University Prep Program (UPP)

About the Program

We are excited to announce the launch of the 2026 NYU Abu Dhabi University Prep Program (UPP), dedicated to supporting students to prepare stronger applications for college using the CommonApp. This two-day in-person sessions will take students on a journey where they are exposed to all the information they need, reflect on their personal goals, build key skills needed for a successful application in workshop-style sessions, and find a community of like-minded peers.

NYU Abu Dhabi provides this program at no cost to the participants, including all program materials and meals. Transportation and accommodation are not provided.

All program graduates will be encouraged to act as mentors and advisors to peers within their respective high schools, sharing the knowledge and skills they have gained through this program.

The NYU Abu Dhabi University Prep Program

Dates: July 4-5, 2026

Time: 10am-4pm*

Location: NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Students must follow the application instructions to be considered for this program. The application form can be found in the Application Instructions tab. The application deadline is May 18, 2026.

While the in-person program is offered at no cost to those selected, airfare, accommodation, and transport expenses are NOT covered by the university. Those selected are required to cover their own expenses.

*Participants must participate in all mandatory meetings.

Program Eligibility

The Program is open to all students anywhere applying for fall 2027 entry to a university that uses the Common Application.

Students must intend to apply to university for the fall 2027 semester. This includes students who are rising seniors (those finishing high school in spring 2027), students graduating high school in 2026 and intending to take a gap year, or students who are committed to military service (for UAE nationals).

Students must be able to commit to attending the full program; lateness and/or absence will not be accepted.

Regardless of their location, all students will be responsible for their transportation and accommodation.

Student transcripts and overall application will be considered to assess academic strength and admissibility.

Be prepared that you will need to upload a copy of your high school marks to date (your high school transcript) as part of your application, as well as any report cards you have received from 2025-2026.

You may submit one optional letter of recommendation as part of your application.

You may also submit scores from an English language proficiency test as part of your application. Please see here for a list of tests NYU accepts.

Apply Now.

Please submit your completed application by May 18, 2026.