New York University (NYU) isn’t just a school—it’s a lifestyle, and that lifestyle is set in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities: New York. Located in the trendy Greenwich Village neighborhood, NYU’s campus is more like a city itself, with its academic buildings nestled between coffee shops, galleries, and restaurants. Since its founding in 1831, NYU has grown into a global hub for students, drawing people from all over the world who want to learn, grow, and thrive in a bustling urban environment.
The NYU Experience
The NYU experience includes the whole city as your campus, with SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown just a short walk away. Washington Square Park (NYU’s unofficial quad) is at the center of it all, surrounded by a mix of 19th-century townhouses and sleek, modern academic buildings. The university’s massive library system is one of the largest in the country, and the Kimmel Center for University Life hosts everything from career fairs to performances, making it the social hub for students.
Core Courses at NYU
Academically, NYU offers a ton of options. Freshmen and sophomores take core courses like language, writing, and scientific inquiry, and you can pick up unique language skills like Arabic, Swahili, or Tagalog. The Tisch School of the Arts is a major draw, having trained famous actors, directors, and producers like Alec Baldwin, Martin Scorsese, and Spike Lee. Tisch students even get to perform on Broadway before they finish their degrees! If you’re into business, the Stern School of Business offers a major in business and political economy, while accounting majors enjoy a high job-placement rate post-graduation. NYU also offers programs in fields ranging from engineering and nursing to real estate and social work. Students can customize their experience at the Gallatin School, which lets them design their own major.
Academics at NYU
NYU isn’t for the faint of heart. The academics are tough, and balancing a full course load with internships and jobs is common. Even though NYU is huge, about 60% of undergraduate classes have fewer than 20 students, which means you’ll get plenty of one-on-one time with professors—many of whom are big names in their fields.
NYU’s Global Footprint & Studying Abroad at NYU
Speaking of real-world experience, NYU has a major global footprint. The university has campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, plus 11 other academic sites around the world. More than half of NYU students study abroad, often starting as early as their freshman year. Plus, internships are a big deal here—whether you’re working on Wall Street or interning with a top film company, NYU has you covered. The career center is top-notch and incredibly personalized, helping students land jobs and internships that set them up for success.
NYU’s Diverse Student Body
Students come from all over the world to study at NYU. 52% of undergraduates are from outside New York State, and 22% are from other countries. The student body is diverse—6% African American, 20% Asian American, and 14% Hispanic. There’s a strong focus on social justice and global issues, with students passionate about topics like immigration, LGBTQ rights, and environmental policy.
Housing and Meals at NYU
One big perk for NYU students? Housing. The university now guarantees four years of housing for all freshmen (and most transfers), which is a game-changer in New York’s notoriously expensive real estate market. The residence halls range from swanky new buildings to converted hotels and even old monasteries. 44% of students choose to live on campus, where you’ll find spacious rooms and private bathrooms—way nicer than your average city apartment. Meals are solid too, with dining halls offering everything from sushi to wraps to kosher options. Of course, being in the heart of the city means there are endless cheap eats just a block away.
Wellness at NYU
Despite its size, NYU does a great job of supporting its students. There’s a Wellness Exchange for mental health support, a comprehensive sexual misconduct program, and academic advising for everyone. Safety is a priority, with NYU security officers and NYPD patrols all over the area, so you’ll always feel safe.
NYU’s Social Scene & Student Life
NYU’s social scene is a mix of campus events and city life. On any given weekend, you can find students at a concert, movie, or event in Washington Square Park, or out and about in the city enjoying one of the world’s most vibrant social scenes. With over 600 student clubs and organizations, there’s always something to get involved in. Sports aren’t the biggest focus at NYU, but there are still plenty of varsity and intramural teams to join, plus an awesome athletic center with a pool, climbing wall, and fitness classes.
Graduating from NYU means you’ve done more than just earned a degree—you’ve experienced life in one of the world’s most exciting cities. If you’re up for the challenge and intense work of being an NYU student, it’s one wild, rewarding ride.
Application Requirements
If You Apply To NYU, you can apply Early Decision I and II or Regular Decision. NYU accepts the Common Application with a supplement. Students can also submit scholarship applications at the time of applying.
Students who apply Early Decision I and II are accepted at higher rates than students who apply Regular Decision. EDI and EDII accept rates are comparable. Certain programs require a portfolio or audition. Check NYU’s website for the latest info on standardized test requirements.
NYU’s Application Deadlines
