Scholarships to NYU ⋆ Stand Out College Prep

by Bethany Goldszer | Last Updated: June 24, 2023

New York University (NYU) is a world-renowned institution with a prestigious reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life. With its diverse range of programs and opportunities for students, it’s no surprise that many dream of attending this prestigious university. However, the cost of attending NYU can be a significant barrier for many aspiring students. That’s where scholarships come in!

To receive a scholarship to NYU, you’ll need a high GPA and test scores, be actively involved in your school and community, and have a strong application, including general essays and your supplemental essay. According to NYU, approximately 46% of incoming first year students receive a scholarship, and nearly 20% are awarded financial aid to make the cost more affordable.

If you’re finding NYU is too expensive, and are looking for resources to cover your cost, keep reading to learn about all the scholarships to NYU that are available.

Key Takeaways

Why Is NYU Expensive?

As a private institution, its tuition and fees tend to be higher than those of public universities. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the cost of tuition and fees at NYU was around $58,168 per year for full-time undergraduate students, not including room, board, and other living expenses. Once you add in housing and the expense of living in the heart of NYC, it can easily cost $90,000 per year to attend NYU.

However, NYU does offer a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, to help students afford their education. The amount of financial aid a student receives depends on their financial need, academic achievements, and other factors. It’s essential to explore all financial aid options and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to maximize your eligibility for assistance.

Scholarships to NYU: An Overview

NYU offers numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help students cover the cost of tuition, housing, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on factors such as academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, financial need, and more. Some of the most prominent scholarships to NYU include:

NYU Scholarships for Incoming Students

As a new student at NYU, you can apply for special scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic performance, leadership, and involvement in extracurricular activities, and other special circumstances.

AnBryce Scholarships: This is for students who work hard in school, need money for college, and are the first in their family to go to college. The scholarship can pay for your tuition and lasts for four years. You need to keep a 3.5 GPA and be involved in program activities.
Lenape Scholarship: This scholarship is for students who are involved in Native American culture and communities, even if they are not part of a tribe. It gives preference to members of the Lenape tribal nation.
Lewis Rudin City Scholarships: These scholarships are for top students from New York City public and private high schools. Scholars get to take part in special activities in the city.
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarships: These are for great community college transfer students who are part of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.
Yellow Ribbon Scholarships: This program helps military or veteran students pay for school.
P.O.I.S.E. Scholars: This program is for students at Borough of Manhattan Community College who want to study science, technology, engineering, psychology, or math. Students join activities and events that help them do well in school and get ready for a four-year college.
Presidential Honors Scholars Program: This program is for students who do really well in school and have great leadership and community service. Scholars go to special classes, lectures, and other activities. They are expected to take honors classes and study abroad while at NYU.
Gallatin School of Individualized Study Scholars Program: Gallatin Scholars join a program with cultural and learning activities like concerts, plays, and lectures. They also go on trips to places like Greece, Italy, Thailand, China, Spain, and around the United States.
Meyers Nursing Scholars Program: This scholarship helps two new students who need money for college. It’s for students who are the first in their family to go to college, do well in school, and want to be nurses.
Silver School of Social Work Community College Transfer Opportunity Program Scholarships: Students transferring from community colleges in the Community College Transfer Opportunity Program (CCTOP) can get this scholarship if they need money. A dean, department chair, professor, or transfer counselor must nominate them.
Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development Scholars Program: This program is for students who do well in school and want to be leaders. Scholars join seminars, trips, research, social activities, and community service.
Community College Transfer Opportunity Program Scholarships: Students transferring from community colleges in CCTOP can get this scholarship if they need money. A dean, department chair, professor, or transfer counselor must nominate them.
Education Scholarships: These scholarships are for new students who do well in school, want to be leaders, and want to study education.
Artistic Scholarships: These scholarships are for new students who are really good at music or art.
Gateway Mathematics Education Scholarships: This program helps community college transfer students who want to become math teachers in New York City.

NYU Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships can help bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and the amount of financial aid that a student receives. Some need-based scholarships at NYU include:

The NYU Opportunity Programs: These programs provide financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students from New York State.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars Program: This program provides scholarships to academically talented students who demonstrate a commitment to social justice and community service.

External Scholarships

In addition to scholarships offered directly by NYU, there are also numerous external scholarships available to students who plan to attend the university. These scholarships are awarded by private organizations, foundations, and government agencies. Some examples of external scholarships include:

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program: This program awards scholarships to academically talented, low-income students who are of African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American heritage.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This program offers scholarships to high-achieving high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, commitment to community service, and academic excellence.
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academics and community involvement.

In addition, there are numerous websites where students applying to NYU can find external scholarships. These platforms provide information on various scholarships offered by private organizations, foundations, and other entities. Here are some popular websites to begin your search:

Tips for Applying for Scholarships to NYU

Start your research early: It’s essential to start looking into scholarships well before your application deadline. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to gather all the necessary information and complete any requirements. Give yourself enough time to find scholarships that best fit your needs and qualifications.
Be organized: Staying organized is crucial when applying for scholarships. Keep track of all the deadlines, requirements, and application materials for each scholarship in a spreadsheet or planner. This will help you stay on top of your applications and ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines or details.
Apply for multiple scholarships: To increase your chances of receiving financial aid, apply for as many scholarships as possible that you are eligible for. This approach will maximize your opportunities for funding and help you explore various sources of financial support.
Tailor your application: When applying for scholarships, it’s essential to customize your application materials to showcase your strengths and accomplishments relevant to each scholarship. This may include highlighting your academic achievements, community involvement, or unique talents. Tailoring your application will help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your suitability for the specific scholarship.
Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from your school’s guidance counselor, teachers, or mentors during the application process. They can offer valuable insights, help you identify appropriate scholarships, and provide guidance on crafting a compelling application. Additionally, they may be able to write strong letters of recommendation to support your scholarship applications.

How to Position Yourself for Scholarships to New York

Grades: Maintaining a high GPA throughout high school or college is crucial for scholarships, as many of them have minimum GPA requirements. Good grades demonstrate your academic dedication and ability to succeed in your chosen field. Consistently high grades can make you a strong candidate for merit-based scholarships, which often take academic performance into account.
Extracurricular activities: Participating in extracurricular activities showcases your interests, passions, and commitment to personal growth outside of the classroom. Involvement in clubs, sports teams, volunteer work, or other organizations can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of receiving scholarships. Many scholarships target students with specific interests or talents, so being active in extracurriculars can open up more opportunities for financial aid.
Test scores: High standardized test scores, such as SAT, ACT, or GRE, can help you qualify for scholarships that require a minimum score for eligibility. Strong test scores reflect your academic aptitude and can serve as an additional indicator of your potential to succeed in college or graduate school. Some scholarships are explicitly designed for students with high test scores, so performing well on these exams can increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.
Networking: Building connections with teachers, mentors, guidance counselors, and other professionals in your field can help you learn about scholarship opportunities that might not be widely advertised. Networking can also provide you with valuable advice, recommendations, and support throughout the scholarship application process. Moreover, creating a strong network can lead to potential references or letters of recommendation, which can significantly enhance your scholarship applications and increase your chances of receiving financial aid.

Other Scholarship Considerations

Explore various resources: The websites listed above are just a starting point for finding external scholarships. Don’t limit yourself to these platforms; look for additional resources, such as local foundations, community organizations, or professional associations related to your field of interest.
Consider your unique qualifications: When searching for scholarships, take into account your background, academic interests, extracurricular activities, and financial need. There may be specific scholarships designed for students with your particular qualifications and experiences.
Research eligibility requirements: Before applying for a scholarship, make sure to carefully read and understand the eligibility criteria. Only apply for scholarships that match your profile to increase your chances of success.
Avoid scholarship scams: Be cautious about potential scams when searching for scholarships. Legitimate scholarship providers will never charge a fee for applying. Additionally, be wary of unsolicited scholarship offers or organizations that guarantee success in exchange for a fee.
Stay organized: Keep track of scholarship deadlines, requirements, and application materials. Create a dedicated folder or spreadsheet to help you stay organized and ensure you submit your applications on time.
Be persistent: Remember that finding and applying for scholarships can be a time-consuming process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t receive a scholarship right away. Keep searching and applying to increase your chances of receiving financial aid.
Utilize your network: Reach out to your school’s guidance counselor, teachers, or mentors for advice and support throughout the scholarship search and application process. They may have valuable insights and resources to share.
Apply for multiple scholarships: Don’t limit yourself to just one or two scholarship opportunities. Increase your chances of receiving financial aid by applying for several scholarships that you are eligible for. The more scholarships you apply for, the greater the likelihood of obtaining financial assistance.

Federal Grants and State Grants in New York for NYU Students

In addition to scholarships, grants are another form of financial aid that does not need to be repaid. Grants are usually need-based and can come from federal and state sources. As an NYU student, you may be eligible for various federal and state grants to help fund your education. Here are some options to consider:

Federal Grants:

Federal Pell Grants: These grants are awarded to undergraduate students with significant financial need. The amount awarded depends on factors such as your family’s financial situation, enrollment status, and the cost of attendance at NYU.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): FSEOG grants are available to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. These grants are awarded to students who are also eligible for Pell Grants and are given priority based on their financial need.

State Grants in New York:

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): The TAP is a need-based grant for New York State residents attending college in the state. Eligible students can receive awards ranging from $500 to $5,165 per year, depending on their financial need and the cost of attendance at NYU..
Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS): APTS provides grant assistance for eligible part-time students who are New York State residents. The amount awarded depends on the student’s financial need, tuition costs, and available funds.

To be considered for these grants, make sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any state-specific financial aid applications. By exploring federal and state grant options, you can increase your chances of receiving financial aid to support your education at NYU.

Frequently Asked Questions about Scholarships to NYU

What types of scholarships are available at NYU?

NYU offers a variety of scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, financial need, artistic talent, and more. Some scholarships are specifically for incoming students, while others are for current students and transfer students.

How do I apply for scholarships at NYU?

For most scholarships, you’ll be automatically considered when you apply for admission to NYU. For others, you may need to submit a separate application, write an essay, or provide additional documentation.

Do I need to complete the FAFSA to be considered for scholarships?

Yes, it’s essential to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for need-based scholarships at NYU.

Can international students apply for scholarships at NYU?

Some scholarships at NYU are available to international students. It’s important to review the specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship to determine if you qualify.

Can I receive more than one scholarship at NYU?

Yes, it’s possible to receive multiple scholarships at NYU, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each.

How are scholarships at NYU disbursed?

Scholarship funds are typically applied directly to your tuition and fees. If the scholarship amount exceeds your tuition and fees, the remaining funds may be applied to other educational expenses or refunded to you.

Can my scholarship be renewed each year?

Some scholarships at NYU are renewable, meaning you can receive them for multiple years if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. Be sure to review the specific terms and conditions of each scholarship to understand the renewal process.

What happens if I lose my scholarship?

If you fail to meet the eligibility criteria for your scholarship, such as maintaining a minimum GPA or participating in required activities, you may lose your scholarship. It’s crucial to understand the requirements for maintaining your scholarship and to contact the financial aid office if you have any concerns about your eligibility.

Are there scholarships available for study abroad programs at NYU?

Yes, NYU offers the Global Pathways Scholarships for students who wish to study abroad. These need-based awards can help cover additional costs of studying away from the New York City campus.

Where can I find more information about scholarships at NYU?

For more information about scholarships at NYU, visit the university’s scholarship webpage or contact the financial aid office. You can also research external scholarships and funding opportunities outside of NYU.

Conclusion + Next Steps

Attending NYU is a dream for many students, but the cost can be a significant barrier. By exploring various scholarships to NYU and diligently applying for financial aid, you can make your dream of attending this prestigious institution a reality. Start your research early, be organized, and apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success.

Take the next step towards securing financial aid for your NYU education by visiting our comprehensive Scholarships in New York page. There, you’ll find more information on scholarships, eligibility criteria, and application processes to help you on your journey.

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Bethany Goldszer is top college admissions and financial aid expert. She's been featured in HuffPost, USA Today, Newsday, Queens Gazette, and Official Black Wall Street & voted Best of Long Island. Faced with the overwhelming stress of applying, getting admitted to and financing her University of Chicago education, she started Stand Out College Prep LLC in 2012 so that no student or parent would have to go through this process alone. Over the last 15 years, Bethany has worked with over 1,500 students, helping them and their parents get into their top choice colleges and secure more than $20M in financial aid and scholarships. And each year, she continues to help more students stand out in the college admissions process and their parents navigate financial aid and scholarships.

Scholarships to NYU