NYU vs UCLA
How NYU and UCLA stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| NYU | UCLA | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 7.7% | 8.7% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1480-1560 | Not reported |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-blind |
| Type | Private | Public |
| Location | NY | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $83,920 | $35,529 |
| Average cost after aid | $36,500 | $18,000 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 4 |
- NYU is harder to get into than UCLA (7.7% versus 8.7%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, UCLA is usually the cheaper option ($18,000 versus $36,500 per year on average).
- On testing, NYU is test-optional while UCLA is test-blind.
- UCLA asks for more supplemental writing (4 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
NYU vs UCLA FAQ
Is NYU or UCLA harder to get into?
NYU is harder to get into, admitting about 7.7% of applicants versus 8.7% at UCLA.
Is NYU or UCLA cheaper?
After financial aid, UCLA is usually cheaper, about $18,000 per year on average versus $36,500 at NYU.
See your real chances at NYU and UCLA.
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