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Columbia University Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 14 Nov '24, by Akansha katariya (Study Abroad Expert)

Columbia University Admissions
What’s new?

International students can take Columbia University admissions in Spring, Fall intakes or, Early or Regular modes. The Columbia University application deadline for international students is given below:

Undergraduate Deadlines:

Columbia School of General Studies:

  • Spring: closed (regular)
  • Fall: Jan 15, 2025 (Priority), Mar 1, 2025(Early), May 15, 2025 (Regular)

Columbia College/ Columbia Engineering:

  • closed (Early Decision)
  • Jan 1, 2025 (Regular decision)

Graduate Deadline:

Columbia Engineering:

MS/MBA: Jan 15, 2025 (Priority), Feb 15, 2025 (Regular)

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Columbia University Admissions 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   What are the requirements to get into Columbia University?

A: 

Students with less than twenty-four post-high school earned college credits are considered freshmen applicants. International students must complete the admission procedure and meet the requirements to get into Columbia College of Columbia University for undergraduate study:

  • Cumulative high school GPA on a 4.0 scale

  • 21 ACT or 1060 SAT score or rank in the top half of their graduating class

Q:   Is it hard to get into Columbia University?

A: 

Yes, it is hard to get into Columbia University because of its low acceptance rate. Columbia College and The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science accept only 2,246 applications out of 57,129 applications for Columbia Undergraduate admission to the Class of 2027. This indicated that Columbia University admissions are competitive for international students. This year, the Columbia admission rate was just 3.9 percent.

Q:   What is the application fees for Columbia University?

A: 

The application fee for Columbia University for Undergraduate students is USD 85 and the application fee for Columbia graduate school is USD 120. The University offers exceptional opportunities for its students to develop their skills. Remembering that the university may revise its fee depending on the intake is also essential.

Q:   How good is Columbia University?

A: 

Columbia University is surely a good option for international students mainly beacuse of a diverse range of excellent academic programs . Notable programs include the film, television and digital media school which has produced countless successful alumni in the entertainment industry.

Here are the reasons why you should go for Columbia University: 

Academics:  The Columbia University Fees for international students are comprised of various components, with some common elements applied to all international students. These components include tuition fees, insurance, transportation, accommodation charges, books and supplies, personal expenses, and miscellaneous fees. When converted to Indian rupees, these fees provide an overall view of the financial aspects of studying at Columbia University for international students. 

Placements:  Columbia University is offered by the Columbia Business School. As per the 2022 Employment Report, 95% students received job offers 3 months after graduation. The median base salary stood at $175,000 ranging from $52,700 to $400,000. According to the report, from Technology to Finance, Real Estate to Social Enterprise and Sustainability, the students made an impact across industries and sectors.

Location of the university - The Columbia University is in a location where arts & culture, technology industry and entertainment industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. The location gives Columbia University students an additional mark to study at Columbia.  

Ranking: If we consider Columbia University world ranking, then as per QS World University Rankings 2024, the university is placed in the 23rd position. If we compare the university’s ranking with 2023, then its position has declined. In 2023, it was placed in the 22nd position

Fees: : The cost of attending Columbia for Indian students can vary depending on several factors. Tuition fees for international students at Columbia are typically higher than for US citizens. However, it is important that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending Columbia. 

Columbia University MS Admissions 2024

56 courses 9 months - 3 years
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27.7L - 1Cr

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: TOEFL, GRE, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT

Columbia University Application Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process

Q:   How can Indians apply to Columbia University?

A: 

Below is the application process for Columbia University for international students:

The following are the three ways an applicant can apply through: 

  • The Coalition Application 

  • The Common Application 

  • The QuestBridge Application 

. Step 1: The Application Process can be made through the Common Application or the above 

Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly, and see if your current qualifications are recognised. 

Step 3: You should meet the entry requirements checklist before applying: 

  • ACT and SAT scores 

  • Transcripts of your high school

  • Must meet the English requirements 

  • Two letters of recommendations

  • SOP

  • USD 85 application fee 

Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.

Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.

Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 85, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)

Step 7: you can check out their official portal/applicant might get an official mail if they are selected ( However, to check your application status, it is suggested to check out their portal.) 

Postgraduate Application Process: 

Step 1: Identify your course. The application can be made through the official Columbia University portal.

Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly and see if your current qualifications are recognised.

Step 3: Applicants must meet the entry requirements checklist below before applying to the university: 

  • Transcripts of your high school

  • Must meet the English requirements 

  • Three letters of recommendations

  • SOP

  • Resume/CV

  • Some programs might have additional requirements, depending on the course. 

Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.

Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.

Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 120, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)

Step 7: you can check out their official portal/applicant might get an official mail if they are selected ( However, to check your application status, it is suggested to check out their portal) 

Q:   Can you get into Columbia Business School without work experience?

A: 

While work experience is prefferrd, it is not mandatory for admission to Columbia University. The application process includes submitting essays, LOR's, Resume and GRE or GMAT scores. Despite that preference of work experience can also add a factory to your overall portfolio. Hence we suggest you to have a 5 year experience before applying for Columbia University. However, it's not compulsory. 

Q:   Is Columbia Data Science Masters worth it?

A: 

Yes, it is worth studying MS in Data Science at Columbia University because of better placement opportunities. Columbia Data Science Masters allows students to apply data Science techniques to their field of interest. Master of Science in Data Science is one of the most highly-rated and sought-after advanced data Science programs in the world. Columbia is a perfect choice to study MS in Data Science in the USA for international students. Columbia University graduates are placed in the top companies listed below:

  • Alibaba

  • Amazon

  • Citibank

  • IBM

  • Microsoft

Students can also check the list of Top 10 Master of Data Science Colleges in USA

Q:   How competitive is admission to Columbia University?

A: 

Columbia University is highly competitive mainly because it is one of the Ivy league institutions. Students must demonstrate outstanding achievements and a strong commitment to academic excellence to stand out in the highly competitive applicant pool. Thus, aspiring applicants should be prepared to present a compelling application for Columbia University admissions

Columbia University Enrollment Statistics 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission

Q:   What advice would you give to someone who is interested in applying at Columbia University?

A: 

The First and formost advice individuals need to understand is that they need 100%  hard work in applying to the university. As, Columbia University is one of the toughted universities to get into in the world. Hence by following all the requirements and by showing good soft skills, this can help the applicant to get into the university. 

Secondly, crafting a comprehensive startegy is very important and will surely lead to the students sucess. Lastly, with a thorough preparation and clear mind of action, applicants can increase their chances of getting into columbia Univetrsity. 

Q:   What are some tips to get into Columbia University for undergrad?

A: 

 Some of the tips for students starting their first-semester at the Columbia University are:

  • Students who applied for Columbia University must be humble and should interact with as many people as possible. Mainly beacause, the more people you talk to the better knowledge you get. 
  • Attend as many gathering and parties as much as you can. 
  • Applicants should avoid missing classess, as 70% of learning comes from students going to classes. 
  • Students can get invovlved with extracuricular activities, i.e joing university clubs, sports etc. This will also look good on a portfolio in the longer run. 

Q:   What does Columbia University look for in students?

A: 

 Columbia University seeks diverse students who demonstrate excellent academic grades and well-rounded individuals involved with extracurricular activities showcasing unique talent and experiences in their portfolio. Although Columbia University acceptance rate is competitive, applicants are evaluated for overall performance and not just particulate in one segment. Remember to give your best and emphasise your skills and talents that come in handy to Columbia University. 

Columbia University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.6/5
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Vibe of Campus
  • Multi-dimensional
  • Friendly
  • Academically oriented
Student Views
  • 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships4
Part time work5
Post study jobs5
Quality of faculty5
Student Life5
Value for money4
Public transportation5
Safety5
Indian Food4
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MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
4.6
Columbia University: Fostering Brilliance and Innovation
Tips: Networking is the key. Make as many connections as possible. New York is an amazing place to be and make the most of it. There is a Shardarshish scholarship which waves 50% tuition fees and also numerous graduate research assistant roles available if interested.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The diversity of faculty is amazing with most of them graduating from the top universities. Their knowledge on the subject is remarkable and they challenge you to be better and work harder. They let you engage in projects and conduct many office hours for discussions
Dislikes (Internships): The coursework and the brand value added because of Columbia University is great which lands you in a good internship but there are comparatively fewer career fairs than other universities. The career advisors are super helpful in guiding and suggesting changes to resumes and cover letters.
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Columbia University Admission FAQs

Q:   How much does an MBA cost in Columbia?

A: 

 It is important for international students to manage their Columbia MBA costs and other expenses before applying. Students can check below the student’s budget for 2022-2023 at Columbia for MBA program:

Item

Cost

Tuition

$80,472

Mandatory Fees

$4,103

Health Services & Insurance

$5,497

Books & Supplies

$320

Room & Board

$24,822

Personal Expenses

$6,246

Computer Purchase

$1,000

Total First Year Budget

$122,460

Q:   What are the requirements for a Columbia MBA application?

A: 

Columbia Business Schools requires that the work contained in the applicant’s application is accurate. Offers of admission will be rescinded should any misrepresentation and/or omission occur. Students can check below the requirements for the Columbia MBA application:

  • Academic Transcripts

  • GPA

  • GMAT, Executive Assessment, or GRE Score

  • Resume

  • Essays

  • Recommendation

  • Application Submitted/Received

  • Interview

  • Application Fee

  • Re-applicant Checklist

  • Deposits

Q:   Can I get into Columbia with a 3.5 GPA?

A: 

Applicants with a GPA of 3.5 may still be considered for admission to Columbia University. While GPA between 3.9 and 4.0 is ideal, having a slightly lower GPA doesn’t necessarily disqualify any applicant. However, it's essential to compensate with outstanding achievements in other areas of your application, such as extracurricular activities, LORs, SOP and many more. Hence the university doesn’t just see scores but also sees an overall performance of the applicant.

Q:   What is the Columbia University ranking in the world?

A: 

Major ranking providers like QS and Times Higher Education rank Columbia University among the top universities in the world while US News has ranked it among the top 15 Universities in the World for 2023. Given below are Columbia University world ranking as mentioned in the prominent rankings:

Ranking Source

World Ranking 2024

QS - World University Ranking

#23

THE (Times Higher Education) - University Ranking

#17

US News & World Report - Global Universities

#12

Students can also check the list of the World's Top 100 Universities 2023-2024

Q:   Is Columbia MBA hard to get into?

A: 

Yes, it is hard to get admission into the Columbia MBA programme because of the high competition. The Columbia University acceptance rate for the MBA programme is around 22%. For the class of 2022, the Columbia Business School receive 6177 applications out of which 1363 are admitted to the Columbia MBA program. International students require a good GPA and academic profile to get into the university Students can know more about MBA in the USA and then apply.

Q:   Does Columbia MBA require GMAT?

A: 

International applicants looking to study MBA at Columbia must submit their GMAT, Executive Assessment, or GRE score when applying. Columbia Business School considers scores to be valid for five years after your test date. Students can check below the GMAT score and other test scores required for MBA admission 2024:

Exam

Score

GMAT Scores (average)

729

GMAT Scores (range)

550 – 780

GMAT Scores (middle 80%)

700 – 760

Undergraduate GPA (average)

3.6

Undergraduate GPA (middle 80%)

3.1 – 3.9

Q:   Does Columbia University require an English proficiency test?

A: 

International students must be comfortable with rapid and idiomatic spoken English to be considered for Columbia University admission. Students can demonstrate that they are proficient in English by submitting the English proficiency test scores.

  • Your home language is English.

  • Your primary language of instruction at school has been English for the duration of your secondary school career.

  • You earned one or more of the following subsection scores:

  1. 700 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section of the SAT

  2. 29 or higher on the English or Reading sections of the ACT

Note: If candidates meet, one or more of the above criteria, then fulfilled Columbia’s English language proficiency requirement. If they do not, then they need to take one of the following English Language Proficiency exams:

Want to have a good score in IELTS? then check out : Free IELTS classes  

English proficiency test

Scores

TOEFL

A minimum score of 105

IELTS

A minimum score of 7.5

DET

A minimum score of 135

Also check, the IELTS Indicator

Q:   Which country is best for MS in data science?

A: 

Studying Data Science is one of the popular professions among international students. Studying MS Abroad is a dream for many students. So many countries have the best universities to study MS in Data Science. Check below the list of countries to study the program:

  • USA

  • Canada

  • UK

  • Australia

  • Ireland

Also check, the Top 10 Affordable Countries to Study Data Science

Q:   What advice would you give to someone who is interested in applying at Columbia University?

A: 

The First and formost advice individuals need to understand is that they need 100%  hard work in applying to the university. As, Columbia University is one of the toughted universities to get into in the world. Hence by following all the requirements and by showing good soft skills, this can help the applicant to get into the university. 

Secondly, crafting a comprehensive startegy is very important and will surely lead to the students sucess. Lastly, with a thorough preparation and clear mind of action, applicants can increase their chances of getting into columbia Univetrsity. 

Q:   Which is better: NYU or Columbia University?

A: 

New York University and Columbia University are one of the best universitues in the world. The universitys are the bets in the city of New York. However, while they share a great reputation, there are subtle differences between the two universities. The below table compares the rankings, fees and acceptance rate of NYU and Columbia. Overall this information could be useful for students who are considering them.

Here is the comparison highlighting the differences between the Universities:

 Name of The University

Ranking

Acceptance Rate

1st Year Tuition Fee

New York University

#39

 10%- 11%

  UG course: INR 17 L - 50 L

  PG course: INR 68 L - 90 L

Columbia University

#23 

 3.9%

UG Course:  INR 50 L - 52 L

PG course:  INR 44 L - 76 L

(The comparison of fees was between the BTech course for UG and the MBA course for PG)

Q:   How many schools are at Columbia University?

A: 

 21 schools at Columbia University offers various comprising undergraduate and postgraduate options to students. Check below the list of Columbia schools:

Columbia University Schools

Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, & Preservation

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences  

School of the Arts

Barnard College

Columbia Business School

Columbia Climate School

Columbia College

Columbia Journalism School

Columbia Law School

College of Dental Medicine

Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science

School of General Studies

School of International and Public Affairs

Jewish Theological Seminary

School of Nursing

Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

Teachers College

School of Social Work

Union Theological Seminary

School of Professional Studies

Mailman School of Public Health

Q:   What are the best reasons to attend Columbia University?

A: 

Columbia University is one of the most prestigious universities around the globe and students worldwide desire to pursue their higher studies here. Mentioned below are the best reasons to attend the University of Columbia:

Academics: Columbia University programs for international students are offered through three undergraduate schools, thirteen graduate and professional schools consist of more than 100 degree programs on the undergraduate and postgraduate level as well. Columbia provides courses in leading fields such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Sciences and several more. Student-to-faculty ratio at Columbia is 6:1, which gives visibility to students and helps connect one-on-one with world-class experienced faculties.

Location of the university: Columbia is where Arts & Culture, Technology Industry & Entertainment Industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. Its location gives the students an additional mark to study.

Ranking: Columbia University has obtained an overall ranking of A++ in Shiksha rankings. Additionally, some of the Columbia courses such as Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Business Economics rank in the A category. Other programs such as Business Analytics, Chemical Engineering, and Civil Engineering have secured the grade B++. Whereas, Entrepreneurship ranks in the C+ category.

Fees: For Indian students, the cost of attending Columbia can vary depending on several factors. Also, the annual tuition fees for international students at Columbia University are typically higher than for US citizens. However, it is important to note that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending Columbia University. Scholarships and financial aid options are also available to help students from financial barriers.

Q:   Does Columbia have an entrance exam?

A: 

Columbia University is test-optional for applicants to Columbia College or Columbia Engineering. Standardized testing is not a required component of the Columbia application. International students may choose to submit testing or choose not to submit test scores. Below are the testing policies for students who do choose to submit testing:

  • Take either the ACT or the SAT

  • Columbia does not consider the optional writing section

  • Students can take standardized tests as late as November for Early Decision and January for Regular Decision

  • International applicants and non-native speakers of English should refer to our English proficiency requirements:

  1. TOEFL - A minimum score of 105

  2. IELTS - A minimum score of 7.5

  3. DET - A minimum score of 135

Q:   Is Columbia University good for MBA?

A: 

Yes, it is a good choice for international students to study Columbia University MBA in the USA because of its high ranking in the world. Columbia ranks among the top 10 MBA universities in the world since 2021. According to QS MBA Ranking 2023, the university ranks 8th in the world and 5th in the USA for business studies.

Columbia Business School

Statistics

Students enrolled

2,472

International Student %

39.4%

Alumni

49,308

Graduate Employed

95% (within first three months)

Countries Represented

123

Q:   When should I apply to Columbia MBA?

A: 

Columbia Business School uses a rolling admission process, so it is always advantageous for students to apply as early as possible. Students may apply in either August or January. Each year, many international students apply to the Columbia University MBA program. Mentioned below are the Columbia MBA application deadlines:

Round

Application Deadline

Interview Decisions Released

Round 1

Closed

Mid-Oct, 2024

Round 2

Jan 5, 2025

Early-to-mid Feb, 2025

Round 3

April 3, 2024

Mid-to-late Apr, 2024

Q:   How to get into Columbia University for Masters in data science?

A: 

Check below the requirements to get into Columbia University for Master in data science:

  1. Eligibility Requirements

  • Undergraduate degree

  • Prior quantitative coursework (calculus, linear algebra, etc.)

  • Prior introductory computer programming coursework

  1. Application Requirements

  • Online application

  • Personal Statement

  • Academic transcripts from every post-secondary institution attended

  • Three recommendation letters

  • Curriculum vitae / resume

  • GRE General Test Scores are optional for the 2023 applications (optional)

  • $85 non-refundable application fee

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic test scores, if applicable

Q:   What is unique about Columbia MBA?

A: 

Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most popular courses offered by Columbia Uni and students across the globe desire to pursue this course. Mentioned below are some interesting facts of the Columbia University MBA course:

  • MBA course stands in the top 10 business schools across the world.
  • Median salary of an MBA graduate of Columbia University is USD 175,000 per year.
  • Columbia Business School (CBS) is about 12 km from New York City which paves the way for students to have one of the best job opportunities in the world. New York City is known as "door to success"
  • Columbia University MBA is in seventh position in Forbes’ list of Best US Business Schools and sixth in US News’ Best Business School (US) list.
  • Its core structure consists of two full-term courses and eight half-term courses, forming the foundational experience for its students. This core curriculum is designed to help students with a deep understanding of essential academic disciplines and practical skills for success in the competitive business world. 

Q:   What GPA do I need to get into Columbia MBA?

A: 

Columbia Business School does not have a minimum GPA requirement for admission to its MBA program. But according to unofficial sources the average GPA of admitted applicants at Columbia MBA is 3.6. Moreover, 80% of the class have a GPA between 3.1 and 3.9.

Q:   What does Columbia University look for in students?

A: 

 Columbia University seeks diverse students who demonstrate excellent academic grades and well-rounded individuals involved with extracurricular activities showcasing unique talent and experiences in their portfolio. Although Columbia University acceptance rate is competitive, applicants are evaluated for overall performance and not just particulate in one segment. Remember to give your best and emphasise your skills and talents that come in handy to Columbia University. 

Q:   How difficult is to get into Columbia University Engineering?

A: 

Admission to Columbia University Engineering course is exceptionally challening, mainly beacuse of it's rigorous standards and also beacuse it's one of the top Ivy league. The Columbia University's acceptance rate is just 3.9%. That means only 3.9 out of 100 people are selected. However, students aiming to study at Columbia University for Engineering course should not be demotivated by the acceptance rate. As all they need to do is follow the requirements thoroughly and give a strong portfolio that would pursuade the faculty or team of Columbia University. 

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Akansha katariya

Study Abroad Expert

Akansha katariya is a content creator at shiksha.com, creating content for study abroad. Having pursued B tech. in Electronics and communication from RGPV University, she has been creating content across diverse domains. When not guiding students, sh...Read Full Bio

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Columbia University
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