NYU Stern Undergraduate Admissions Rate

Hello, everyone! I've been dreaming about attending NYU Stern for their business program. Does anyone know what the current acceptance rate for Stern's undergraduate program is, and maybe any tips to boost my chances of getting in?

Hello! NYU Stern is known for its prestigious undergraduate business program, and as a result, its acceptance rate tends to be quite competitive. In recent years, the acceptance rate for Stern's undergraduate program has been around 6%.

However, don't get scared off by that low number - admissions may be competitive, but many applicants are accepted to Stern each year. To boost your chances of getting into Stern, consider focusing on the following aspects of your application:

1. Academics: Excelling in a rigorous course load, including advanced classes in subjects like math, economics, and business-related courses, can demonstrate your academic preparedness. A strong GPA and competitive SAT/ACT scores are also important factors that Stern will consider, so aim to surpass their average accepted scores. While NYU is officially test-optional, when applying to such a selective program, you want to show your strengths in as many ways as possible, so it will likely be worth your while to invest time and energy into aiming for a high SAT/ACT score. You can read more about how to navigate test-optional policies on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/.

2. Extracurriculars: In addition to strong academics, Stern is interested in students who have demonstrated leadership and passion in business or related fields. Engage in meaningful business-oriented extracurriculars, such as participating in or leading a business club, competing in economics or entrepreneurship competitions, or gaining relevant internship experiences. If you're looking to bolster your extracurricular involvement, CollegeVine's blog lists a range of reputable summer programs related to business for you to consider: https://blog.collegevine.com/high-school-business-summer-programs/.

3. “Spike”: NYU Stern, like many top colleges, is looking for students with a highly-developed specialty or unique area of excellence. Showcasing your "spike" can help you stand out by showing what you have to offer that even other highly qualified applicants don't. If you have a specific business-related skill or passion, ensure that your accomplishments and experiences related to that area are highlighted in your application.

4. Essay(s): Your NYU-specific supplemental essay(s) should underscore your passion for business and why you want to study the subject at Stern specifically. Be genuine and reflective when writing about your passion for business, your goals within the program, and how NYU Stern can help you reach those objectives. You can read more about how to tackle the current prompt(s) on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-nyu-essays/.

5. Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to your passion for business, your academic potential, and your overall character can strengthen your application. Reach out to recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your achievements, growth, and teamwork.

6. Interview (if applicable): Finally, if you are invited for an interview, make sure to prepare answers to common questions about your goals, motivation, and interest in Stern's business program. CollegeVine's blog contains a list of common interview questions, as well as strong example responses, for you to review, to help you brainstorm how you would respond given your own interest in Stern: https://blog.collegevine.com/15-major-college-interview-questions-to-prepare-for.

Keep in mind that the admissions process is holistic, and NYU Stern will carefully review all aspects of your application when making their decision, so make sure that each element is as polished as possible, rather than prioritizing one thing at the expense of the others. Best of luck with your application!