Tips for getting into NYU?

Hey everyone, I'm currently a junior and NYU is one of my top choices. I'd love to hear some advice or experiences from you guys. What should I focus on to improve my chances of getting in? ECs? GPA? Any help would be appreciated!

First of all, congrats on having NYU as one of your top choices! New York University is a fantastic school with an urban campus, and a wide variety of excellent programs. Here are some tips to help you strengthen your application and improve your chances of getting accepted:

1. Academics: NYU is a competitive university, and maintaining a strong GPA is crucial. Aim for a GPA above 3.7, and try to take a rigorous course load with AP or IB classes. Although NYU is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, submitting a strong SAT or ACT score can set you apart. If you decide to submit a test score, aim for at least 1470 on the SAT or at least 33 on the ACT.

2. Extracurriculars: Colleges like NYU appreciate students who show passion and dedication to their interests. Engage in 8-10 meaningful extracurricular activities, and try to secure leadership positions within them. Focus on quality and depth of involvement rather than the number of activities you participate in. Try to develop a "spike" by specializing in one or two areas, such as academic clubs, community service, or athletic teams.

3. Essays: To make your supplemental essays stand out, write about unique personal experiences and share anecdotes that reveal your character. Here's an in-depth guide to tackling NYU's essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-nyu-essays

4. Letters of recommendation: Request letters from two teachers who know you well and can speak about your academic and personal qualities. Share with them what you'd like them to emphasize, such as work ethic, intellectual curiosity, or leadership skills.

5. Demonstrated Interest: NYU doesn't officially consider demonstrated interest in admissions, but it's still beneficial to attend virtual information sessions, take a campus tour (if possible), and connect with current NYU students or alumni. This can help provide valuable insights about the school.

6. Apply Early Decision (ED): Applying ED to NYU can increase your chances of acceptance as it shows your commitment to attending if accepted. However, make sure to carefully consider the financial implications since ED is a binding agreement, and you would be obligated to attend if admitted.

Finally, be yourself and let your genuine personality shine through in your application. NYU values diversity and wants to admit students who are passionate, curious, and driven. Good luck!