NYU Acceptance Rate

New York University (NYU), located in New York City, is one of the most selective private universities in the United States. For the Class of 2028, NYU reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 8.0%, reflecting its highly competitive admissions process. This selectivity is driven by a growing applicant pool, with over 118,000 applications received in the most recent cycle, as well as NYU's increasing global reputation and desirable urban campus. The university provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, offering detailed insights into enrollment trends and applicant demographics. Factors such as academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and alignment with NYU’s mission also influence admission decisions.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 8.0%, with around 9,400 students admitted out of over 118,000 applicants, marking one of the lowest rates in NYU’s history.
• Early Decision Rate: Estimated at 15.0%, as NYU typically admits a higher percentage of early decision applicants due to their demonstrated commitment, though exact figures for 2028 are not yet published.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 7.5%, reflecting a slightly more competitive process for international applicants, who comprised a significant portion of the applicant pool.

Over the past decade, NYU’s acceptance rate has steadily declined, dropping from around 16% in 2015 to 8% for the Class of 2028, signaling increasing competitiveness. The university’s Early Decision program continues to play a significant role, often yielding higher acceptance rates for applicants who commit early. International admissions remain highly selective due to limited spots and a growing global applicant pool. Compared to peer institutions like Columbia University or the University of Southern California, NYU’s selectivity is on par, positioning it among the top-tier urban universities in the U.S. For the most accurate and updated statistics, prospective students are encouraged to visit NYU’s official admissions page at nyu.edu/admissions or review the Common Data Set for historical trends.