Entry Requirements

What You Need to Apply to NYU Abu Dhabi

NYU Abu Dhabi considers each applicant through a comprehensive review process, taking into account their academic preparation, achievements, and experiences. Before applying, review the requirements below to understand what you will need to complete your application.

1. Academic Requirements

NYU Abu Dhabi welcomes students from a wide range of educational systems and backgrounds. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic preparation for university-level study.

Preparing for Academic Success

Many NYU Abu Dhabi degree pathways require rigorous quantitative coursework. Strong preparation in mathematics can help students transition confidently into university-level study and engage fully with the interdisciplinary learning environment at NYU Abu Dhabi. Building a strong foundation in calculus in high school ensures you can transition smoothly and succeed academically from day one.

Applicants are required to provide academic records reflecting their secondary school studies. Visit the Apply for Admission page for instructions on submitting transcripts. 

2. Standardized Testing

NYU will remain test-optional through the 2027–2028 application cycle. Applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. NYU has one of the most flexible testing policies of any college or university. Students who choose to submit standardized testing should review NYU's standardized testing policy for all campuses of NYU.

Results from standardized testing exams are an important criteria for evaluating our global pool of applicants.

3. English Language Proficiency

To succeed in NYU's fast-paced, rigorous academic environment, all students must have a strong command of the English language. Therefore, applicants whose first language is not English are generally required to submit results from a proficiency exam taken within the last two years. Even if not strictly required, submitting these scores can provide valuable context to your application.

An English Language Proficiency test is required for students whose native language is not English, unless they have been studying in a curriculum where English is the sole language of instruction for all courses for three years prior to applying. Students only taking a world language subject may be exempt. In general, most students for whom English is not their first language can expect to submit English language testing, even if they have been in a fully English-speaking curriculum.

NYU Admissions reserves the right to request proof of English language proficiency from any applicant at any time during the evaluation process.

Please review NYU's English Language Testing Requirements to ensure that you have completed the required testing by the application deadline.

4. Age Requirements

Students must be 17 years old by August 1 of the year they plan to enroll in order to be eligible to attend NYU Abu Dhabi. Applicants who will not meet this criteria may apply for the following class. If you are uncertain about your eligibility, please contact nyuad.admissions@nyu.edu before you submit your Common Application.

5. Application Requirements

A complete application to NYU Abu Dhabi includes:

• The Common Application
• Academic records
• One letter of recommendation
• STARS (Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System)
• The NYU Abu Dhabi Applicant Profile 
• Standardized and/or English Language Proficiency test, if applicable

For step-by-step instructions on completing and submitting your application, visit the Apply for Admission page.