What is the Admissions Office looking for? (on behalf of those with a low GPA or low test score)

Colleges and Universities A-Z New York University
1

I understand that NYU has a typical GPA and test scores, but how heavily do they weigh their decision on specific parts of the application? I’ve heard that they weigh both essays heavily as well as EC’s. Is that enough to excuse a low test score or GPA? From looking at results from last year, it seems like there was no GPA or SAT/ACT that guaranteed admission. Are other factors in the application really that important? (I imagine this is probably school specific)

2

Like with any other school, if you have scores at the 25th percentile or below, your chances will be much lower than those with higher scores. NYU has holistic admissions, meaning that other factors are also taken into consideration. So a great essay, or great EC’s or a remarkable recommendation may offset the effect of a lower gpa or test score. And test scores or gpa alone will not necessarily do the trick if they are not accompanied by decent enough essays, Ec’s or recommendations.

The one determining factor that is an important additional variable is for those who are applying to talent based programs. For such music, art, dance or film programs, auditions or portfolios are as important as gpa/scores/ec’s/ essays and recs combined. Talent is then 50% of your application.

3

A great essay will not make up for mediocre GPA and test scores. The adcoms may assume someone wrote the essay for the student.

4

Is that the main reason why? My essay is strong but it’s not hard to believe that I wrote it. I got straight A’s in English and history courses and 35 and 36 on the English and reading sections. I just have a low GPA from receiving B’s and C’s in science and mostly math. I want to go into the humanities anyway, will they take that trend into consideration?

5

Yes.

6

I got a 1270 SAT (below average) but had a 3.9 GPA unweighted, accompanied by 12 AP classes. My essays were incredible, and I got in. My best advice is to find ways to compensate for weaknesses. For example, low SAT score = high gpa, poor ec’s = job, low gpa = intense courseload, etc,. So, there is still a chance.