How to Apply
The application procedure varies slightly for some of the areas of study in the department. For specific application information please see the “How to Apply” section within the specific area of study you are interested in.
Overview
The Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute accepts candidates with bachelor’s degrees in any field and with a wide variety of experience. We look at the quality of applicants’ writing and insights as displayed in the personal statement, their undergraduate transcripts, their GRE scores if submitted and their recommendations. We accept clips (published examples of applicants’ work) submitted with applications, and recommend that applicants submit any clips they have. But clips are rarely a deciding factor in the applicant review process. The GRE is not required for any journalism programs. In some cases it is optional and will be considered if submitted. Please refer to individual program requirements for additional information.
Along with the completed application, the applicant must provide academic transcripts (one from each school attended), three letters of recommendation, and three writing samples. These samples are not limited to published work. They should be indicative of the applicant’s best overall work. A statement of purpose, which should adhere to the guidelines listed in the journalism supplement attached to the general application, is also required. Cultural Reporting and Criticism applicants must complete the CRC essay in lieu of the statement of purpose.
International Applicants
Non-native English speakers must also take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) OR the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). The TOEFL or IELTS requirement is waived if your undergraduate or graduate degree was completed at an institution where the language of instruction is English.
GSAS recommends that applicants achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 100 on the internet-based test (equivalent to 250 on the computer-based test or 600 on the paper-based test). For the IELTS, a minimum overall band score of at least 7 is recommended.
It is recommended that all applicants take the test at least 10-12 weeks before the application deadline date to insure that test scores arrive by the deadline date. Official test scores must be sent to NYU-GSAS directly from Educational Testing Service (ETS). Request that scores be sent to NYU GSAS, institution code 2596.
You must receive your undergraduate degree (U.S. baccalaureate or equivalent) from an institution of recognized standing before enrollment in the Graduate School.
A three year bachelor’s degree from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh does not meet Graduate School requirements. Per Graduate School policy, students from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh must show completion of both the baccalaureate and one year of master’s examinations prior to registration in the Graduate School. Another option would be to complete a one year full time post bachelor’s diploma program.
Resources for International Students
Application Dates
Applications are accepted for fall admission only. Applications to each area of study, except BER, along with all applications for financial aid, must be received by January 4. Late applications will be accepted if space remains available.
Business & Economic Reporting (BER) will consider applications received as late as May 1, but admissions are done on a rolling basis from January 4 and so applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
Areas of Study
Prospective students can apply to any of our ten areas of study.
Students planning to complete a joint degree must be accepted by both participating departments and should indicate on their application that they are interested in a joint degree program. Two separate applications are not required — a single application is reviewed by both departments. Any supplemental information or forms requested by individual departments are still required though.
In some cases students may be able to change their concentration once they’ve been admitted, but no one should count on being able to make such a change. Our admissions process is highly selective and most programs and concentrations fill quickly, so please give serious consideration to your choice. All changes must be approved by the director of graduate studies.
Need an Application?
Applications are available from the GSAS application resource center starting in late September.
Note: All application materials (including test score reports) should be sent directly to GSAS, not to the Carter Journalism Institute. Please visit the application resource center for further instructions.