
160 Convent Avenue, New York City, NY 10031-9198, USA


The City University of New York City College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a recognized regional accrediting agency. This accreditation confirms that the institution meets established standards of quality in terms of academic programs, faculty qualifications, administrative capacity, and student services. For prospective students, accreditation by Middle States ensures that credits earned are generally transferable and that degrees awarded hold recognition by employers and other educational institutions.
In addition to institutional accreditation, many individual programs at the City University of New York City College have received specialized accreditation from professional organizations relevant to their fields. This layered accreditation supports the academic rigor and professional relevance of specific curricula, which can be significant when selecting a program aligned with career goals.
Admission to CUNY City College requires applicants to have completed a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Applicants must submit their secondary school records and have a required grade point average from their high school studies. While a specific class rank is not mandatory, it is recommended to strengthen the application. Submission of recommendations and demonstration of certain competencies are also advised but not compulsory.
Applicants must present evidence of having completed a college preparatory program. The university requires proof of English language proficiency through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for those who do not have English as their first language. Other standardized tests are recommended but not required. The institution does not follow an open admission policy, meaning meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission, as the process is selective.
Advanced Placement credits and transfer credits are accepted, and dual credit options are not offered. There is no obligation for applicants to own or lease a computer as part of the admissions process.
CUNY City College receives a very high number of applications each year, with over 31,900 applicants, placing it in the top 10% for application volume nationally. Around 18,600 students are admitted, reflecting a selective acceptance rate of approximately 58%, which ranks in the bottom 30% for acceptance rates, indicating moderate selectivity. Of those admitted, about 2,700 enroll, which is in the top 20% nationally for enrollment yield.
The application fee for prospective students applying to CUNY City College is set to cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. Applicants are required to pay this non-refundable fee when submitting their materials. However, the college offers fee waivers to eligible students who demonstrate financial need or meet certain criteria, easing the financial burden of applying.
The fee waiver program is designed to support applicants from low-income backgrounds, as well as those who receive public assistance or participate in specific educational programs. Students may request a waiver during the application process, usually by submitting relevant documentation or by indicating eligibility based on provided guidelines.
Additionally, certain groups such as veterans or alumni may qualify for fee exemptions, although the exact policies can vary and applicants are encouraged to verify eligibility requirements directly with the admissions office or through official resources. These provisions ensure that the cost of the application does not become a barrier for qualified candidates seeking admission to the college.
CUNY City College hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with opportunities to participate in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs directly as part of their college experience. This presence enables students interested in pursuing military leadership training alongside their academic studies to access ROTC resources and activities without needing to commute to another institution. The availability of an on-campus ROTC unit reflects a commitment to integrating military education within the broader collegiate environment at CUNY City College.
City University of New York City College welcomes transfer students in all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer. The institution considers transfer credits from various sources, accepting both subject-specific and general College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) credits as well as credits earned through the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program.
Applicants transferring to City University of New York City College face a moderately difficult admission process, reflecting a selective but accessible standard. The college also accepts letters of recommendation as part of the transfer application, which may support an applicant's candidacy.
CUNY City College offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to complement its academic programs and provide students with global perspectives. These programs typically include faculty-led short-term trips, semester exchanges, and collaborative international projects that allow students to earn credit while experiencing different cultures firsthand. The study abroad options cover diverse regions and disciplines, offering students chances to visit partner institutions and engage in immersive learning environments.
Students can choose from programs focused on language acquisition, cultural studies, science, and the arts, among others. Many of these opportunities are structured to accommodate students' academic schedules and financial considerations, with scholarships or funding options occasionally available to support participation. The college emphasizes fostering global citizenship and intercultural understanding as key outcomes of its study abroad initiatives.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer