Admission to NYU Abu Dhabi
with a $217,000 scholarship
Ruslan dreamed of getting into one of the world’s most prestigious universities, NYU Abu Dhabi’s Business Management program. The competition was colossal: the acceptance rate was only 4%, with 14,400 applications. But Ruslan was determined, and we began working full-time.
There were many activities, but they were disparate and not entirely relevant. I needed to systematize my achievements and strengthen my personal brand.
After a thorough profile analysis, we developed a strategy that helped Ruslan stand out from thousands of other candidates.
Strengthened leadership experience: President of Students’ Union, management of school projects and volunteering.
We added activities: running a business club and a school business magazine, winning school Olympiads in economics, mathematics, and physics, participating in the Global Small Business Forum and the Young Activists Summit (UN).
Helped launch an educational platform for language learning.
Expanded my professional experience: HR Manager, Co-Founder and CEO of a non-profit organization, teaching at a school business and financial literacy club.
We received letters of recommendation. Ruslan worked part-time at StudyUP Global, which allowed him to receive a valuable letter.
Wrote a motivational essay linking personal challenges to an interest in education and entrepreneurship.
We systematized our achievements and submitted an application through the Common App.
We identified suitable scholarships and conducted funding negotiations.
Ruslan was accepted to three prestigious universities in the US and UAE: Lynn, Drexel, and NYU Abu Dhabi. The total scholarships offered were $324,000.
Ruslan accepted an offer from NYU Abu Dhabi, receiving $217,000 in funding.
This case is proof that even universities with minimal chances of admission can be accepted on the first try if you develop the right strategy and develop your personal brand.
Review by Ruslan
