CUNY Hunter College campus
CUNY Hunter College logo

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · Public · 16,289 students

Hunter College is located in the heart of Manhattan.

Acceptance rate

53.8%

SAT (mid 50%)

1100–1420

Avg net price

$2,984

after aid

Next deadline

Feb 1

RD

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and CUNY Hunter College’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. CUNY Hunter College admitted 53.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 11001420 on the SAT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what CUNY Hunter College actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Think Big, Create Connections

Our engaging classes challenge ambitious students to think critically and creatively, ask tough questions and consider problems from multiple perspectives.

Scholarship, service, and creative expression unite the campuses, providing rich interdisciplinary learning and career-building opportunities.

  • Our SchoolsArts & Sciences, Education, Health Professions, Nursing, Silberman School of Soc
  • 70+ Undergraduate DegreesWide-ranging, affordable, acclaimed, and student-centered graduate programs

Verified from hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu and hunter.cuny.edu.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Next deadlineFebruary 1, 2027 (RD)
  • Regular decisionFebruary 1, 2027

Verified from hunter.cuny.edu.

The essays

Supplemental essay prompts

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

  • Tell us something meaningful about yourself that is not reflected in your application. You may choose to speak about your interests, aspirations and/or background.

  • It is often said that the road to success is paved with setbacks. Tell us about a time you faced a challenge or obstacle. What did you learn from it, and how did it contribute to your success?

  • Share an essay on any topic. You may use an essay that you have previously written or one that discusses a topic of your choice.

  • Describe an experience/time that impacted your life. It could be when you learned something new, faced a situation that challenged you, or anything academic, personal, or professional related that has made an impact on you.

    Up to 500 words

  • Why do you want to go to college and what are some of your areas of academic interest or career goals? How does your specific Macaulay campus choice fit with those plans? What do you expect to contribute and gain from the campus-based and Macaulay communities?

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from hunter.cuny.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $13,905, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $2,984.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $63,163.

Verified from hunter.cuny.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Campus life

The feel of the place

On a Tuesday, you might join a Computer Science Club workshop, attend a guest lecture from the Distinguished Writers Series, or connect with peers in one of the many student clubs covering diverse int

Students experience a stimulating learning environment in the world's most exciting city, with resources and facilities that foster a vibrant student life.

UrbanDiverse interestsCommunity-focused

Quick answers

CUNY Hunter College FAQ

How hard is it to get into CUNY Hunter College?
Very hard. CUNY Hunter College admits 53.8% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1100 to 1420 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the CUNY Hunter College application deadline?
The next deadline is February 1, 2027 (RD). Regular Decision closes February 1, 2027.
How much does CUNY Hunter College cost?
The list price is about $13,905, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $2,984.
Is CUNY Hunter College worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $63,163 ten years after enrolling, and 59% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about CUNY Hunter College.

Spike answers from CUNY Hunter College’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.