How to Apply
We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. We encourage students to submit their application by our early submission dates (see chart in the Getting Started tab below) in order to guarantee the most timely admissions decision and the broadest consideration for scholarships and financial aid.
Admissions Information
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Admissions Criteria
*Please click on the Getting Started tab above to see which application you should use (it depends on your start term).
Our office takes a holistic approach to the application process. We look forward to reading about how your experiences have shaped who you are and why now might be the right time to start your graduate school education.
If you are interested in applying, we will be looking for a number of criteria, including:
- A GPA of 3.0 (B average) or higher in a completed undergraduate degree program from a regionally accredited college or university
- An aptitude for completing graduate-level coursework and academic projects of substantial scope and breadth, as well as a capacity for making positive contributions in your professional life
- Sensitivity to others, flexibility, self-awareness, and a willingness and capacity to engage in self-reflection
- Positive interpersonal skills in relationships with both children and adults
- A healthy motivation and commitment to learning, children, and young adults
If You’re Seeking Your First Certification
If this is your first time seeking certification, you will need to meet breadth and depth distribution in the liberal arts and sciences, including depth of at least ten courses in one liberal arts and science major or area of concentration. If you are missing a course prerequisite, you will need to complete any undergraduate or graduate-level course in the subject(s) required within your first year at Bank Street. The Office of Graduate Admissions will send you information on which prerequisites you have yet to fulfill.
If Your Program Requires Initial Certification for Admission
A few of our professional certification, special education, and literacy programs require that you already hold New York State initial certification. If you are finishing an undergraduate education program in New York State, we will be looking at your TEACH record at the time of admission to track your progress toward certification.
If you hold a certification from a state other than New York, you will need to apply for reciprocity and have your certification issued before starting your program. If your certification is not yet issued by the time you apply, we may admit you into one of our dual certification programs in general and special education until you can procure your initial certification.
Title IV | What is the New Title IV Regulation and Why is it Important?
This new federal regulation, 34 CFR 668.14(b)(32), which is in effect starting this month, requires all online educational programs leading to licensure, including all teacher and leader certification programs, only enroll students who plan to work in the state where their program leads to certification or in a state where there is reciprocity. Compliance with these regulations is essential for all educational institutions to continue to receive Federal financial assistance and to operate educational programs.
Admissions Guide Chart
In addition to the admissions criteria listed on this page, there may be additional materials or requirements needed depending on the program you’re choosing to apply for. View our Admissions Guide Chart for more information.
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Getting Started
Please carefully read below to see which application you should choose.- Use the Certificate Application for the following:
- Bilingual Extension Certificate
- Childhood Special Education Advanced Certificate
- Early Childhood Special Education Advanced Certificate
- School District Leader
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Advanced Certificate,
- Early Childhood Leadership Advanced Certificate
- Use the Graduate Application if:
- You are applying to a full master’s degree program (not listed above) for the first time, reapplying to a program, or seeking your second degree from us.
Which Application Should I Complete?
Term Semester Start Early Submission Date Application Type Financial Aid (FAFSA) Spring 2025 Tuesday, January 21, 2025 By November 1, 2024 2024-25 Graduate or Certification Application 2024-25 FAFSA Summer 2025 Summer 1 and Summer Long: Monday, May 12, 2025
Summer 2: Monday, June 20, 2025By February 1, 2025 2024-25 Graduate or Certification Application 2024-25 FAFSA Fall 2025 Beginning of September By February 1, 2025 2025-26 Graduate or Certification Application 2025-26 FAFSA Application Requirements
For most programs, complete applications require:
- Non-refundable application fee ($65)
- Two letters of recommendation*
- A reflective autobiography* (a minimum of 750 words)
- Résumé
- Official transcripts for all institutions attended (degree earned or not):
- Sent electronically directly from your prior institution(s) to gradadmissions@bankstreet.edu (most efficient for timely processing)
- Via postal mail (longer processing time)
- Note: Unofficial transcripts can be uploaded to your file in order to conduct a cursory review and provisional admission decision, but official transcripts will be needed in order to be formally admitted
- Certification documentation, if required for your desired program
Some programs require additional application materials. Any specific requirements will be listed on the “Admissions” tab of the program’s page.
*Requirements may differ for applicants to non-degree certification sequence programs, readmission candidates, and those applying for a second degree. Leadership candidates, working teachers, and Child Life applicants will need at least 1 (one) reference letter from a specific type of reference (outlined in the application).
- Use the Certificate Application for the following:
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After You Apply
InterviewsIf the Admissions Committee wishes to proceed with your application, a faculty member from the appropriate program will contact you to schedule an interview. On occasion, we may be able to accommodate interviews by phone or video chat for applicants who live a distance from the College.
Admissions Decisions
Admissions decisions are made throughout the year. Generally, you will be notified about your admissions status within 10 days of completing your application.
If you meet the priority submission date, the Admissions Committee will reach an admissions decision prior to registration for the next academic term.
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Financing Your Education
Applying for Financial AidApplicants are encouraged to apply for financial aid before being accepted into a program. If you’re seeking financial aid, you must submit a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for Bank Street awards/scholarships, grants, and loans. Visit our Financial Aid page for more information.
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Admissions Guide Chart
Admissions Guide Chart
In addition to the admissions criteria listed on this page, there may be additional materials or requirements needed depending on the program you’re choosing to apply for. View our Admissions Guide Chart for more information.