NYC Gazette

The City University of New York (CUNY) announced a significant rise in freshman applications, receiving 55,050 during its recent fee waiver campaign from October 21 to November 15. This represents a 62% increase compared to the previous year's inaugural fee waiver period. During this time, CUNY sent letters to New York City high school seniors, offering acceptance to community colleges and encouraging applications to senior colleges. Year-to-date, overall applications have risen by 13%.

CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez emphasized the importance of this initiative: “By providing high school seniors with acceptance letters and fee waivers, we’re reminding them that a college education is not just available but waiting for them.” He added that the application figures highlight the value of CUNY's partnership with NYC Public Schools, aiming to ensure access to higher education for every student in New York City.

Statistics indicate that more than 80% of CUNY freshmen come from NYC Public Schools. However, 26% of these students do not enroll in college immediately after graduation, including many Black and Latino students. The letters sent are part of Governor Hochul’s statewide effort to address inequities in higher education. They offer admission to a CUNY community college and provide information about four-year colleges while highlighting the university's diversity, affordability, and quality. A link to the CUNY Net Price Calculator was also included for students to estimate eligibility for financial aid.

The surge in applications aligns with Chancellor Matos Rodríguez’s announcement during his State of the University Address regarding an overall enrollment increase at CUNY by 3%. This marks the second consecutive yearly growth, driven by a 4% rise in new graduate student enrollment—the first in four years—and a 6% increase at community colleges affected by pandemic-related declines.

CUNY stands as the largest urban public university in the nation, known for fostering social mobility and serving as an integral part of New York City's fabric. Established in 1847 as the first free public institution of higher education in the U.S., it currently comprises seven community colleges, eleven senior colleges, and seven graduate or professional institutions across New York City's five boroughs. The university educates over 240,000 undergraduate and graduate students annually and awards approximately 50,000 degrees each year.

More than 80% of its graduates remain in New York State, contributing significantly across various sectors while diversifying the city's workforce. The university's alumni and faculty have earned numerous accolades such as Nobel Prizes and MacArthur “genius” grants. CUNY continues its mission to deliver top-tier public education accessible to all students regardless of their financial background.

To learn more about CUNY's programs and initiatives, visit their official website at https://www.cuny.edu.