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Candidate Weekend

Candidate Weekend has been a vital part of the NYU Abu Dhabi admissions process since our very first admissions cycle. It is a unique and important opportunity to experience what it’s like to live and learn in our global community.

Candidate Weekend is the final stage of the NYU Abu Dhabi selection process. Participation in Candidate Weekend is by invitation only and is extended to the most competitive applicants who have demonstrated strong alignment with our values and community.

The weekend includes academic and student life sessions, cultural experiences, and collaborative group discussions. Candidate Weekend offers applicants a meaningful way to evaluate NYU Abu Dhabi as a potential academic home.

All About Candidate Weekend

Attendance at Candidate Weekend is required for admission consideration. While being invited to Candidate Weekend is an important achievement, it does not guarantee admission to NYU Abu Dhabi.

The Candidate Weekend dates* for the 2025-2026 application cycle are:

  • Early Decision I — December 4-7, 2025
  • Early Decision II — February 5-8, 2026
  • Regular Decision — February 26-March 1, 2026

*Candidate Weekend dates are subject to change, and additional dates may be scheduled. NYU Abu Dhabi will communicate any relevant updates to students as required.

Important Notes

  • Students invited to Candidate Weekend will be asked to confirm attendance within 48 hours of receiving an invitation to attend.
  • NYU Abu Dhabi covers the full cost of participation, including meals, flights, visa, transport, and hotel where applicable.
  • Students residing outside of Abu Dhabi city and its environs are required to stay in the Candidate Weekend accommodations for the full duration of the program. Students residing in Abu Dhabi city and its environs should commute to Candidate Weekend.
  • UAE residents will check in on Thursday afternoon and depart Saturday evening.
  • International candidates will arrive between Wednesday night and Thursday evening, depending on flight availability, and will depart between Saturday night and Sunday evening.

Travel times may vary significantly by country. In some cases, students may be required to travel up to two days before and after the Candidate Weekend dates. Please plan accordingly.

If you are applying to NYU Abu Dhabi for the 2025–2026 admission cycle and reside outside the UAE, we strongly encourage you to apply for a passport now if you do not already have one. Your ability to travel to Abu Dhabi for Candidate Weekend is a required part of the admissions process.