The Mordecai and Monique Katz Associate Degree Programs

Your Foundation for What Comes Next

The AA in Liberal Arts and AS in Management offer students a unique opportunity to begin their academic journey at Yeshiva University with a strong foundation in both Jewish and secular studies. Rooted in YU’s commitment to academic excellence and values-based education, these programs provide a rich on-campus experience and a clear path forward. Student's who successful complete the program are eligible for a seamless transition into a bachelor's degree program, upon successfully meeting program requirements.

Why Choose an Associate Degree at YU?

A Dual Curriculum combining rigorous academic coursework with Jewish studies

Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship

Personalized advising to help you meet your academic and career goals

Access to YU’s campus life, clubs, events, and career services

A seamless pathway to a bachelor’s degree for qualified students

Upon graduation, students who earn a 3.0 GPA or higher may transfer directly into one of YU’s bachelor’s programs.

Application Checklist

To apply for the Mordecai and Monique Katz Associate Degree Programs, you’ll need to:

Completed Application

Begin by creating your online application account. Once submitted, you will upload supplemental materials based on your application type in the portal.

$65 Non-refundable Application Fee

Payment is processed securely in your applicant portal.

Essay Prompts

For Spring 2027 admissions and beyond, applicants should select 1 of the following essay prompts:

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Personal Statement

How do you see Yeshiva University supporting your academic goals while helping you grow personally and within your values? (250 words or less)

Official High School Transcript

Must be sent directly from your high school to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Resume or Extracurricular Activity List

Highlight your involvement in school, internships, work experience, and community activities.

Optional: SAT or ACT Scores

YU requires standardized test scores ONLY for applicants to our Honors program. All other students are invited to submit their scores, however, they are not required. If you choose to submit them, scores must be sent directly from the testing service.

SAT Code: 2990
ACT Code: 2992

We do not require the writing section for either test.

Interview with an Admissions Officer

An interview is required for all applicants. We may visit your school, or you can schedule your interview here. This is an opportunity for us to get to know you beyond the application—so we strongly encourage thoughtful conversation.

Be considered through holistic review

We get to know each applicant as a whole person. The interview gives you a chance to share your story, your goals, and how you see yourself thriving at YU.

Transfer to a
Bachelor’s Degree

Students who successfully complete the AA in Liberal Arts or AS in Management with a minimum 3.0 GPA are eligible to continue directly into Yeshiva University’s bachelor’s degree programs. Your academic advisor will help will help you plan your path forward so you can build on your academic progress with confidence.