About
Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university in New York City. Established in 1754 as King's College, it is the fifth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States and one of the nine colonial colleges chartered before the American Revolution. Columbia University has an enrollment of 30,000+ students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1.
Columbia is composed of four undergraduate schools: Columbia College, the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School of General Studies, and the Juilliard School (which is administered separately from the rest of the university). It also has 13 graduate and professional schools, including the Columbia Law School, the Columbia Business School, and the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.
What is the acceptance rate of Columbia University?
Columbia University is a highly selective university, with an acceptance rate of 4%. The student body is diverse, with students from all over the United States and the world. Columbia is also a research powerhouse, with a faculty of Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows.
What is the Annual Tuition fee at Columbia University?
The annual tuition fee at Columbia University is around 55 lakhs INR.
What is the Columbia University Minimum GPA Requirement?
Columbia University doesn't have a minimum GPA requirement for admission, but admitted students have a GPA of between 3.9 and 4.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Columbia University offers a vibrant and stimulating campus life that is sure to appeal to students of all interests. Whether you are interested in academics, the arts, sports, or simply exploring New York City, you will find something to love at Columbia. Columbia University has been highly ranked by major university rankings.
Top Reasons to Study in the Columbia University
There are several reasons why students should opt for Columbia University. Enlisted below are some in brief:
- Columbia University is located in New York City, one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world.
- Columbia University's rigorous academic program is designed to challenge and prepare students for success in their chosen fields.
- Columbia University's diverse student and faculty body comes from all over the world, creating an enriching environment for everyone.
- Its world-renowned faculty, who are experts in their fields.
- Its extensive research facilities, allow students to conduct cutting-edge research.
- Its strong alumni network provides students with support and opportunities after graduation.
These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will get to learn and explore at Columbia University. To know more, click here.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
4%
Application Fee
$65 - $250
How to Apply at Columbia University
Columbia University offers various programs through its 13 professional schools and four undergraduate schools. Here are the steps on how to apply to Columbia University as an international applicant:
- Make sure you meet the admission requirements: These requirements vary depending on the program you are applying to, but they usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, standardised test scores, and letters of recommendation. You can find more information about the admission requirements on Columbia University's website.
Check admission deadlines: Missing admission deadlines can severely affect your chances of getting into Columbia, hence it is recommended to start the application process as early as possible.
- The closing date for early decision applications is November 1.
- The QuestBridge National College Match submission deadline is November 1st.
- Early decision financial aid applications must be submitted by November 15.
- Online announcement of early decision applicants' decisions in mid-December.
- The standard decision application deadline is January 1.
- Early January is the deadline for early decision applicants to submit deposits.
- The deadline for normal decision financial aid applications is February 15.
- Decisions on applications for routine decisions are published in late March.
- For a normal decision, the deposit deadline is May 1.
- Requests for enrollment deferrals must be submitted by May 15.
- The final transcript submission deadline is in late June.
Submit your application materials: The application materials for international students include the following:
- Application form.
- Official transcripts from all high schools attended.
- Standardized test scores.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Personal statement.
- Writing sample.
- Resume.
- Financial aid application (if applicable.)
- Pay the application fee of $85 - $150 (INR 7,047 - 12,437).
- Attend an interview: Columbia University may require you to attend an interview as part of the application process, usually conducted by alumni or faculty members.
- Wait for a decision.
Documents Required to Apply to Columbia University
To get admitted to Columbia University, international students must fulfil the prerequisites and submit any further documents. The following collection of documents can help you get accepted into programs at Columbia University:
- Proof of high school educational credentials
- ACT/SAT scores
- GRE/GMAT scores
- Results of English proficiency tests like the TOEFL/IELTS
- Letter of recommendation
- Statement of purpose.
- CV
- USA student visa
- Passport copies
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of funds
Exams Accepted By Columbia University
Not just your high school grades but Columbia University will also look at the multitude of standardized tests that you will have to attempt to secure a spot in a course at Columbia. Enlisted below are the score requirements for various tests:
| Test | Score |
| Weighted GPA | 4.1-4.5 |
| ACT | 33-35 |
| SAT | 1490-1580 |
| GRE | 310 |
| GMAT | 717 |
| TOEFL | 105 |
| IELTS | 7.5 |
| DET (Duolingo English Test) | 135 |
With regards to extracurriculars, focus on quality and not quantity. Be selective with what activities you do.
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
New York City has a very extensive public transportation system:
-
Subway
The subway is the most popular way to get around NYC. It has 24 lines and 472 stations, covering all five boroughs. The subway runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
-
Bus
The bus system is another great way to get around NYC. There are over 200 bus routes, covering all five boroughs. Buses run from 5 am to 2 am, with some routes running later.
-
Ferry
The ferry system is a great way to get around the city's waterways. There are 13 ferry routes, connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. The Staten Island Ferry is free to ride.
- Commuter Rail
The commuter rail system connects NYC to the surrounding suburbs. There are 12 commuter rail lines, with service to over 100 stations.
- Taxi
Taxi are a convenient way to get around NYC, but they can be expensive. The base fare is $4.50, and the meter increases by $0.50 per mile.
- Uber and Lyft
Ride-hailing services are a more affordable alternative to taxis. The fares are usually lower than taxis, and there are often discounts available.
-
Walking
Walking is a great way to get around NYC, especially in the more central areas. It's a healthy and affordable way to explore the city.
- Biking
Biking is another great way to get around NYC. There are over 1,200 miles of bike lanes in the city.
Services offered by the university
Columbia University offers a wide range of services to its students, faculty, and staff. Some of the most important services include:
-
Academic advising
Students are assigned academic advisors who can help them choose courses, plan their academic path, and navigate the university bureaucracy.
- Career services
Columbia's career services office offers resources to help students find jobs and internships, including resume and cover letter writing workshops, mock interviews, and job search assistance.
- Financial aid
Columbia offers financial assistance to students who need it, based on financial need and academic merit.
- Health services
Columbia's health services provide comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health care to students, faculty, and staff.
- Transportation
Columbia offers a variety of transportation options, including buses, shuttles, and bicycles.
All these are some basic services provided by Columbia University. But there are also some special services offered for international, disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.
Student life at Columbia University
Life at Columbia University is inclusive, with several opportunities to get involved for all students. Let us look at the factors that contribute to the vibrancy of student life at Columbia University:
-
Academics
Columbia University is a top-ranked research university, and its students have access to world-class professors and facilities. Students can choose from over 50 undergraduate majors and 60 graduate programs.
-
Dining
Columbia University has various dining options, including two dining halls, a kosher dining hall, and several cafes and restaurants.
-
Extracurricular activities
There are over 500 student clubs and organizations at Columbia University, covering everything from academics to athletics to arts and culture.
-
Athletics
Columbia University is a member of the Ivy League, and its teams compete in 33 varsity sports.
-
City life
Columbia University is located in the heart of New York City, so students have access to all that the city offers, from Broadway shows to world-class museums.
These are just a few factors that make Columbia University’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.
On campus accomodation at Columbia University
Columbia University offers various on-campus accommodations for undergraduate and graduate students.
Undergraduate Housing
- First-Year Housing: First-year students are guaranteed housing in one of the residence halls in the First-Year Area. These residence halls are located within walking distance of academic buildings, dining halls, and other campus facilities.
- Upper-Class Housing: Upper-class students have housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and suites. Some of the residence halls for upper-class students include Carman Hall, Hartley Hall, and John Jay Hall.
- Special Interest Housing: Columbia also offers various special interest housing options for students with specific interests, such as the arts, athletics, or sustainability.
Graduate Housing
- Guaranteed Housing: Doctoral students in the Arts and Sciences are eligible for five consecutive academic years of guaranteed student housing. Master's students are not guaranteed housing, but they may apply for it on a space-available basis.
- Unguaranteed Housing: Unguaranteed housing is available to all students, regardless of their year in school. This housing is usually more expensive than guaranteed housing, but it offers more flexibility in terms of location and room type.
Housing Costs: The cost of a single room in a residence hall for a first-year student is approximately $13,000 ( INR 10,77,888) per year. The cost of an apartment for a graduate student is approximately $20,000 (INR 16,58,290) per year.
Faculty
University Faculty Stats
Some statistics about Columbia University's faculty:
- There are a total of 3,790 faculty members, including 2,670 full-time and 1,120 part-time faculty.
- The average faculty member has 17 years of experience.
- 46% of the faculty are women and 30% are faculty of color.
- 60% of the faculty have a Ph.D. degree.
Career Opportunities
University Endowments Value
Internship opportunities at Columbia University
Columbia University offers various internship and part-time job opportunities for students.
-
Internships
Columbia University has several internship programs in business, law, medicine, engineering, the arts, and humanities. These programs can be unpaid or paid, and they usually last for a summer or semester.
-
Part-time jobs
Columbia University also offers several part-time jobs for students, such as work-study positions, student assistants, and research assistants. These jobs can be found in some departments and offices across the university.
Working can be crucial, especially if you are an international student. With the array of opportunities offered by Columbia University, you will surely find an internship or part-time job on campus, or in the surrounding community.
Placement of Columbia University
Placement: According to Columbia University's Career Education Center, 95% of undergraduate students and 92% of graduate students receive job offers within three months of graduation.
Hiring Companies: Some of the top employers of Columbia University graduates include:
- Amazon
- Apple
- Bain & Company
- BlackRock
- Goldman Sachs
- McKinsey & Company
- Morgan Stanley
- The New York Times
- The Boston Consulting Group
- The World Bank
Salaries: The average salary for a Columbia University graduate is $100,000. However, salaries vary depending on the industry, the company, and the individual's qualifications.
Photo Gallery
Popular Courses · 99
BA in Architecture
62,434
tuition / yr
BA in Biology
67,828
tuition / yr
BA in Neuroscience & Behavior
60,420
tuition / yr
Bachelors in Anthropology
71,171
tuition / yr
Bachelors in Astronomy
71,171
tuition / yr
Bachelors in Chemistry
71,171
tuition / yr
Bachelors in Economics
71,171
tuition / yr
Bachelors in English
62,434
tuition / yr
Last updated August 14, 2026