
CUNY Hunter College
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
Testing
Optional
2026 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the CUNY Hunter College admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
CUNY Hunter College admitted 53.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1100–1420 on the SAT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what CUNY Hunter College actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
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
Here’s what to send, and when.
- Next deadlineFebruary 1, 2027 (RD)
- Regular decisionFebruary 1, 2027
- TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
Verified from hunter.cuny.edu.
The essays
Here are the supplemental essay prompts.
The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll 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 will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $13,905. That isn’t 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.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Psychology, General18% of degrees
- Human Biology11% of degrees
- Computer Science8% of degrees
- Biology, General6% of degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing5% of degrees
- Sociology5% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s 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.
Quick answers
What do people ask about CUNY Hunter College?
- Is CUNY Hunter College test-optional?
- For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at CUNY Hunter College is optional.
- How hard is it to get into CUNY Hunter College?
- Very hard. CUNY Hunter College admits 53.8% of applicants. 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. After aid, families pay $2,984 on average.
- Is CUNY Hunter College worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $63,163 ten years after enrolling. 59% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
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Ask Spike anything about CUNY Hunter College.
Spike answers from CUNY Hunter College’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.