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Manhattan School of Music

New York, New York · Private (nonprofit)

Apr 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

C+Value
N/ACampus
AAcademics
BAdmissions
A-Student Life
B+Overall

About

Manhattan School of Music is located in New York, New York. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 535 students.

msmnyc.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$54,600
Out-of-state tuition$54,600
Room & board$17,350
Avg aid package$21,335
Students receiving aid13%
Pell grant recipients13%

Manhattan School of Music's tuition is approximately $54,600 annually, though 87% of students receive financial aid. The school offers various scholarships, balancing merit and need to make education accessible. While the cost of living in New York City is high, the school's commitment to financial assistance helps students manage expenses.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate40%
Average GPA3.55
Student–faculty ratio6:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$125

Application dates

Regular DecisionFeb 1

Manhattan School of Music has a fairly competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of 41%. The school looks for talented students with a strong passion for music. MSM considers both merit and financial need, conducting a holistic review to make education accessible.

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Academics

Graduation rate79%
Retention rate93%
Student–faculty ratio6:1
Full-time faculty22%

The Manhattan School of Music offers a competitive environment with a welcoming community and dedicated professors. The school emphasizes collaboration and encourages students to experiment across genres. With over 700 performances annually, students have ample opportunities to showcase their talents.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$26,878
Avg starting salary$40,700
Job placement rate77%
Loan default (3 yr)5%
Loan repayment (3 yr)66%

MSM boasts a high employment rate, with 96% of graduates finding jobs within a year of graduation. Alumni have achieved success in major orchestras, Broadway, and various musical fields. The school's location in New York City provides students with invaluable networking opportunities and access to top professionals in the music industry.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
535Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 49%Male 51%
38% WhiteRacial diversity
White 38%Hispanic 10%Asian 7%Black 5%Other 40%
Campus housingYes

Campus life

Lets make an english horn reed with MSM oboist, Megan Strait! @megan.oboe Manhattan School of Music applications are o

@msm.nyc

All are welcome here at #msm! We can’t wait for you to be #msmbound 🩷 #nyc #music #musicschool #nicknames #manhattansc

@msm.nyc

MSM Graduate Opera Theatre presents ROMÉO ET JULIETTE, November 21-24 Enjoy this rehearsal clip of “Je veux vivre” sung

@msm.nyc

+6 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

MSM fosters a tight-knit community despite its small size, encouraging collaboration and camaraderie among students and faculty. While some note limited diversity and campus-wide social activities, the school offers a supportive environment. Students appreciate the convenience of on-campus housing and the vibrant cultural scene of New York City.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Make sure to find a private teacher that is good for you - not jut one that you've heard good things about. Shop around. Also, visit the school so there are no surprises. Keep in constant contact with the office of admission and financial aid as well, it will help you if they know you.

Current Student

Prepare to become organized! Organization is a form of discipline you'll need to adopt. Procrastination doesn't fly in a conservatory like MSM, where you're expected to do all of your homework, study, write essays, compose counterpoint, memorize pieces, and practice for your lessons on top of that! Don't fall victim to falling behind - make a planner or calendar and get yourself a watch!

Campus and vibes

Student

Studying at Manhattan School of Music has been a positive experience for me. The school has a welcoming community, with initiatives to promote well-being on campus, and dedicated professors and instrumental faculty. The workload for school, rehearsals, and practice can be heavy at times, but it is achievable as long as time is managed well. There are several opportunities for educational and career building resources available to students through the school, as well as community outreach opportunities in New York.

Student

Since the pandemic, MSM has experienced a very noticeable decline—both financially and musically. The school has shifted toward accepting a higher volume of students, often prioritizing tuition revenue over genuine talent. A very significant pre-college faculty strike also occurred this year due to underpayment issues, reflecting broader administrative problems.

About Manhattan School of Music

Manhattan School of Music is located in New York City and faces similar safety concerns as other urban institutions. The school contracts security services through Allied Universal and collaborates with the Morningside Area Alliance for mobile patrols. Security staff monitor campus buildings, and students are encouraged to report any safety concerns.

While specific details on an honors program are not readily available, MSM offers various advanced programs such as the Pinchas Zukerman Performance Program for exceptionally gifted violinists and violists. The school also provides professional studies certificates and artist diplomas for advanced performance.

Manhattan School of Music attracts students from over 50 countries, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment. The school provides support for international students, though specific details on visa support and ESL programs are not detailed in the provided documents. The international student community contributes to a globally diverse campus.

Endowment$34,843,403
Avg faculty salary$99,960

Manhattan School of Music FAQ

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