
Brooklyn, NYpublicwww.citytech.cuny.edu/
CUNY New York City College of Technology (City Tech) is a public institution in Brooklyn that thrives on its mission of accessibility and career-focused education. With an 80% acceptance rate and a strong emphasis on technology and applied sciences, City Tech serves a diverse student body, many of whom balance work and studies. Its location at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge places students in the heart of New York City’s tech and creative industries.
City Tech maintains an 80.3% acceptance rate, making it one of the more accessible CUNY schools. In 2024, the college received 24,745 applications and admitted 19,867 students, with 14,486 enrolling. The admissions process is rolling, but the priority deadline for the Spring semester is September 15th. While standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, the college emphasizes broad access, aligning with its mission to serve a diverse urban population.
City Tech offers 26 associate and 32 baccalaureate degree programs, blending technical training with liberal arts. Its three schools—Technology & Design, Arts & Sciences, and Professional Studies—cater to over 6,000 students in fields like Software Engineering Technology, where graduates gain hands-on skills in computing and engineering.
A commuter-heavy campus, City Tech’s social scene is low-key, with students often prioritizing jobs or studies over extracurriculars. The college fosters inclusivity, but Reddit threads note that making friends requires effort outside class. The Student Life & Development office organizes events to build community, though the urban setting means much of students’ lives unfold beyond campus.
City Tech’s graduation rate is 19% overall, but students in CUNY’s ASAP program (which provides financial and academic support) graduate at 47.4% within three years. Median earnings one year post-graduation are $36,427, competitive for associate and technical degree holders.
With an average net price of $5,417/year after aid, City Tech is one of the most affordable options in NYC. Financial aid includes grants, loans, and work-study, with grants covering significant portions of tuition for eligible students.
City Tech’s location in downtown Brooklyn and strong industry connections make it a pipeline for NYC’s tech and creative sectors. Its high acceptance rate and low cost democratize access to STEM education, though graduation rates reflect the challenges of its commuter population. The ASAP program’s success shows how targeted support can transform outcomes for First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. and working students.