i stayed at this place called Marcel Hotel. Nice...small, like only bed and bathroom, but by far cheapest, nicest place in Manhatten. and it's on the same street as NYU, literally 5 minute walk. I think the room ran 150/night. Nothing fancy, but it's a good, clean place to stay a night.
I stayed at New Jersey for NY interview. I stayed at Ramada hotel, u can type ramadahotel.com...it was $114 for a night, but u have to take a train and then a
bus to go to NYU; it takes almost 30 minutes to go to NY place where u have interview...Or u can take place near by Manhattan and take a train to Best Buy Store, which is nearby 23th west...then in front of best buy, bus goes from 23th west and goes to Ist Avenue east. NY interview building is on the crossing of 1st avenue and 24th street.. I know only this place...good luck for ur interview..
tc n have fun..