve done, highlight how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter.

5. Strengthen your application with a stellar recommendation.

NYU requires at least one letter of recommendation, but you have the option to submit up to three if you believe additional letters will add depth to your application. Your recommender should be someone who knows you well and can speak to your work ethic, character, and potential. This could be a teacher, counselor, work supervisor, or even a community leader.

Tips for strong recommendation letters:

• Pick the right person. Choose someone who can genuinely vouch for your abilities, dedication, and growth. A teacher who saw you go from struggling to excelling, or a mentor who watched you take on leadership roles, is a great choice.
• Give them enough time. Teachers and mentors receive many recommendation requests, so ask at least a month in advance. A well-thought-out letter makes a bigger impact than one written at the last minute.
• Make it easy for them. Provide a short summary of your key projects, leadership experiences, and achievements. The more details they have, the more compelling and personalized their letter will be.
• Express gratitude. A simple thank-you note or a small token of appreciation can go a long way in acknowledging their time and effort.

A strong recommendation can add valuable depth to your application and give NYU admissions officers a clearer picture of your strengths and contributions. Choose your recommenders wisely and make sure they have everything they need to write a letter that highlights what makes you stand out.

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If NYU is at the top of your college wish list, applying Early Decision could give you a leg up. While NYU doesn’t publish ED data, applying early tends to work in applicants’ favor at many competitive schools. ED applicants typically have a better shot than those applying through Regular Decision (RD), so if you’re 100% sure NYU is where you want to be, it might be worth considering.

Check out top schools like Cornell and UPenn, where the gap between ED and RD acceptance rates is pretty noticeable. Cornell’s ED acceptance rate was 16.7%, while the RD rate dropped to 6.2%. Similarly, UPenn had an ED acceptance rate of 14.9%, compared to a 4.4% for RD. These figures show how applying ED can really boost your odds compared to regular admissions.

The catch? Early Decision is binding, which means if you get in, you’re expected to go. Unlike Early Action (which lets you apply early without committing), ED at NYU is a firm “yes” if you’re accepted. So before you hit submit, make sure NYU is truly where you see yourself for the next four years.

That said, while ED can give you a boost, it’s not a magic ticket. NYU is still highly selective, and a strong application is key. If NYU feels like home and you’re ready to commit, applying ED could be a smart move. Just be sure you’re making the choice for the right reasons.

NYU Application Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines is key when applying to NYU. Missing one can throw off your entire application process, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and keep things organized. Here’s a breakdown of NYU’s important dates:

NYU gives you two options for applying. If NYU is your top choice and you’re ready to commit, ED could be a great move. There are two rounds—ED I (November 1 deadline) and ED II (January 1 deadline)—both of which are binding, meaning if you get in, you’re expected to enroll.

If you need more time to decide, RD lets you apply to multiple schools and compare offers before making a final choice. Just make sure you submit everything by January 5 to be considered.

A little planning now can make a big difference later. Set reminders, pace yourself, and put your best foot forward!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get into NYU with low test scores?

NYU is test-optional, so if standardized testing isn’t your strength, don’t worry. You only need to submit SAT or ACT scores if you think they’ll help strengthen your application. Instead, focus on other parts of your application, like your GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays.

If you choose to submit test scores, aim for a 1550+ on the SAT or 35+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores aren’t quite where you want them to be, consider retaking the test or emphasizing other strong areas of your application.

2. What are NYU’s GPA requirements for admission?

NYU doesn’t have a strict GPA cutoff, but a strong academic record is essential for a competitive application. Most admitted students have GPAs around 3.8 or higher, and taking rigorous courses like AP, IB, or honors classes can make your application stand out.

If your GPA isn’t perfect, that’s okay. Strong extracurriculars, leadership roles, and well-crafted essays can help balance your application and show admissions officers what makes you unique.

3. What is NYU known for?

NYU is known for its global presence, world-class academics, and vibrant campus life in the heart of New York City. It has top-ranked programs in business (Stern), performing arts (Tisch), film, politics, and technology. Plus, with study-abroad campuses in Abu Dhabi, Shanghai, and multiple global sites, NYU is a dream school for students who want an international education.

4. Is NYU test-optional?

Yes! NYU has a test-optional policy, meaning you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores unless you believe they’ll enhance your application. Strong scores can give you an advantage, but if standardized tests aren’t your strength, NYU reviews applications holistically. Your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all play a role in the admissions process.

5. How much does it cost to attend NYU?

NYU’s tuition varies depending on the program you’re enrolling in, but for the 2024-2025 academic year, it ranges from $62,796 to $68,978. When you factor in housing, meals, books, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance can go up to $99,366. However, NYU offers need-based financial aid and scholarships to help make education more accessible.

Takeaways

Looking to improve your chances of getting into NYU? Here’s a quick breakdown of what matters most:

• With an acceptance rate of just 8%, NYU admissions are highly competitive. Your application should showcase intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, and community engagement. Strong academics, compelling essays, and meaningful extracurriculars will help make you a strong candidate.
• Strive for a 3.8+ GPA and challenge yourself with AP, IB, or honors courses. Performing well in rigorous classes demonstrates that you’re prepared for the academic intensity of NYU.
• Submitting test scores is optional, but if you choose to, aim for a 1550+ SAT or 35+ ACT to stay competitive. Since NYU superscores, submitting your best section scores from multiple test dates can help maximize your overall score.
• Your essays and extracurriculars should highlight your passions and personal growth. How have you pushed yourself? What impact have you had in your school or community? NYU seeks students who think critically, embrace new perspectives, and contribute in meaningful ways. Show how you’ve made a difference.
• Need guidance? Working with a college admissions consultant can help you navigate the application process with confidence. Let AdmissionSight assist with refining your application, crafting compelling essays, and presenting the strongest version of yourself to NYU.