Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the General Studies Program?

A: The General Studies Program provides proactive academic support in mathematics and the sciences through weekly tutoring and advising sessions while students maintain a full-time course load. Students are selected by Admissions to participate in either an On-campus or Online pre-college summer program which is indicated in the formal acceptance letter from Admissions. At the end of the summer, having successfully completed either the On-Campus or Online pre-college summer program, students follow course catalog guidelines for their intended major in the fall and spring semesters. In each of those semesters, students continue to attend required weekly advising, tutoring, and up to two pass/fail GS courses per semester dedicated to enhancing time management and study skills. In order to be allowed to transfer into the major of their choice, General Studies students must earn 24 credits and a minimum grade point average of 2.0 ("C") by the end of their second semester.

Q: Who attends the pre-college summer program?

A:  Those students whose overall high school GPA is high but who lack certain courses in math, science and/or writing are chosen by the Admissions office to complete the mandatory six-week program with the purpose of fortifying the students' academic foundation.

Q. What happens if I am academically unsuccessful in the six-week pre-college summer program?

A: In the event that you do not successfully complete the Summer On-Campus or Summer Online  Program, you will not be permitted to continue at NYU-Poly. 

 Q: Why was I selected for the General Studies Program?

A: The Admissions Committee believes that your interest in and passion for the world of invention, innovation, science and mathematics would make you a valued and contributing member of the NYU-Poly community. However, we also believe that your academic success is contingent upon NYU-Poly providing you with the tools necessary to enhance your current foundational skills in order to succeed at NYU-Poly.  This is what the General Studies Program seeks to provide.

Q: Are all students who are not offered admission into their selected major selected for General Studies?

A: No. You have been selected because of your potential for success at NYU-Poly as evidenced by your previous academic success and motivation. No more than 100 students enter the General Studies Program each year.

Q: Is it possible for students to apply directly to the General Studies Program?

A: No. Students in the General Studies Program are selected by the Admissions Committee. You are one of a small group of highly qualified students selected for this program.

Q: I would like to transfer to NYU-Poly.  Am I eligible for the General Studies Program?

A: No. The General Studies Program is designed for students who are at the very beginning of their college careers.

Q: If I enroll in the NYU-Poly General Studies Program can I graduate with my bachelor’s degree in four years?

A: It is possible to do so, but you may need to take classes during the summer after your first year to graduate within a four-year time frame. The first year courses students take while in the General Studies Program fulfill the requirements of all majors offered at NYU-Poly. However, you can expect your first semester to have a reduced course load of 12 credits, and your second semester to have a maximum of 17 credits. Thus, to earn the credits required, students in the General Studies Program may need to enroll in summer courses after their first year to enable them to graduate within four years. (Please note that in most cases, no tuition is charged for first-year courses taken the summer after the first year).

Q: What if my GPA is below 2.0 at the end of my second semester of the General Studies Program?

A: In the event that your overall GPA falls below a 2.0 or you fail to complete at least 24 credits by the end of your second GS semester, the summer following your first year will be a probationary period during which you have a chance to meet minimum GS requirements. If you fail to earn at least a 2.0 and/or 24 credits by the end of that probationary summer, you will be dismissed from NYU-Poly. However, our rigorous initial admissions standards as well as the pro-active and structured weekly tutoring and advising sessions during your first year are designed to promote your success in pursuing your NYU-Poly degree as planned.

Q: What are the advantages and benefits of the General Studies Program?

A: The program promises a friendly, supportive structure that enables students to transition into a college life that is known for its rigorous academic program. The weekly advising sessions focus on developing time management skills, establishing study habits and helping students navigate the emotional hurdles that they often face when transitioning into university life. This ready-made community of students, advisors and peer-tutors feels like a home away from home, where student advocacy and support is the primary focus.

Q: Are charges for this program greater than those for other NYU-Poly programs?

A: No. Although there is a charge for on-campus housing, both the Summer On-Campus and Summer Online Programs are free of charge as are the support services (i.e., tutors and advisors).  Even courses taken to catch up with first-year curriculum the summer following the first year are free of charge in most cases to ensure that you stay on your four year graduation track.

Q:  I have AP and/or transfer credits.  Can these credits be applied to the General Studies Program?

A: No.  Although AP and/or transfer credits, if accepted by NYU-Poly, can apply toward graduation completion requirements, all credits for the General Studies Program, including any courses taken summer after the first year, must be completed on the NYU-Poly campus.

Q:  If I enroll in the General Studies Program am I still eligible to apply to the BS/MS program?

A: Yes.  All students who meet the academic requirements for the NYU-Poly BS/MS program may apply. 

Q:  If I enroll in the General Studies Program could I declare a dual major (e.g., Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering) or declare a minor?

A: Yes, with permission from each respective department. 

Q:  If I enroll in the General Studies Program could I transfer to the Honors Program?

A: No.  Like General Studies, the Honors Program is an admissions based program, meaning that you would have to be accepted directly into it by the Admissions office.

Q: Is it possible to change my original major after I complete the General Studies Program?

A: Yes; however, you will need to meet with your academic adviser prior to doing so.

Q: If I accept admission into the General Studies Program at NYU-Poly may I later transfer into a school of NYU?

A: Yes; however, you must first complete General Studies.  Then, you may apply to that school of NYU as an external candidate.

Q: What if I have more questions, whom do I contact?

 A: You may contact Melissa Barnes, Ph.D., Director of the General Studies Program:
E-mail: generalstudies@poly.edu
Phone: 718-260-3882