CUNY Graduate School and University Center admits approximately 38.6% of applicants, meaning roughly 2 in 5 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places the institution in the selective category, with admission standards that are competitive but accessible compared to the most elite institutions. The peer median admission rate of 84.6% highlights the significant difference between CUNY Graduate School's selectivity and typical four-year public institutions. While not among the most competitive schools nationally, this level of selectivity indicates that applicants should demonstrate strong academic preparation and clear program fit. The institution's specialized focus on graduate-level programs and professional training creates a different admission landscape than traditional undergraduate institutions. For prospective students, this selectivity level means that solid academic credentials and relevant experience are important, but admission remains achievable for well-prepared candidates. Students should treat CUNY Graduate School as a match or slight reach depending on their academic profile and program of interest. The specialized nature of many programs means that relevant experience and clear career goals may be as important as traditional academic metrics in the admission process.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
CUNY Graduate School enrolls 37.9% Pell-eligible students and 44.0% first-generation students, indicating the institution serves a diverse student body with significant representation from lower-income and first-generation backgrounds. These shares are notably higher than typical selective institutions, demonstrating the university's commitment to educational access alongside academic selectivity. The high first-generation share suggests that nearly half of enrolled students are the first in their families to attend college, reflecting the institution's role in expanding educational opportunity. The substantial Pell share indicates that over one-third of students come from families with limited financial resources, yet the institution maintains selective admission standards. This composition reflects the institution's mission as part of the CUNY system to serve New York's diverse population while maintaining academic quality. For prospective students from similar backgrounds, these statistics indicate that the institution actively enrolls students from diverse economic and educational backgrounds. First-generation students should know that 44.0% of enrolled students share their background, providing a supportive peer community. Students from lower-income families should consider the 37.9% Pell share when assessing fit and understanding the student body composition they will join.
Given CUNY Graduate School's 38.6% acceptance rate and specialized program focus, students seeking backup options should consider institutions with similar program offerings and career outcomes.
Strong options in your region with comparable outcomes.
CUNY Graduate School demonstrates strong support systems for student success, with a 46.8% completion rate among Pell-eligible students. While specific retention and overall completion rates are not available, the institution's focus on specialized programs and graduate-level training creates a different success framework than traditional undergraduate institutions. The Pell completion rate of 46.8% indicates that students from lower-income backgrounds face challenges but receive institutional support for degree completion. The specialized nature of the institution's programs means that success may be measured differently, with many students pursuing specific professional credentials or continuing to advanced graduate study. Approximately 35.5% of graduates continue to graduate school, suggesting that the institution serves as a stepping stone to advanced education for many students. This high rate of graduate school continuation indicates strong academic preparation and suggests that students who complete programs are well-positioned for further study. Students who gain admission can expect an environment focused on professional preparation and specialized training rather than traditional collegiate experiences. The diverse student body composition suggests strong peer support systems for students from various backgrounds pursuing common professional goals.
Similar quality tier in Northeast (#197 ranked)
Higher acceptance rates with similar career outcomes.
Similar quality tier (#208 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#212 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#213 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#218 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#221 ranked)
Build a balanced list with schools at different selectivity and price points.
Explore More Schools