<p>Since NYU doesn’t meet full need, all their financial aid that takes the form of grants or scholarships is based on merit. In other words, they will give you loans and workstudy, but anything above that is awarded at their discretion based on how much they really want you. These awards–the ones that don’t have to be re-paid–may be called by different names and come from different budgets, but they are given because NYU wants you to attend. I don’t think there is one magic number, but rather it is based on how desirable you are vs. others that are also admitted. A candidate’s desirability may be based on scores, race, region of country, community service, talent etc.</p>
<p>The above is only for candidates with financial need. If your EFC is above the cost of attending NYU you are not considered for the same scholarships as those with need. The MLK is the only school-wide scholarship that I know of that is given to students without need. Steinhardt and Tisch give some merit aid for talent. Steinhardt, Gallatin and CAS may give some $ if you get into their scholars program (but that keeps changing and is still unclear on their websites.)</p>