New York University Abu Dhabi
About the university
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is a highly selective global liberal arts and research university, established in 2010 as a degree-granting campus of New York University. It is part of NYU’s Global Network, alongside campuses in New York and Shanghai. Located on Saadiyat Island, the campus offers a fully residential experience with small class sizes (around 14 students) and a strong interdisciplinary curriculum. Students can study across 26 majors in arts, sciences, engineering, and social sciences, with mandatory global study opportunities at NYU campuses worldwide. The university is known for exceptional academic quality, full financial aid packages, and a highly diverse student body from over 120 countries.
Key information
- Location: Abu Dhabi, AE
- Ranking #4
- QS #38
- THE #27
- US News #31
- National ranking #1
- Institution type: private
Popular faculties
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
Programs (4)
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Economics
Student body
- Total students: 2,200
- Undergraduate: 2,100
- Graduate: 100
- International students: 90%
Campus life
Campus life at NYU Abu Dhabi is highly immersive and residential. Students live on campus in a close-knit community, creating strong social and academic connections. The campus is modern and located in a cultural district near Louvre Abu Dhabi, offering access to arts and global events. Students participate in over 70 clubs, leadership programs, research projects, and global study trips. The academic intensity is high, but balanced with cultural activities, sports, and travel opportunities. The environment combines elite academic rigor with a unique international lifestyle, where students interact daily with peers from over 120 countries.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: $500 / per month
Housing options
- On-Campus Residence Hall
- Student Apartments
Student clubs and organizations
- Debate Club
- Entrepreneurship Club
- Arts Club
- Media Club
- Cultural Clubs
- Sustainability Club
Sports
- Football Team
- Basketball Team
- Volleyball Team
- Cricket Team
- Athletics Team
Career & internships
Employment rate: 95%
Partner companies
- McKinsey
- Goldman Sachs
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Deloitte
Internships: NYU Abu Dhabi provides strong access to internships and research opportunities through its global network. Students are encouraged to complete internships in Abu Dhabi, New York, or other global locations. The university offers funded internships, research assistantships, and global study-away programs across NYU campuses. Many students participate in research with faculty or industry partners, often leading to publications or advanced study opportunities. Career support includes mentorship, networking, and access to global employers.
Admission requirements
Required tests
- IELTS
- TOEFL
Required documents
- Common Application
- Academic Transcripts
- High School Certificate
- Personal Essay
- Recommendation Letters
- English Test (Optional)
- Extracurricular Activities
Minimum GPA: 3.7
Tuition costs
- $65,000 - $70,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 3.00%
- Scholarships available: NYU Abu Dhabi offers one of the most generous financial aid systems globally. The university practices need-blind admissions for international students and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. This often includes full tuition, housing, meals, health insurance, flights, and personal expenses. Financial aid is tailored individually, making it possible for students from low-income backgrounds to study for free. Scholarships are not separate applications; all admitted students are automatically considered. This model makes NYUAD one of the few elite universities where affordability is not a barrier for talented students worldwide.
Quick facts
- Founded: 2010
- Teaching languages: english
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- Website: https://nyuad.nyu.edu
- [email protected]
- +971-2-628-4000