The NYU Abu Dhabi Common Application: Everything You Need to Know

For a full overview of the Common Application, check out this video with Ango Paul Mwakisu, senior assistant director of admissions at NYU Abu Dhabi. In just 30 minutes, he explains each section of the application, reviews important deadlines, and shares insights on what to expect along the way. You can also visit the NYU Abu Dhabi Apply for Admission site, which has lots of useful information, including a short video on the Common Application.

Whether you’re wondering about essays, deadlines, or how the admissions process works, we’ve got you covered.

Will it reduce my chances if I apply Regular Decision instead of Early Decision?
NYU does not track demonstrated interest in any way, but Early Decision (ED) is a way to show that NYU Abu Dhabi is your top choice. Because ED applicants commit to enroll if admitted, most of the incoming class is selected from the two ED rounds. Still, our evaluation standards remain consistent across all deadlines. If you’re certain NYU Abu Dhabi is the right fit, ED may be for you. If you’d like more time to compare options, Regular Decision is a great choice, too.

Can I later switch to the New York City or Shanghai campus?
Students are admitted to one primary campus and are generally expected to graduate from that campus. However, as part of NYU’s global network, NYU Abu Dhabi students can study away for up to a full year at other NYU sites, including New York City and Shanghai. There, they can take courses (and even complete minors) not offered in Abu Dhabi.

I don’t see an option to apply as a transfer. Why not?
NYU Abu Dhabi does not accept transfer applications due to the integrated nature of our four-year academic and residential experience. You’re welcome to apply as a first-year student even if you’ve already taken courses elsewhere—just be ready to spend four full years with us. However, if you’ve completed more than two years of study at another institution, you may want to consider whether restarting your degree makes sense.

Does applying to more than one campus increase or decrease my chances?
Applying to multiple campuses won’t affect your chances of admission either way. Each campus reviews applications independently. So, if you select more than one campus, the admissions committee will first review your application for your top choice, then for your next choice(s) if applicable. You’ll only receive one offer of admission, so be sure you’re genuinely interested in each campus you select.

Should I write the supplemental essay? What’s the best one you’ve ever read?
Here, optional really does mean optional! Still, the supplemental essay is also an opportunity. It allows you to share more about yourself and your interest in NYU Abu Dhabi. Skipping it won’t hurt your application, but completing it can help the admissions team better understand who you are. As for what to write, there’s no formula for a perfect essay. The strongest essays reveal how you think, what you care about, and how you see the world. They often touch on questions like: How do you solve problems and overcome obstacles? How do you connect and collaborate with others? So, be specific, use your own voice, and write about something that feels true to you.

How does the letter of recommendation work?
NYU requires just one letter of recommendation, and it doesn’t have to come from a teacher, counselor, or school representative. Choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your achievements and potential. Then, add them to your “Invite and Manage Recommenders” list in the Common Application and assign them to NYU. They’ll get an invitation to send their reference letter straight to us. Still confused? Don’t worry; the “Recommenders and FERPA” section of the Common Application has a great Frequently Asked Questions section!

What if I don’t have a counselor?
If you don’t have an official guidance or college counselor, then a teacher, principal, or other school official can fill in those parts of the Common Application, such as the School Report.

Can I submit an art portfolio on top of my Common App?
At NYU Abu Dhabi, we don’t require any additional documents, since students technically enter the University undecided. That said, you can always talk more about your amazing achievements in the “Activities or Additional Information” section of the Common Application. And we have an entire article devoted to additional materials here!

Which major or program has the highest acceptance rate?
NYU Abu Dhabi admits students to the University, not to individual programs, so there’s one overall acceptance rate. All students enter undecided and declare a major at the end of their second year after completing prerequisite courses. Still, if you’re interested in Business or Engineering, a strong background in math—especially calculus—doesn’t hurt.

What’s the first thing the admissions committee reviews when they open an application?
“The first thing I look at when I open a candidate’s application is their name,” says Salelaye Samoura, assistant director of admissions at NYU Abu Dhabi. “If you’ve dedicated the time to submit your application for consideration, this is the first step in getting to know you as a candidate. Beyond that, I will look at your school report and school profile to understand and contextualize your educational background and experience. Only after this will I dive into the academic credentials, like transcripts and testing.”

I’m an Emirati applicant. How do I share information about my identity?
In the “Abu Dhabi Campus” section of the NYU Common Application, just answer two quick yes-or-no questions about your Emirati background: Do either one your parents hold an Emirati passport? Do you hold an Emirati Family Book (Jenseyah)? That’s all you need to do!

I entered my birth date but it’s telling me I can’t apply because I won’t be 17 by next August. Help!
Students applying to NYU Abu Dhabi must be at least 17 years old by August 1 of the year they intend to enroll. This policy helps protect students, and no exceptions can be made. You can learn more about our entry requirements here.

Once I’ve submitted my application, can I make changes to it?
You can submit requests to update your application through your NYU Applicant Portal, using the “Information Update Request” form(s). First, sign in to the “Application Status” page using your Net ID and the password. There, you will be able to see your checklist and upload any new materials and information.

• Check out our tips and tricks for the Common Application.
• Review NYU Abu Dhabi’s entry requirements.
• Note the key dates and deadlines to apply.
• Join a virtual session on the Common Application.