"The impressive diversity and academic record of NYU Abu Dhabi's third undergraduate class is a clear indication that the concept and ideals of NYU's global network university is one that resonates strongly with today's students," said NYU President John Sexton. "The academic rigor of NYUAD's liberal arts education, coupled with the intrinsic draw of NYU's global network, continues to attract to Abu Dhabi some of the brightest young minds from around the world."

Indeed, the University welcomes 151 of the world's most talented pupils to its student body, hailing from 66 countries around the globe. Most heavily represented by the US, the UAE, Canada, South Korea, and the UK, the University's newest freshman class joins a student body that now represents 89 countries and speaks 86 languages.

In total, 208 students were admitted from 15,520 applicants, making NYUAD one of the most selective higher education programs in the world. Comparable to those of the most prestigious universities, the Class of 2016's test score results demonstrated impressive academic credentials: the median SAT score, out of the 1,600 scale, was 1,460; the ACT — a US-based standardized test encompassing English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning — composite average was 33.11 out of a 36-point scale; and those submitting International Baccalaureate (IB) results reported an average predicted score of 41 (out of a scale of 45).

This year, the freshman class also saw a significant increase in the enrollment of UAE Nationals, with 17 students matriculating, up from nine in the Class of 2015.

"The Class of 2016 joins an extraordinary student body, which in two short years has already begun to make its distinctive mark on the institution, and the world," said NYUAD Vice Chancellor Al Bloom. "Our recruitment has been remarkable, consistently attracting students who are not only among the best academically, but who share a passion for learning, a commitment for building community, and a resolve to make their own difference for humanity."