Applying to NYU is your opportunity to share your story, passions, and potential with a community that values curiosity, creativity, and ambition. Whether you’re a first-year student, transfer, or international applicant, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from getting ready to applying, to submitting your materials and tracking your application — so you can put your best foot forward.

Before you Apply

Your application journey: How we review applications

• There are no formulas to admissions decisions; NYU seeks students with diverse interests, talents, and goals. Bring your curiosity, creativity, and passion — your story is what makes you stand out!

Stay connected: Use your personal email

• Make sure to use a personal email address. We strongly encourage you not to use a school email address to submit your application, as you may miss important updates about your application and admissions decision. Think of it as your direct line to NYU — don’t miss an important message about your future!

Documents: What to submit

• Please submit only documents or copies that you can replace, because NYU does not return application materials. Keep your originals safe and focus on submitting your best work.

Supplemental materials: Only what’s required

• Only submit artistic materials if your program requires an audition or portfolio. We cannot consider other supplemental materials like research papers or photos. Send only what truly showcases your talents — it helps your application shine.

Application authenticity: Be honest, be you

• Ensure your application and all supporting documents are truthful. NYU has a strict policy on application authenticity and working with agents or third parties. Your authentic story is your strongest asset — tell it confidently!

Application fee waivers

• We don’t want the application fee to be a barrier. If paying the fee would create a financial hardship, simply request a fee waiver in the Common Application. Students affected by an ongoing humanitarian crisis may also request a waiver by selecting “Impacted by Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis.”

International applicants

• If you’re applying from outside the U.S. or will need to submit proof of English proficiency, here’s what to know before you apply.

 

Steps to Apply: Find Your Application Path

Every NYU student’s journey begins in a different place — and that’s exactly what makes our community so dynamic. Choose the applicant type that fits you to find specific requirements and instructions for your application:

After you Apply

Track your progress: Checking application status

• Within three weeks of the application deadline, NYU will confirm receipt of your application and provide instructions to track its status. Stay in the know and in control of your application journey!

Missing materials: Don’t panic

• Supporting materials should ideally arrive by the deadline, but late materials can be accepted within the timeframe shown in your portal (typically 1–2 weeks after the application deadline).

Special Considerations

Applicants with a previous criminal conviction: 

• Please review our admission philosophy and process. We review each application thoughtfully and consider your full journey.

Students affected by natural disasters, political, or governmental decisions:

• We recognize that circumstances may affect a student’s ability to complete the application. If impacted, reach out to the admissions office for guidance. NYU will provide a recommended course of action.