University Neighborhood High School
1. General Information
About University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School (UNHS) is a public high school located on Monroe Street in Manhattan, New York City. Founded in 1999 in partnership with New York University, the school operates in a historic Beaux-Arts building and serves as a bridge between its surrounding lower-income neighborhood and higher education institutions. UNHS is deeply committed to college readiness: its mission includes preparing students to be global citizens through rigorous academics, university and business partnerships, and robust social-emotional support.
The school offers a caring and inclusive environment where students receive both challenge and support; advisory programs, counseling, and academic interventions help ensure each student’s holistic development. The early college program is particularly strong: many students graduate not only from high school but with credit toward college, thanks to UNHS’s collaborations with partner institutions. Through this combination of high expectations and strong support structures, UNHS empowers students to succeed in higher education and in life beyond school.
Contact Informations – University Neighborhood High School
Address: 200 Monroe Street, New York, NY 10002
Phone Number: 212-962-4341
Fax: 212-267-5611
Principal: Matthew Willie
Parent Coordinator: Anaise Medina
University Neighborhood High School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1999 |
| School Type | Public High School, Grades 9–12 |
| District | New York City Geographic District 1 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~12:1 ( |
| Enrollment | ~481 students |
| Graduation Rate | 100% (4-year) per school website (universityneighborhoodhighschool.org) |
University Neighborhood High School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| State / City (NY) | Ranked in top 30% of New York public schools for testing outcomes |
| Niche U.S. Standout High Schools | 30 out of ~2,695 nationally |
| Niche College Prep Public High Schools (NY) | 90 of ~1,173 in New York |
2. University Neighborhood High School Academics
University Neighborhood High School Faculties / Departments
• English / Language Arts
• Mathematics
• Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• Social Studies / History
• World Languages
• Fine & Performing Arts
• Physical Education
• Technology / Computer Science
• Guidance / Counseling / College Support
• Early College / University Partnership Programs
University Neighborhood High School Courses and Programs / Majors
• College-prep English Literature and Composition
• Algebra, Geometry, and Advanced Mathematics
• Life Sciences, Chemistry, Physics
• U.S. History, World History, Government
• Spanish Language / Other Languages
• Visual Arts, Music, Theater
• Computer Science / Digital Literacy
• Physical Education and Health
• Advisory and Leadership Seminars
• Early College Courses (through NYU, Baruch, BMCC, etc.) (universityneighborhoodhighschool.org)
Online Learning at University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School primarily offers in-person instruction; online learning serves as a supplement rather than a full virtual track. Digital platforms are used for homework, research, and enrichment, and students can access online resources for college coursework given UNHS’s strong university partnerships. During special circumstances, remote learning has been deployed for academic continuity, but the school’s model centers on face-to-face collaboration, advisory meetings, and project-based learning supported by faculty and counselors.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Approximate / Typical Performance |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not publicly reported for all students (focus is on college readiness rather than selective test scores) |
| ACT | Not broadly reported |
| State Regents / Standardized Tests | Mathematics proficiency ~55–59%; Reading / Language Arts proficiency ~75–79% according to PublicSchoolReview |
Retention and Graduation Rates – University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School boasts a 100% four-year graduation rate, as stated on its official site. (universityneighborhoodhighschool.org) This exceptional completion rate underscores the school’s strong support systems, including counseling, college readiness programs, and continuous academic interventions. The high retention and graduation performance point to a school environment that not only holds students to high standards but actively supports them in meeting those standards, ensuring that virtually every student who enrolls in 9th grade completes high school ready for further education.
3. University Neighborhood High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range – University Neighborhood High School
As a public school, University Neighborhood High School does not use GPA cutoffs, SAT, or ACT scores as part of an admissions process in the same way universities do. Admission is generally based on district policies, student interest, and seat availability, rather than selective academic screening.
University Neighborhood High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Value / Explanation |
|---|---|
| Admission / Acceptance Rate | Open enrollment (public high school), not selective; depends on geographic district, applications, and seat availability |
University Neighborhood High School Application Requirements
Applying to University Neighborhood High School typically involves completing the New York City public school’s standard enrollment process for high school. Families must submit proof of residency, previous academic records (middle school transcripts or report cards), and student information during the NYC high school application cycle. Because UNHS emphasizes college readiness, prospective students and families may consider the school for its partnership with NYU and its early college opportunities, but there is no requirement to submit essays or test results for eligibility. The process is designed to be accessible, reflecting the school’s mission to serve its local community.
Application Process – University Neighborhood High School
• Complete NYC public school application during high school choice period
• Submit academic records from middle school
• Provide proof of New York City residency
• List UNHS as a preferred choice on New York City’s high school application platform
• Attend any optional open house or school visit session
• Receive assignment based on NYC DOE match process
University Neighborhood High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Timeline / Notes |
|---|---|
| High School Application Opens | Usually in Winter (as part of NYC DOE high school choice) |
| High School Application Deadline | Typically in late Winter |
| Admission Notification | Early Spring via NYC DOE assignment system |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Spring, according to NYC DOE process |
Essay Prompt – University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School does not require an essay as part of the admissions process because it operates under the NYC public school system that uses a matching and assignment system rather than college-style selective admissions.
University Neighborhood High School Scholarships
Because UNHS is a public high school, students do not pay tuition, and there are no school-specific scholarships in the same way as a college would offer. However, UNHS strongly supports students in applying for external scholarships and financial aid once they graduate, leveraging its partnerships with universities, community colleges, and other organizations to prepare students for funding higher education.
University Neighborhood High School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost / Note |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free |
| Activity Fees | Minimal or typical for public high schools; varies by program |
| Additional Costs | Books, school supplies, some field trips (if applicable) |
4. Student Profile and Demographics – University Neighborhood High School
Student Demographics
University Neighborhood High School serves approximately 481 students in grades 9–12. According to demographic data, about 52.8% of students are male and 47.0% are female. The school is racially and ethnically diverse: approximately 47.6% Hispanic/Latino, 29.3% Asian, 14.3% Black or African American, 7.7% White, and a small fraction identifying as two or more races. The average student age ranges from about 14 to 18, typical for U.S. high school students.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
University Neighborhood High School participates in Title I, meaning a substantial portion of its students come from low-income backgrounds and the school receives extra federal funding to support them. The school also supports students with disabilities — the public school data shows that there are students receiving special education and 504 accommodations, though precise percentages vary year to year. UNHS provides resources such as academic support, counseling, and accommodations to facilitate inclusive learning and equitable opportunities.
Student Body – University Neighborhood High School
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~ 481 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~12:1 |
| Grades | 9–12 |
University Neighborhood High School Diversity
The diversity of University Neighborhood High School is one of its defining strengths. With nearly 93% minority enrollment (primarily Hispanic and Asian students), the school reflects the multicultural fabric of Manhattan’s Lower East Side and Chinatown neighborhoods. This rich blend of backgrounds fosters a learning environment where cross-cultural communication, empathy, and inclusive perspectives are part of daily life. The school’s mission explicitly embraces students regardless of socioeconomic status, immigration status, gender identity, religion, or disability — ensuring a culture of belonging and respect. Advisory programs, peer mentoring, and inclusive counseling initiatives help reinforce these values, creating a supportive community that values the uniqueness of each student. Such diversity not only enriches academic discussion but also prepares students to navigate and lead in a globalized world.
Average Earnings
As a public high school, University Neighborhood High School does not track alumni earnings in the same way a university would report average graduate salaries. However, the school emphasizes college readiness through its early college program, which enables students to earn college credit, thereby reducing future educational debt. Many graduates go on to attend college — including partner institutions like NYU, Baruch College, and Borough of Manhattan Community College — positioning them well for professional success. The combination of rigorous academics, real-world experience, and early college credit contributes to strong long-term outcomes, helping graduates compete for meaningful higher education and career opportunities. While direct earnings data is not available, UNHS’s track record of college access suggests its alumni are well-prepared to succeed in postsecondary education and beyond.
5. University Neighborhood High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff – University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School employs a dedicated and skilled team of educators, counselors, and administrative staff committed to the success of every student. With approximately 39 classroom teachers serving its 481 students, the student-teacher ratio is low, enabling personalized instruction and close mentoring. The staff includes leadership such as the principal, assistant principals, and a parent-coordinator, plus support roles for social-emotional learning, guidance, and college planning. Their collaborative work ensures that students have access to academic resources, college advising, and personal support tailored to their needs.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at UNHS often bring strong academic backgrounds, particularly in urban education and college-preparatory teaching. Some have close ties to New York University, reflecting the school’s foundational partnership: in its early years, several founding staff members were NYU graduates. Teachers at UNHS design curriculum that integrates higher education pathways, working closely with university partners to deliver college-level content, advisory classes, and early college credit opportunities. Many staff are also deeply invested in community-building, social justice, and equity, fostering an environment where students not only gain academic skills but also develop leadership, resilience, and civic responsibility.
6. University Neighborhood High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing – University Neighborhood High School
University Neighborhood High School is situated in a historic Beaux-Arts building on Monroe Street in Manhattan, offering an urban campus experience deeply rooted in community and history. There is no student housing—like most public high schools, students commute daily from the surrounding Lower East Side and Chinatown neighborhoods. The school building provides a variety of spaces for learning and student life: classrooms, labs, advisory rooms, and gathering areas.
Students engage in rigorous academics but also benefit from a sense of local identity and belonging; the school’s compact, neighborhood-based setting fosters close relationships between peers and staff. Extracurricular options, college-prep advisories, and mentoring programs contribute to a rich campus life, enabling students to build meaningful bonds and participate actively in their school community.
Transportation – University Neighborhood High School
Given its location in Lower Manhattan, University Neighborhood High School is easily accessible by public transportation. Students can reach the campus via multiple subway lines, buses, and walking from nearby neighborhoods. The daily commute is manageable for many, and the urban setting supports pedestrian mobility. Because UNHS serves students in its local district, many families also rely on walking or public transit rather than private cars. On campus, students move between classrooms, advisory sessions, and college-prep workshops in a dense building layout that emphasizes connectivity and interaction. The school’s transportation accessibility supports equitable attendance and ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can access its educational offerings without undue travel burden.