Columbia University Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs
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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)
- Columbia University Application Process 2025
- Columbia University Enrollment Statistics 2025
- Columbia University Students review
- Columbia University Admission FAQs
Columbia University Admissions 2025
One of the top-ranked Ivy League universities, Columbia University is renowned for its research centers, distinctive and distinguished learning environment, excellence in teaching, and the large campus in New York City. Students are also compelled by Columbia University rankings and its campus. As per the Fall 2024 enrollment, over 57,000 students applied for Columbia University admission, of which over 2,000 were admitted and around 1,500 were enrolled.
The university offers a wide range of Columbia degree programs. The Columbia University courses include over 100 programs in specializations, such as Computer Science; Data Science; Sustainability Science; Applied Physiology; Business Analytics; Financial Engineering; Management Science and Engineering; and more.
The Columbia University cost range between INR 50L and INR 57L for UG, and INR 19L and INR 1.2Cr for PG. However, there are various Columbia University scholarships available for international applicants to reduce the cost to some extent.
As per the official enrollment statistics for Fall 2023, the Columbia University acceptance rate was 4%. The low percentage shows that the university is extremely stringent during admissions and follows the toughest selection criteria to select the students for its class. Factors, such as class rank, rigor of secondary school record, academic GPA, application essay, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities are prioritized during the selection process.
Also Check: Study Guide to USA for International Students
Columbia University Admissions 2025 Highlights
International students can complete their Columbia University application process via the Common App/ Coalition App for UG and the university portal for PG. Students must fulfill the basic eligibility and submit the required documents requested by the university. Once fulfilling the eligibility and submitting the necessary paperwork, students must pay the Columbia University fees to apply. Below are the Columbia University admission requirements for international students:
Particular |
Columbia University Info |
---|---|
Application portal |
UG: Common App/ Coalition App on Scoir PG: University portal |
Application fee |
UG: USD 85 PG: USD 85- USD 150 |
Acceptance rate |
4% |
English language tests accepted |
|
Standardized tests required |
|
International application deadlines |
UG: Closed (Early Decision), Jan 1, 2025 (Regular decision) PG (Columbia Engineering): Jan 15, 2025 (Priority), Feb 15, 2025 (Regular) |
Columbia University Courses and Fees 2025
Columbia University offers more than 100 degree programs on the undergraduate as well as postgraduate levels in leading fields such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Sciences, and several more. Coming to the Columbia University admission fee varies depending on the level of study and the course chosen by the applicant. Check below the list of Columbia University admission requirements, 1st-year tuition fees, and duration:
Columbia University PG Programs and Requirements
PG Programs |
Academic Qualifications |
English Proficiency Requirements |
Documents Required |
Interview |
---|---|---|---|---|
(9 months-2 years) |
|
TOEFL: 99 - 114, IELTS: 7 & Above, GRE, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT |
|
Required |
(9 months-3 years) |
|
TOEFL: 99 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 68 & Above, Duolingo: 134 & Above, GMAT |
|
Video interview required |
(9 months-5 years) |
|
TOEFL: 100 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 7 - 7.5, GMAT |
|
Not required
|
(9 months-2 years) |
|
TOEFL: 99 - 114, IELTS: 7 & Above, GRE, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT |
|
Required |
(1 year-4 years) |
|
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo |
|
Not required |
Columbia University UG Programs and Requirements
UG Programs |
Academic Qualifications |
English Proficiency Requirements |
Documents Required |
---|---|---|---|
(4 years) |
|
IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 - 105, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
|
(4-5 years) |
|
IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 - 105, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
|
(4 years) |
|
IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 105 & Above, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
|
(4 years) |
|
IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 105 & Above, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
|
( 4 years) |
|
IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 105 & Above, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
|
Also Read: Cost of living in the USA for Indian students
Columbia University Fees 2025
Columbia University tuition fees range between INR 50L and INR 57L for UG, and INR 19L and INR 1.2Cr for PG. Students can check the tuition fees for popular programs below:
Courses |
1st Year Tuition Fees |
---|---|
MS (56 courses) |
INR 28 L - 1 Cr |
MBA/PGDM (20 courses) |
INR 44 L - 78 L |
BE / BTech (14 courses) |
INR 50 L - 58 L |
MA (140 courses) |
INR 20 L - 73 L |
MIM (19 courses) |
INR 44 L - 78 L |
BA (56 courses) |
INR 57 L - 58 L |
Others PG (27 courses) |
INR 28 L - 99 L |
BSc (20 courses) |
INR 57 L - 58 L |
Also Check: Columbia University Rankings
Columbia University Application Deadlines 2025
Students from all over the globe can take admission to Columbia University in Spring, and Fall intakes or on an Early, Regular, or Priority basis. The Columbia University admission deadlines for undergraduates and graduates are given below:
School/college |
Early |
Regular |
Priority |
---|---|---|---|
Columbia School of General Studies(UG):
|
Mar 1, 2025 (Fall) |
Closed (Spring) May 15, 2025 (Fall) |
Jan 15, 2025 (Fall) |
Columbia College/ Columbia Engineering(UG):
|
Closed |
Jan 1, 2025 |
- |
Columbia Engineering (MS/MBA):
|
- |
Feb 15, 2025 |
Jan 15, 2025 |
Also Read: Admission Intakes in US Universities
Columbia University Visa Requirements for International Students
International students must receive their I-20/DS-2019 and pay the SEVIS fee, after that, they must fill out their DS-160 visa application and schedule visa interview. Students must submit the following documents before attending the interview and get the review mail from the university:
- Passport
- D-160 Confirmation Page
- Valid I-20/DS-2019
- Copy of Columbia offer letter
- SEVIS fee receipt
- Financial documents
Also Read: USA Study Visa Requirement for Indian Students
Check out the below video of Columbia University for more Information:
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: What are the requirements to get into Columbia University?
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?
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?
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?
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 MBA Admissions 2024
Columbia University provides 9-month to 2-year MBA courses for international students in specializations such as Business Analytics, Financial Engineering, Management Science & Engineering, Technology Management, Economics, Applied Analytics, Financial Economics, Enterprise Risk Management, Marketing Science, and Sports Management. The tuition fee ranges between INR 44L and INR 76 L. The basic eligibility criteria include a bachelor’s degree from an institution of acceptable standing, transcripts, GPA score, GMAT/GRE score, essay, Letter of Recommendation, and Resume.
Eligibility Criteria
- Accepting Exams: TOEFL, GRE, IELTS, PTE, GMAT, Duolingo
Columbia UniversityStudents Ratings & Reviews
- Multi-dimensional
- Friendly
- Academically oriented
- 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Columbia University Admission FAQs
Q: How much does an MBA cost in Columbia?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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:
700 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section of the SAT
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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:
TOEFL - A minimum score of 105
IELTS - A minimum score of 7.5
DET - A minimum score of 135
Q: Is Columbia University good for MBA?
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?
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?
Check below the requirements to get into Columbia University for Master in data science:
Eligibility Requirements
Undergraduate degree
Prior quantitative coursework (calculus, linear algebra, etc.)
Prior introductory computer programming coursework
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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