Back to New York University
tatiaopm
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Academics

daughter was recently accepted to NYU CAS as a Biology major and we’ve been looking at the first-year course requirements. Based on what we’re seeing, it looks like she may have classes almost every day, often starting in the mornings. Is that typical for NYU freshmen, or are we misunderstanding the sample schedules? Thanks!

As a first-year Biology major at NYU, your daughter can expect a rigorous schedule that often includes classes nearly every day, particularly in the mornings. This is standard for students in the sciences due to the nature of the coursework and lab requirements.

Course Load

First-semester Biology majors typically enroll in:

  • Principles of Biology I (4 credits)
  • General Chemistry I & Lab (5 credits)
  • Calculus I (4 credits)
  • First-Year Seminar (4 credits)
These courses demand significant time commitments, with science classes usually consisting of two 75-minute lectures per week, along with mandatory recitations and labs. For instance, Chemistry courses can require up to 10 hours of in-class time weekly when considering lectures, labs, and recitation sections.

Morning Classes

Many of these courses are scheduled during daytime hours, which often results in early start times. This structure is designed to accommodate the intensive nature of the science curriculum, ensuring students receive the necessary foundational knowledge and skills.

For more detailed information about course requirements and sample schedules, you can refer to the NYU Biology (BA) Bulletin and the NYU CAS Sample Schedules.

Recent questions at New York University

meanings_unknown_22
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Dining

My student missed the February 2 meal plan change deadline; is there any way to adjust it now for the spring semester

If your student missed the February 2 deadline for changing their meal plan for the spring semester, there are still potential avenues to explore for adjustments.

Contact Ask Campus Services The first step is to reach out to Ask Campus Services as soon as possible. Since the online portal for meal plan changes typically closes after the deadline, direct communication is essential. You can contact them via:

  • Email: AskCampusServices@nyu.edu
  • Phone: 212-998-4900
Make sure to include the student's full name and NYU ID number to expedite the process.

Exceptions for Special Circumstances NYU generally does not allow exceptions to meal plan policies unless there are documented reasons, such as:

  • Medical or Disability Accommodations: If the change is due to a medical condition, submit a special accommodations form with documentation to the Moses Center for Student Accessibility.
  • Dietary Needs: For students with specific dietary restrictions, consult with the NYU Eats Registered Dietitian for assistance.
Financial Considerations If a change is approved, be aware that any adjustments will be prorated based on the date of the change, and unused Dining Dollars from the fall semester will only roll over if the student maintains an active meal plan.

BelgianSways
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Admissions

For a sophomore looking at summer research, are there still open spots in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) after the February 2 deadline

For sophomores interested in summer research opportunities at New York University, while the primary Vilcek Institute Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) deadline was February 2, 2026, several other programs are still accepting applications.

Programs Still Accepting Applications

  • Tandon Undergraduate Summer Research Program (UGSRP): Applications are open until February 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
  • Simons Foundation Biology SURP: Deadline is February 15, 2026.
  • Plastic Surgery Summer Research Program: Applications accepted until February 15, 2026.
  • Simons Center for Computational Physical Chemistry SURP: Applications due by March 1, 2026.
  • Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) - Math: Application portal opens on February 2 and closes on March 2, 2026.
  • Musculoskeletal Research Center SURP: Applications are due by March 20, 2026.
How to Apply

Each program has its own application portal, so it is essential to apply through the specific links provided by each department. If you missed the Vilcek deadline due to extenuating circumstances, consider contacting Vilcek-Info@NYULangone.org or admissions@nyu.edu to inquire about a possible late extension. Most programs require an unofficial transcript, a resume/CV, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.

Anonymous
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Campus life

How many grad tickets do we get? And is there one big commencement or is it separated by departments?

Graduation at New York University consists of two main events: the All-University Commencement and individual school-specific ceremonies, each requiring separate tickets.

All-University Commencement

This large ceremony takes place at Yankee Stadium, where graduates can order:

  • 1 ticket for themselves
  • Up to 2 guest tickets
School-Specific Ceremonies

Each department holds its own ceremony, with ticket allotments varying by school. For instance:

  • CAS Baccalaureate: 2 guest tickets
  • Tisch Salute: 2 guest tickets
  • Stern (Graduate): Up to 3 guest tickets
  • Wagner Convocation: Up to 4 guest tickets
Most schools also offer a lottery for additional tickets, though extra tickets are not guaranteed. The All-University Commencement celebrates all graduates together, while individual ceremonies recognize graduates individually, allowing them to walk across the stage NYU Commencement.

Explore all New York University questions