Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions by parents and families arranged by topic. If you don't find the question you want to ask, you can always call the Parents & Families Helpline at 212.998.4219 (Monday—Friday, 9AM to 5PM ET) or email us at parents@nyu.edu.
Jump To:
Breaks, Holidays, Closures, & Religious Observances |
Commuters & Off-Campus Living | Health Services & Insurance | International Students & Study Away | Meal Plans, Dining Dollars, Campus Cash | Orientation, NYU Welcome, & Registration | Alumni & Parents Day/Weekend | Residence Halls & Move-In | Student Accounts & Guest Access | Student Employment | Transportation | Miscellaneous
FAQs
When are the School Breaks?
Dates and deadlines are available on the NYU Academic Calendar. Note that classes are scheduled as usual the day before holiday breaks, however University offices usually close at 4PM. The University only closes on specific holidays and is open for business during the summer, Fall and Spring Breaks, and part of the Winter Recess.
When will students be done with finals so a trip home for the holidays can be booked?
The final exam schedule is available on the NYU Academic Calendar. Students should refer to their course syllabus, consult their professors, or check their Student Center in Albert for the exact time and day of each final exam. The final exam schedule is made available well in advance of the beginning of each term should students want to use that information in creating their schedule for the semester. Sitting for final exams as scheduled in the final exam period is an important academic obligation and cannot be excused because of travel plans. Students should therefore be sure to check their final exam schedules before booking their end-of-semester travel arrangements.
How does my student know if the University will be closed or classes cancelled due to inclement weather?
In the event the university closes or classes are cancelled due to inclement weather, students will be notified via email, and in some cases, text message. Students can also call the Information Alert Line located on the back of their ID (212.998.1220) for messages. Information will also be posted on the NYU website. Encouraging your student to provide their cell phone number in their Albert student record will insure they receive a phone or text message. Another helpful resource is the NYU Safe App which students can download to their phone.
Are students excused from classes for religious observances?
New York University, as a nonsectarian institution, adheres to the general policy of including in its official calendar only certain legal holidays. Students who anticipate being absent because of any religious observance should notify their faculty in advance of such anticipated absence. Faculty are asked, that whenever feasible, examinations and assignment deadlines not be scheduled on religious holidays. Any student absent from class because of religious beliefs shall not be penalized for any class, examination, or assignment deadline missed on that day or days. If examinations or assignment deadlines are scheduled, any student who is unable to attend class because of religious beliefs shall be given the opportunity to make up that day or days. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to any student who avails themself of the above provisions.
What resources are available for commuter students?
Commuter and Off-Campus Student Programs at the Student Resource Center supports students through programs and services specifically designed for commuters. Social and educational programs connect commuters with each other, residential students, and campus resources.
Major programs and resources include information on discounts for commuting, use of a kitchen, computers, and lounge, reserved lockers, and the sponsorship of overnight accommodations near campus for commuters. All new commuter students are assigned a “Commuter Assistant,” an upper-level student who will assist new commuters with navigating NYU and making friends and connections with other NYU students.
Does NYU provide assistance to students who want to live off-campus?
NYU offers off-campus living resources to current and newly-admitted NYU students who are seeking private off campus apartment rentals. NYU does not have "off-campus" facilities. Resources include links to apartment search websites, market and neighborhood information, and other relevant information.
New Jersey Transit offers students enrolled full-time, a 25% discount for monthly passes. The NJT discount portal will be visible for students who meet the enrollment requirements as set by NJ Transit on NYU Home.
What are NYU’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements?
All students are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive a booster within seven days of becoming eligible. Students must upload proof of vaccination to the SHC Portal and have their documentation reviewed by the Immunization Team, which generally takes 3-5 days. Plan ahead to be sure your student completes these requirements on time.
Complete information about COVID-19 vaccine requirements and distribution is available on the COVID-19 Vaccine page.
What are the health and immunization requirements—and when are they due?
The Health Requirements website will guide you through mandatory health and immunization requirements, tasks, and deadlines your student must complete before they start at NYU.
Can students use the Student Health Center even if they don't have NYU-sponsored health insurance?
Yes. All matriculated students in a degree-granting program have access to the SHC, regardless of insurance. The SHC offers medical, counseling, health promotion, and pharmacy services and provides accessibility accommodations to students with disabilities.
My student is covered on my insurance plan. Can I waive the NYU insurance?
Most students are automatically enrolled in—and charged for—NYU-sponsored student health insurance. Students who maintain alternate health insurance coverage that meets the University’s minimum health insurance criteria may waive the NYU-sponsored student health insurance plan entirely. Students must complete the online enrollment/waiver process each academic year by the deadline to waive the NYU-sponsored plan, ensure that they are enrolled in the plan of their choice, or supplement their current insurance with an NYU-sponsored plan.
Review the Student Health Insurance website and Student Health Insurance FAQs for complete information and deadlines.
Where can I find information on visas for international students?
Families of international students should refer to this international student immigration resource. Managed by the Office of Global Services, the resource highlights immigration items for families to be aware of before, during, and after studies at NYU. Have a visit to get more familiar with international student requirements, timelines, and optional benefits students can take advantage of.
How can I support my student during study abroad/study away?
Parents and family members form an integral part of the study abroad experience by supporting their student’s choice to embark on this academic and life-enriching endeavor. A variety of helpful resources, from applying, to costs, student experiences, and information on our sites around the world. Find study abroad information for families here.
Which meal plan should my student select?
NYU requires all first-year students living in NYU housing to participate in the NYU Dining meal plan program. All first-years living in traditional-style residence halls — Founders, Brittany, Goddard, Lipton, Rubin and Weinstein — must maintain a minimum of a 225 Flex plan or higher. First-years living in apartment-style residence buildings must maintain a minimum of a 120 Flex meal plan or higher. To learn more about Meal Plan options please visit our Meal Plan website.
What is the difference between Campus Cash and Dining Dollars?
Campus Cash is a debit-card-like feature of the NYU student ID, the NYUCard. Parents or students may deposit funds online into a student’s Campus Cash account. Campus Cash can be used at a variety of locations, including vending, NYU Bookstore, Skirball Theater and Box Office, Print and Mail, as well as all NYU Dining locations.
Dining Dollars are also stored on the NYUCard, and are a part of NYU Meal Plans. Dining Dollars can be used only for purchases in NYU Dining Halls, Cafes and C-Stores. For a complete list of locations and hours visit NYUEats.com.
If my student has a severe food allergy, what are their options?
NYU Dining Services offers a variety of meal plans and dining options. We work diligently with students who have food allergies to develop a dining plan that accommodates their needs and provide menus with a variety of food selections. Please contact us at nyu.eats.nutrition@nyu.edu for specific questions or to set up an appointment to discuss your dining restrictions, or find more information in our Food Allergen Guide (PDF).
What’s NYU Welcome and what’s the difference between NYU Welcome and school orientation?
NYU Welcome is a University-wide program for all new and returning undergraduate and graduate students. It is designed to complement a student’s school orientation which runs concurrently. Welcome events provide students with opportunities to meet new people, get to know NYU, experience New York City, and have an exciting start to the Fall semester.
What if my student misses Welcome events?
We hope that they don’t, but if necessary, have the student stop by the Center for Student Life to speak with a student or staff member about resources that were provided. Students should also contact their school regarding orientation programs they may have missed.
Other students I know have registered for class and my student hasn’t. When will they register and will they get into the classes they want?
The registration period varies per school, but for the most part, will occur during the month of June for new students. Students are notified by their school/department advisor through their NYU email account. Advisors are also available to assist with questions. For additional information and school-specific contacts, please refer to the School Registration & Orientation page.
What happens on Parents Weekend?
Alumni and Parents Weekend offers opportunities to learn about your student’s experience at NYU. Programs include academic presentations by Deans and faculty members, information sessions from student services offices, and a number of alumni presentations.
Do I need to register for Parents Weekend?
Yes, we ask that you register for the day to help us gauge attendance.
My student has midterms at this time. Why is Parents Weekend scheduled around midterms?
We don't actually plan to schedule the program around midterms — in fact, it varies per student and per class as to when midterms or papers are scheduled by professors. There is not one unified midterm exam period.
I am unable to attend this year. Can I attend next year?
You are certainly welcome to attend next year, just note that the program is focused on the student's first year — especially the morning academic program. If you would like to attend, send us an email during the summer and we will add you to our mailing list, or check the Parents & Families webpages for dates and RSVP information.
Do parents/families get to meet their student's teachers or advisers on Parents Weekend?
Unlike primary and secondary school (K-12), the relationship with professors and advisers at college is between the student and the professor or adviser. As a parent or family member, encouraging your student to get to know their professor by meeting them during office hours or after class will go a long way in developing a good relationship. You should also encourage your student to meet with their adviser at least twice a semester to discuss academic progress and a pre-registration strategy for the following semester.
When will I receive my housing assignment?
Students usually receive their room assignment mid to late July. With the housing assignment, students will also receive "Move-In Day'' instructions with parking information, tips on what to bring and arrival times with their room assignment. Information about roommates will be included in the housing notification which is communicated via email. Students will also receive a move-in appointment time. See the NYU Welcome page for dates and deadlines. Housing cancellation and room change information is available.
What is Move-In Day like?
Approximately 5000 new students will be moving into NYU residence halls on the same day, which makes check-in exciting and very busy. Students will receive a move-in time with their housing assignment, so keeping with the assigned time helps to make the process smoother for everyone. Staff will be on hand to assist with unloading cars, parking directions, and carts. To make the process a bit smoother, remember that many items can be purchased in the city or delivered to the residence hall after the student has moved in. Visit the NYU Welcome dates and deadlines page for information on the specific activities that compliment Move-In Day.
Is there anything going on for parents and family on Move-In Day or during NYU Welcome?
Parents are invited to attend programs on move-in day, which include an Information Fair, Parents/Families Welcomes and receptions. Details will be provided in summer mailings and at check-in. Note that there are no programs for parents and families beyond Move-In Day.
Are there places to buy towels, sheets, etc?
Major stores such as Home Depot, Lowes, Best Buy, Marshalls, Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Target, ACE Hardware, Basics, as well as many local discount stores are located in the NYU area. Many offer discounts and specials to students during check-in, as well as delivery services. There will also be shuttles available on move-in day to several major stores. Details will be available at check-in.
Where can students find a list of allowable items to bring to NYU?
Visit the Residence Halls page for specific information.
For students flying into New York, what should they do about shipping things?
Packages may be shipped directly to the residence hall, however, they cannot arrive before the student has checked into the residence hall.
Does NYU provide summer storage?
Storage is not available during the summer. However, residence hall staff can provide a list of local storage vendors who are not affiliated with the university.
Can students stay in their room over breaks?
The residence hall contract allows students to stay throughout the year in the residence hall until checkout in May. This includes holidays and breaks. The buildings are staffed and security is present 24/7.
How can I view my student's financial accounts and make sure I get the bill on time?
Access to student financial information and billing requires the student to provide access to their parent/guardian. The following links will provide you with the process:
- NYU Electronic (e)Suite: access to the student’s account and allows for electronic check payments.
- Campus Cash: Used across campus in vending machines, dining halls, and the Bookstore through the NYUCard and serves as an alternative to carrying cash and credit cards. Account information and deposit instructions are available on the website.
How can I access my student's information?
Students have the option to provide other individuals (proxies) select access to their Albert records, which includes information like transcripts, grades, class schedules, emergency contact, and other information. Students can create and manage guest users only on the Albert Mobile website, which is accessible from desktop browsers as well.
For access to view student tuition and housing bills, as well as make payments, a request for access is required and can be made using Electronic(e)Suite.
How can I verify my student’s enrollment for insurance or other reasons?
Students can view/print an enrollment certificate directly from Albert.
How do students find jobs?
The Wasserman Center for Career Development provides a full range of services and resources (both virtual and in-person) to help students explore their interests, find internships, get an on-campus job, and launch their dream career after graduation. Through Handshake, the NYU Wasserman Center online career portal, students can search and apply for on-campus and work-study jobs & internships. They can also sign up for one-on-one career coaching for help creating a resume, choosing a major, developing a search strategy, and more. Some of the larger campus employers include NYU Dining, Athletics, the Library, NYU Bookstore, or even the academic department relative to a student’s course of study. New incoming students are granted access to Handshake approximately one month before their classes begin.
What's the deal with work-study?
The Federal Work-Study program lets students hold part-time jobs on campus. A student's financial Aid package will indicate if they were awarded work-study — it's based on their financial need as indicated on their FAFSA. Students can accept or decline this option when they accept their aid package. Work-study is actually money a student must earn through employment. NYU covers 25% of the pay, while the government covers the other 75% — this allows the University to offer many more student employment positions. For more information about a student's work-study status, reach out to Financial Aid.
Does NYU provide transportation from the airports?
NYU does not currently provide transportation from airports. However, there are avariety of very reliable options available from all airports – taxis, Uber/Lyft, car-service, shuttle buses, and buses from major transportation hubs. Additionally, travel is available via subway and train.
Which airport should I fly into?
We suggest going with the airport that is most convenient and economical for you, providing the most direct flight options. The three major airports — Newark, LaGuardia, and Kennedy — are all in similar proximity to Manhattan (New York City). All airports offer a variety of transportation options.
Does NYU provide campus transportation?
Campus Transportation Services are available daily while classes are in session from university facilities (primarily student residences further away). For routes and other information, go to the University Transportation page. Schedules are available on the NYU Mobile app.
Additionally, while classes are in session, free overnight Safe Ride Service is operated 7 days per week, from midnight to 7AM.
Does my student need a subway card?
For travel around NYC, students will likely take a NYC bus or subway that does require a MetroCard. Pay-Per-Ride options are available and in most cases, the better option than purchasing a monthly card unless they will use it at least 7 days a week and two or more times per day. Another option is EasyPay, which will automatically add trips to a MetroCard when the balance is running low.
Are there any New Jersey Transit discounts?
Students enrolled full-time and commuting from New Jersey may purchase a 25% discounted monthly pass through the NYU portal located in NYU Home (note that it will only be visible to students enrolled full-time in classes). Only NJT offers a college student discount.
What type of tech resources are available for students?
Visit the Student Tech Guide page for information about printing, computer labs, access to internet, email, software and more!
What banks are around NYU?
When considering which bank to use in NYC, parents/families should think about bank chains that are located in their hometown first and then close to where their student will be living while at NYU. As students will only live around Washington Square their first year, a branch that has multiple locations in the city will be the most convenient in the long run.
Also, a bank in the student's hometown and in New York City allows even more convenience for parents to make deposits and assist with transactions. Visit our Banking in NYC page for additional information.
What hotels are around NYU?
There are limited lodging options in the immediate NYU area, so don't limit yourself to just the area around campus. NYU is easily accessible by most bus lines, subway lines, and the NJ Path Train.
We suggest utilizing a travel agent or many of the online resources to search for hotels in New York City that meet your specific budget and accommodation needs.
If you're not sure where to start, please visit the Admissions website which provides a listing of year round discounted hotels.