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Columbia University New York: Rankings, Fees, Programs, Admissions 2026
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Columbia University Latest News
Aug 12, 2025: Columbia to accept Supplementary Dialogues for Admission
Columbia will now take into account "readiness to engage in civil discourse" of some UG applicants for the 2025-26 session.
Columbia and five other colleges have partnered with Schoolhouse.world, a peer tutoring platform, that allows students to engage in dialogue sessions with other students, for about 45 minutes on key social topics such as: Israel and Palestine, Immigration and Artificial Intelligence, etc.
Students will then rate each other on key skills like passion, empathy and respect. A complete portfolio of the same can then be used as part of Columbia admission applications. Note that this requirement is optional.
Aug 11, 2025: Columbia University Cyber Attack
Columbia University were on the receiving end of a cyberattack, that saw personal information, such as student health data, Social Security Numbers (SSN) and other sensitive information of almost 870,000 students, compromised.
This data was made public by the university, as part of the recent agreement between Columbia University and Donald Trump Administration. The university is said to be taking the appropriate actions.
Jul 24, 2025: Columbia agrees deal to pay more than $200m with Donald Trump to restore Federal Funding
Columbia has agreed to pay the US Government, $200m in compensation, over accusations, that the university failed to protect its Jewish students, from harassment by pro-palestinian students on campus, as they demonstrated their support for Gaza, in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This comes after Trump decided to freeze federal funding to Columbia worth $400m, back in March.
How does it affects Indian students at Columbia?
The US Government will release some of the federal grants it had paused back in March, allowing the university to invest the same to support its operations related to financial aids, faculty and research activity, departments, institutes and centers.
About Columbia University
Based in the city of New York, Columbia University is one of the eight Ivy League Universities present in the United States. The institute, founded in 1754, is known for offering a combination of quality STEM courses, world-class research facilities, and exposure to one of the best academic environments in the US.
Having educated more than 100 Nobel Laureates over its nearly 250-year history, the institute is recognized by many as one of the best universities in the world.
According to Shiksha, Columbia University Ranking is #10 in the US and #17 in the world. However, securing admission to Columbia is easier said than done.
The Columbia University acceptance rate stood at 4.94% for the Class of 2029, according to the latest student enrollment data made public by the university.
When it comes to academics, students have access to more than 100 degree programs across 80 areas of study, with Computer Science, Business Administration, Finance, Civil Engineering, and Political Science making up the popular Columbia University majors.
Students looking to study for cheap at Columbia have to seek financial aid and scholarships, as the average annual Columbia University Fees range between INR 51.5 L-INR 59.2 L for UG courses, while costing in the range of INR 20.3 L-INR 1.23 Cr for PG courses.
Despite its high tuition costs, studies at Columbia are very well and truly worth it, with graduates securing average packages worth USD 150,000 (INR 1.50 Cr) per year, not to forget the hefty sign-on bonuses.
Things to know about Columbia University
Mentioned below are some interesting facts about Columbia University USA:
|
Fact |
Validation |
|---|---|
|
Columbia University Location |
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, United States |
|
Accreditation |
|
|
Columbia University QS Ranking |
#38 |
|
Student to Faculty Ratio |
6:1 |
|
Columbia University Average GPA |
3.7-4.0 |
|
Columbia University Average SAT |
1520-1560 (Class of 2028) |
|
Columbia University Average ACT |
34-36 (Class of 2028) |
|
Total Students |
35,769 (Fall 2024) |
|
Total International Students |
1,241 (Fall 2024) |
|
Columbia University Campuses |
|
|
Columbia University Placement Rate |
89% (MBA Class of 2024) |
|
Top Employers |
Amazon, American Express, JP Morgan Chase and Co., Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, and Barclays |
|
Notable Alumni |
BR Ambedkar, Barack Obama, Warren Buffett, and Franklin Roosevelt |
Columbia University History
Established in 1754, on the orders of Great Britain’s King George II, Columbia Uni holds the honour of being the oldest in New York and the fifth oldest institute of higher education in the USA.
Over its lifespan, the institute has seen itself expand to different parts of New York, countless changes in presidency, with Samuel Johnson being the first to preside over its operations, and millions of dollars spent on research.
A schoolhouse near the Trinity Church in Manhattan is where the university’s first-ever class took place. Today, Columbia stands as one of the finest private universities in America, housing 16 schools, a Columbia College, and four other affiliate schools under its institutional umbrella.
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All your Columbia University Housing queries have been answered here: How to Navigate Housing at Columbia University
Check out the videos below to know more about studying in USA:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
The minimum GPA required for getting into Columbia Uni is 3.7-4.0. The University prioritizes students who stand out both in academics and other non-academic activities such as community events, social and cultural events, among others.
International students are advised to perform consistently well across different levels of their education to have the best chances of admission.
Former Minister of Law and Justice of India, BR Ambedkar, attended the Columbia University, receiving a PhD in Economics in 1927, and an Honorary degree in 1952.
Ambedkar, was the first politically prominent, and highly educated member of the Hindu "untouchable" Dalit cast in India, who fought for their civil rights and social justice.
Columbia University is known to offer a quality standard of education & the best-in-class resources to its domestic & international student body. It offers a range of UG & PG courses across several prominent streams including: Computer Science, Finanace, Psychology, Economics, Business Management & more.
Its Master of Science (MS) programme & Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme are amomg the most prominent courses being pursued by its international student body.
Columbia University Ranking
Columbia University New York City forms part of the best universities in USA, and globally. The institute, part of the Ivy League, ranks highly as part of the latest Shiksha Popularity Rankings. The Columbia University ranking is #10 in the United States, and the Columbia University World Ranking is #17 globally.
Moreover, popular publications, such as QS World, also rank the University of Columbia highly. Columbia University QS Ranking is #38 in the world. The university's QS rank has seen a decline from the previous year, when it ranked #34.
How good is Columbia University?
The table below highlights how some top publications rank Columbia University in the City of New York as part of their latest rankings:
| Publication | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Columbia University US News ranking - 2025 | #10 |
| Shiksha Popularity Ranking (US) | #10 |
| Shiksha Popularity Ranking (Global) | #17 |
| Columbia University THE ranking - 2025 | #18 |
| Columbia University QS Ranking | #38 |
Is Columbia good for Engineering?
New York Columbia University is globally renowned for its engineering programs, imparted by the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science. Here is how Shiksha ranks Columbia University Engineering in USA:
| Columbia University Engineering | Rank in USA |
|---|---|
| Biomedical Engineering | #14 |
| Computer Science Engineering | #17 |
| Chemical Engineering | #24 |
| Electrical Engineering | #24 |
| Mechanical Engineering | #26 |
| Civil Engineering | #26 |
What is Columbia University ranked in the US?
Shiksha has ranked Columbia University courses on a national level to highlight the quality of education offered to international students in the USA. The table below lists how the institute performs for some of its popular courses at the national level:
| Course | Shiksha Popularity Ranking |
|---|---|
| MArch | #4 |
| MBA/PGDM | #6 |
| MSN | #6 |
| LLM | #6 |
| MA | #6 |
| MIM | #7 |
| Others PG | #7 |
| MFA | #8 |
| MS | #11 |
| BE/BTech | #25 |
#17
#10
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Yes, Columbia University accepts 125 transfer students each year from two and four year institutions. To secure admission to Columbia University as a transfer student, students must satisfy the eligibility criteria mentioned below:
- Must have earned 24 points of credit at another institution or be registered to complete 24 credits at Columbia by the time of enrollment
- Must possess a high school Diploma or equivalent
- Must be enrolled at an institute where courses are offered by each term (quarters, semesters, etc.) AND a grade is given for each course, every term AND the institute can provide an English language transcript of the same
- Must secure the minimum score, in either of the following: TOEFL-iBT: 105, IELTS: 7.5, Duolingo English Test: 135, or Cambridge English: 191
Columbia University ranks #10 among all colleges & universities in the United States, as per the latest global university rankings rolled out by Shiksha.
The institute is also a part of the prestigious group of Ivy League Schools that are known for being the best higher educational institutes in the United States.
Further, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranks Columbia #38 as part of its variation of the World University Rankings 2026, again cementing its status as one of the best universities in the world.
Columbia is considered among the world's most important research centers. It is among a select group of R1 institutions in the US. R1 institutions are known for their very high research activity.
The university's scientists have been credited with about 175 new inventions in health Science each year & over 30 pharmaceutical products based on research conducted by Columbia researchers have reached the market.
Some notable works in the market include: Xalatan, Remixade, Reopro, Benefix, Latanoprost & Zolinza.
Columbia University Degrees
International students at Columbia University have access to more than 100 degree programs, across more than 80 areas of study, when it comes to Columbia University Undergraduate courses. There are 132 options to choose from when it comes to Columbia University graduate programs. The Columbia University Degrees can be pursued across several popular streams, including Computer Science, Business Administration, Management, Finance, Economics, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Political Science, Biology, Neuroscience, and History, among others. Additionally, the Columbia School of Professional Studies offers 18 part-time master's courses, and some of them can be pursued online.
Columbia University Undergraduate Programs
While there are more than 80+ options to choose from when it comes to Columbia University UG courses, some are more popular among international students than others, and are mentioned below:
- Columbia University Computer Science
- BA in Data Science
- BBA
- BA in Drama & Theatre Arts
- BA in Political Science
Columbia University Postgraduate Courses
There is a bigger pool of options to choose from (more than 200 courses) when it comes to Columbia University graduate programs. Some popular postgraduate majors of Columbia University USA, are mentioned below:
- MS in Computer Science
- MA in Business & Economics
- Columbia University MBA
- MA in Arts & Culture Concentration
- MS in Data Science
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
International students can choose from more than 100 degree programs on the bachelor's as well as master's levels at Columbia University. According to the historical data of Columbia University alumni, some of the Columbia University Popular Degrees are: Economics, Computer Science, Political Science, Psychology and Finance. Here's a detailed breakdown of the same:
| Columbia University Major | Number of Graduates Who Pursued |
|---|---|
| Economics | 30,883 |
| Computer Science | 18,750 |
| Political Science | 16,636 |
| Psychology | 16,171 |
| Finance | 15,385 |
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.
Yes, international students can change their major, even after enrollment at Columbia University, however, changing majors is only applicable to limited courses across departments. For example, students enrolled at Columbia SIPA, looking to change their major, must reapply, and ensure they meet the eligibility criteria of the new program they are applying for.
For more information, students can contact their respective department.
How to get into Columbia University from India?
Students can apply for Columbia University Admissions by the Columbia University application deadlines for international students, mentioned below:
| Application Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| UG Early Decision Deadline | Nov 1, 2025 |
| UG Regular Decision Deadline | Jan 1, 2026 |
| PG Priority Deadline | Jan 15, 2026 |
| PG Regular Deadline | Feb 15, 2026 |
Columbia University Admission Requirements
The Columbia University admission requirements for international students are mentioned below:
Columbia University Undergraduate Admissions
- Official academic transcripts (in English)
- Good academic scores in Class X or Class XII (ideally above 90%) from CBSE or some other state board
- Minimum 2 Letters of Recommendation signed by teachers
- A School Profile
- SAT or ACT scores (Optional)
- Columbia University application fee worth USD 85 or INR 7.4 K
Columbia University Graduate Admissions
- Official academic transcripts
- UG degree from an accredited college or university in India
- Good scores in CBSE Class X & XII and at the college level
- A professional resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Columbia University application fee worth USD 120 or INR 10.5 K
Columbia University English Requirements
The Columbia University English Language Requirements are as follows:
|
Exam |
Minimum Score (UG) |
Minimum Score (PG) |
|---|---|---|
|
105 |
100 |
|
|
7.5 |
7.5 |
|
|
135 |
- |
|
| CAE |
191 |
- |
Note: For postgraduate programs, the minimum English language requirements vary as per the choice of course.
Columbia University Admission Process
- Gather all essential personal ID & academic documents
- UG students must register on the Common App
- PG students must register on the Columbia University application portal
- Select Columbia from the list of universities
- Upload official transcripts, LORs, SOPs, and other essential documents
- Pay the specified application fee
- Review and submit the application
Conversion: 1 USD = INR 87.62
- Application fees :USD 79.6 - 250
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Needed for few courses |
| LOR | Needed for few courses |
| Essays | Needed for few courses |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Based in Ithaca, New York, the Cornell University is the easiest Ivy Legaue to get into. The Cornell University acceptance rate stands at 8.41%, which is the highest among all the other Ivy League Universities, almost twice than that of Harvard and Columbia.
Cornell, ranks just outside the top 10 universities in USA, with the Cornell University ranking stood at #12 in USA and #15 in the world, per the latest Shiksha Popularity Ranking.
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. Applicants must have a good portfolio and perform well in academics to get into the university.
Columbia UniversityColumbia University Scholarships for Indian Students
International students at Columbia University USA can avail 100% scholarships, that cover the entire cost of studies and cost of living in New York. The university aims to make quality education affordable to all, and reward those who have demonstrated exceptional academic abilities in past and current academics at the university.
Columbia University Scholarships at a Glance
| Columbia University Financial Aid | Validation |
|---|---|
| Total Worth of Scholarships | USD 228 million |
| Awarded in International Financial Aid | USD 19 million |
| Average First Year Grants and Scholarships | USD 76,265 (INR 66.8 L) |
Columbia University Scholarships
International applicants can choose to apply to one of the Columbia University scholarships, listed below:
Columbia University Scholarship Requirements
- CSS Profile
- Latest Income Tax form, filed by parents or the student themselves, with the following information: Gross income, Other income, Mandatory or Involuntary Deductions, Taxes paid, and any other important financial info
- A Business or Farm Supplement form (for applicants who own a business or farm)
- Outside Scholarship and External Payment Form, to be submitted via the College Board IDOC system
How to apply for financial aid at Columbia University?
- Register on the Columbia University Student Financial Services Portal
- Submit the CSS profile or any other additional financial documents requested by the university
- Provide past academic transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and a financial need assessment
- Submit any additional documents, as asked by the university, including: tax returns, income proof, personal statements, etc.
- Submit the Columbia University scholarship application on time
- Keep track of application status
To know more about scholarships in the US, check out the video below:
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Columbia University offers a number of scholarships to international students. Each scholarship has its own criteria and conditions. Columbia University provides scholarships to students from all socio-economic backgrounds including international students. Columbia is committed to meeting 100% of the demonstrated need of all admitted first-year international students. It has a substantial amount of financial aid for international students totalling over USD 17 million for the class of 2027.
Columbia University does not discriminate between domestic and international students. At the university, scholarship application process is the same for all students, regardless of their citizenship or country of residence. International students are advised to check the application instruction for more information on the procedure and requirements for scholarships.
Yes, Columbia University is known to offer athletic scholarships for a number of sports including American Football.
The scholarships are given on the basis of need & overall performance of a student & are available for NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NAIA & NJCAA.
As per data curated from unofficial sources, 34% athletes at the university are awarded scholarships.
18 monthsColumbia UniversityStudents Ratings & Reviews
2 Verified Reviews- 67% students never faced discrimination in this university
(1) 1 person found this helpfulColumbia University Placement
The Columbia University placement rate for MBA graduates stood at 89% for the Class of 2024 MBA graduates after the first 3 months of graduation. Around 86.4% of the Columbia MBA grads accepted the job offers they received. The median Columbia MBA graduate salary figure stood at USD 175,000 (INR 1.50 Cr), while the average signing bonus offered by recruiters stood at an average of USD 30,000 (INR 25.8 L) per year, based on information curated from official sources.
Columbia University Average Package
The table below gives a detailed breakdown of the Columbia University average salary after graduation, for MBA graduates as part of the Columbia University placement:
| Compensation Type | Receiving | Median | Highest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | 100% | USD 175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr) | USD 370,000 (INR 3.18 Cr) |
| Signing Bonus | 71.3% | USD 30,000 (INR 25.8 L) | USD 151,000 (INR 1.29 Cr) |
| Other Guaranteed Compensation | 12.3% | USD 21,185 (INR 18.23 L) | USD 225,000 (INR 1.93 Cr) |
Columbia University Top Salaries By Industry
Columbia graduates are known for possessing in-depth knowledge of their respective areas of study & as a result, are paid well for their contributions to their respective industries.
Given below is a detailed industry wise breakdown of the Columbia University average salary:
| Industry | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Consulting | USD 188,000 (INR 1.6 Cr) |
| Investment Banking | USD 175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr) |
| Private Equity | USD 165,000 (INR 1.41 Cr) |
| Hardware/Software/Telecom | USD 163,000 (INR 1.4 Cr) |
| Investment Management | USD 160,000 (INR 1.37 Cr) |
| Internet Services/E-Commerce | USD 157,050 (INR 1.35 Cr) |
|
Consumer Finance & Analytics |
USD 150,000 (INR 1.29 Cr) |
Conversion rate: 1 USD = INR 86.06
Columbia University Placement Report
To know more about Columbia University MBA placements, get the detailed Columbia MBA employment report from here for FREE: Columbia University MBA Employment Report
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Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Columbia MBA graduates are paid very well for their contributions, with the average salary figure for Class of 2024 MBA graduates standing at USD 175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr), per data curated from official sources.
12.3% of the MBA graduates were also on the receiving end of additional guaranteed compensation worth USD 225,000 (INR 1.93 Cr).
Conversion rate: 1 USD = INR 86.06
The Columbia University the highest base package is around USD 370,000 (INR 3.18 Cr.) earned by a MBA grad employed in Consulting.
Another graduate, employed in Private Equity, secured a packagae worth USD 350,000 (INR 3.01 Cr).
Students get a median salary of around USD 188,000 (INR 1.61 Cr) in the Consulting industry.
Below are the top 5 majors at Columbia University:
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Executive MBA
- Civil
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Engineering
Columbia University Cost in INR
The Columbia University fees for international students range between INR 51.4 L-INR 59.05 L for Columbia University undergraduate programs, and INR 20.2 L-INR 1.23 Cr for Columbia University postgraduate courses.
Columbia University USA Fees
The Columbia University fees vary depending on the course & specialisation. The table below lists the per-semester tuition cost for some popular Columbia University masters programs:
| Course | Per Semester Fees (in USD) | Per Semester Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| MA in Biotechnology | USD 42,002 | INR 36.22 L |
| MA in QMSS | USD 42,776 | INR 36.9 L |
| MA in Mathematics of Finance & Statistics | USD 47,194 | INR 40.7 L |
| MA in Economics | USD 45,366 | INR 39.1 L |
| Most Other Master's Programs | USD 36,278 | INR 31.3 L |
Columbia University MBA Fees
The Columbia University MBA fees for international students are USD 91,172 (INR 78.6 L) for a 9-month academic year. Moreover, students also have to take into account certain other expenses associated with the cost of living, including: mandatory academic fees, books & supplies, health insurance, personal expenses & transportation, among others.
Columbia University Cost of Attendance
The Columbia University cost for international students, in New York, is around USD 22,247 (INR 19.2 L), which includes student fees, housing, food, books, transportation & personal expenses, and some other costs.
Given below is a detailed breakdown of the Columbia University cost of attendance for international students:
| Cost of Living Component | Cost (in USD) | Cost (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 71,170 | INR 61.4 L |
| New Student Fees | USD 675 | INR 58.2 K |
| Housing & Food | USD 17,580 | INR 15.15 L |
| Books, Personal Expenses & Transportation | USD 3,992 | INR 3.45 L |
| Total Estimated Cost | USD 93,147 (INR 79.9 L) | INR 80.34 L |
Conversion rate: 1 USD = 86.24
Source: Columbia University in the City of New York
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(74 courses) | INR 29 L - 94 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 9 months-24 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 99 - 114, PTE: 68 & Above, Duolingo: 130 - 134, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 - 7.5, GMAT |
MBA/PGDM(19 courses) | INR 47 L - 83 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 9 months-2 years Exam Accepted: PTE: 68 & Above, TOEFL: 99 - 114, IELTS: 6.5 - 7.5, Duolingo: 130 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
M.A.(137 courses) | INR 21 L - 68 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 9 months-24 years Exam Accepted: PTE, TOEFL: 100 - 114, Duolingo: 130 & Above, GRE, IELTS: 7 - 8, GMAT |
BBA(7 courses) | INR 61 L - 62 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, PTE, Duolingo: 135 & Above, TOEFL: 105 & Above |
B.Arch(2 courses) | INR 61 L - 62 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, PTE, Duolingo: 135 & Above, TOEFL: 105 & Above |
B.E. / B.Tech(14 courses) | INR 53 L - 62 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, PTE, Duolingo: 135 & Above, TOEFL: 100 - 105 |
Others PG(28 courses) | INR 29 L - 1 CrGet Fee Details | Duration: 9 months-2 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 100 - 114, PTE, Duolingo, GRE, IELTS: 7.5 - 8, GMAT |
B.Sc.(20 courses) | INR 60 L - 62 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, PTE, Duolingo: 135 & Above, TOEFL: 105 & Above |
B.A.(55 courses) | INR 60 L - 62 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: PTE, Duolingo: 135 & Above, IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 - 105 |
LL.M.(2 courses) | INR 76 L - 77 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 6 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 8 & Above, TOEFL: 105 & Above, PTE |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Yes, students can pay their fees in monthly installments, instead of in one go, at Columbia University. The university has created a number of monthly payment plans, which students can join by paying a modest enrollment fee, but one that allows them to pay their tuition fees over several months, without any interest charges. These plans include: Fall Term Only, Spring Term Only and on an Annual basis.
The enrollment fee for Fall and Spring terms is USD 30 (INR 2.6 K) per term, and the annual payment plan costs USD 50 (INR 4.3 K).
For more information, visit the Student Financial Services Portal of Columbia University.
The Columbia University MS in CS fees, for international students is around USD 64,800 or INR 56.75 L for the first year. The cost is the same for all graduate engineering programs with 12 points per semester, and tends to typically increase by 2-7% from second year onwards.
The overall Columbia University cost of attendance for international students, enrolled in graduate engineering courses, with 12 points or more per semester, is USD 103,304 or INR 90.5 L.
Source: Student Financial Services - Columbia University
The Columbia University IELTS requirement, varies for both undergraduate and graduate students. The Columbia University IELTS requirement Graduate students is 100 or more, while the Columbia University IELTS Requirement Undergraduate students is 105 or more.
International students can also submit alternative language test scores such as TOEFL, Duolingo and CAE.
How many students attend Columbia University?
The Columbia University Class of 2029 saw around 2,946 students secure admission to the Columbia College & The Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, according to the Class of 2029 Student Profile Data released by the university.
Is it hard to get into Columbia University?
The university received a total of 59,616 applications, out of which 2,946 applicants were admitted, with the Columbia University acceptance rate standing at 4.94% for the Class of 2029.
Given below is a detailed breakdown of the Columbia University enrollment numbers of the last 3 years:
|
Particular |
Class of 2026 |
Class of 2027 |
Class of 2028 |
Class of 2029 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Applications Received |
60,377 |
57,129 |
60,248 |
59,616 |
|
Applications Accepted |
2,253 |
2,246 |
2,327 |
2,946 |
|
Acceptance Rate |
3.73% |
3.9% |
3.85% |
4.94% |
How many Indian students in Columbia University?
| Race & Ethnicity | Class of 2028 | Class of 2029 |
|---|---|---|
| White | 49% | 47% |
| Asian American or Pacific Islander | 39% | 39% |
| Hispanic or Latin | 19% | 19% |
| Black/African American | 12% | 13% |
| Native/Indigenous | 3% | 3% |
| Not Reported | 2% | 4% |
| Detailed Reports | Columbia University Class of 2028 Student Profile | Columbia University Class of 2029 Student Profile |
Others
58%
Asian
18%
Hispanic
15%
Black
7%
Out of state
63%
In state
19%
Foreign
16%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
Columbia University Notable Alumni
Columbia University is one of the most reputable universities in the world due to its excellence in teaching, heritage as well and celebrated alumni. These graduates include figures from all walks of life and include several notable Indians. Listed below are the Columbia University notable alumni:
|
Columbia Alumni |
Profession |
|
|---|---|---|
|
B.R. Ambedkar |
Former Minister of Law and Justice of India
|
 |
|
Barack Obama |
First African- American President of the USA |
 |
|
Founding Father of the United States |
 |
|
|
American Singer (Winner of 15 Grammys) |
 |
|
|
Sara Ali Khan |
Indian Bollywood Actor |
 |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Yes, the Columbia University faculty consists of a number of Nobel Prize winners, placing it among the most esteemed faculty networks in the world.
Martin Chalfie, Professor of the Biological Science Department at Columbia is a recipient of a Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Further Elena Aprile, a professor at the institute's Physics Department is a recipient of “Laurea” in Physics from the University of Naples, Italy.
Columbia University Vs Harvard University Vs Stanford University: Which is better?
Columbia University, Harvard University & Stanford University form part of some of the best higher educational institutions, not just in the United States, but worldwide. As part of the latest Shiksha Popularity Rankings, each of these universities forms part of the top 10 in the United States.
Which has higher chances of admission?
In terms of acceptance rates, New York Columbia University offers better chances of admission. While the Harvard University acceptance rate and Stanford University acceptance rate are both less than 4%, that is not the case with Columbia University.
Which gives a better ROI: Columbia, Harvard, or Stanford?
The cost of an MBA at Columbia University for 2 years is INR 1.57 Cr, while the Harvard University MBA fees range between INR 18 L-INR 67 L, and the Stanford University MBA fees range between INR 35 L-INR 1 Cr.
So, it can be said that Harvard offers a better ROI, as the cost of an MBA at Harvard is much lower there, while the average annual salary is on par with Columbia and Stanford.
Given below is a comparison between Columbia, Harvard & Stanford:
|
Criteria |
Columbia University |
Harvard University |
Stanford University |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Location |
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, United States |
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States |
450 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA 94305, United States |
|
Acceptance Rate |
4.94% |
3.6% |
3.9% |
|
Popular Programs |
Economics, Computer Science, Finance |
Psychology, Engineering, MBA |
Computer Science, Economics, MBA |
|
Average Tuition Fees (UG) |
INR 51.5 L-INR 59.2 L |
INR 50.6 L-INR 52.8 L |
INR 58.1 L |
|
Average Tuition Fees (PG) |
INR 20.3 L-INR 1.23 Cr |
INR 17.05 L-INR 69.3 L |
INR 25.5 L-INR 1.23 Cr |
|
Average Salary |
USD 175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr) |
USD 175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr) |
USD 187,504 (INR 1.62 Cr) |
|
Shiksha Popularity Ranking |
#10 in the USA |
#2 in the USA |
#3 in the USA |
|
Shiksha Popularity Ranking (Global) |
#17 |
#2 |
#4 |
Compare Columbia University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 29.2 L - 93.67 L | #15 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 38.42 L - 75.33 L | #4 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 46.02 L - 55.37 L | #1 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 18.46 L - 63.23 L | #12 US News, 2026 | |
| INR 28.16 L - 84.34 L | #55 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 9.37 L - 82.59 L | #20 US News, 2026 |
CompareColumbia UniversityStudying in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Columbia University Campus Life
Located in New York City, the Columbia University campus is spread over 32 acres of land, and houses more than 40,000 students, 100 research centers, 16 main libraries, 3 affiliate libraries, 16 schools, one Columbia College, and four affiliate schools, as part of the New York Columbia University.
Athletics
The Athletics Program at Columbia University New York City, is the largest in the NCAA Division I & New York City. The institute has been home to 46 Olympians. Some popular varsity sports available to students include: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf & Swimming as part of the American College system’s most prestigious competitions: Ivy League & NCAA Championships.
Research
The university is part of an exclusive group of R1 universities, which are renowned for their high research activity.
Interestingly, Columbia also happens to be the first North American site where the uranium atom was split. The university’s researchers are credited with 175 new inventions every year & have more than 30 pharmaceutical products in the market that have been developed based on their research.
Dining
The campus offers several dining halls, food trucks & cafés spread across the campus, serving some of the most delicious food for students throughout the day.
Food is available in a number of delicacies such as Indian, American, Chinese & Thai, among others. That’s not it; monthly dining competitions are also a regular feature, with students competing with each other for coveted prizes.
Housing
For Housing, students can visit the university’s official housing portal that offers a vast array of room formats, including shared apartments, studio rooms, private apartments, as well as designated accommodation facilities for respective schools as part of the Morningside Heights campus.
Wanna know what life is like as a student in New York City? What to Pack? Best Neighborhoods? Affordable places for Daily Essentials in NYC? The Answer to all your problems is given below:
Studying at Columbia University: What It's Like to Live in New York City?
Commonly asked questions On Additional Details 1
Columbia University offers guaranteed on campus housing to all undergraduate students, for all four years of their studies (except those in the 2nd year combined plan and visiting students), provided they remain continuosly registered as a full-time student. However, Master's students are not guaranteed on campus housing, and are allotted rooms based on an in-house lottery system.
Doctoral students in the Arts and Science can take up guaranteed housing, for five consecutive academic years.
Yes, the Columbia University campus is generally considered safe for all students, including Indians. The university operates a number of safety services that includes:
- Columbia University EMS, a dedicated ambulance service, always on duty, that provides medical assistance at no extra cost.
- Safety Escort Program: A Walking Escort program, that can be taken up at any time of the day and seven days a week around the university campus
- On-Demand Evening Shuttle: Operates seven days a week, every evening until 3 am around the Morningside and Manhattanville campus.
Top 5 Tips to get into Columbia University
Indian students looking to pursue higher studies at the University of Columbia must keep the following things in mind before submitting their Columbia University application:
Maintain a Strong Academic Background
Students must rank among the top 5-10% students of their respective class, in school and college, as the University of Columbia prioritizes students with a solid academic background.
Securing a minimum 90% aggregate in Class X and Class XII and an equivalent GPA of 3.7-4.0 in college should prove enough to have a genuine chance of admission at Columbia University.
Demonstrate Passion and Engagement
Applicants interested in admissions to Columbia Uni must also possess a genuine passion towards their chosen field of study and a willingness to actively serve the wider community.
Active participation in non-academic events such as community service, social, and cultural events leaves a positive impression in the minds of the decision makers and greatly boosts the overall chances of admission at Columbia University.
Be a Leader
Students who have shown the ability to lead and take initiative during school or college are valued highly by Columbia University in New York. Therefore, it is advisable to highlight any leadership roles you may have held in the past as part of the Columbia University application.
Make your Application Count
Write a unique and compelling application, essay, and personal statement that highlight your personality and experiences. Try and keep your application as genuine as possible, refrain from using AI, and use your original thoughts, as that is the best way to stand out from the rest.
Understand Columbia and its Values
Conduct thorough research of what Columbia seeks in an applicant, have an idea about Columbia University and its history and experiences of past students, as that can help you understand what it means to be at Columbia, and would also help improve the quality of your application.
How good is Columbia University for Research?
The University of Columbia boasts several impressive, cutting-edge technologies across its various institutes and global centers that are handled expertly by award-winning faculty and experienced members across industries.
The table below gives a glimpse into the world-class research facilities at New York Columbia University:
|
Facility |
Department |
Area of Research |
Facility |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory |
Science |
|
 |
| Center on Global Energy Policy |
Science |
|
 |
|
Columbia University Data Science Institute |
Engineering |
|
 |
| Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University |
Neuroscience |
|
 |
Source of Images: Columbia University, Wikipedia, and Mitchell Giurgola
Columbia University FAQs
While applying for Columbia University admissions, all international students are required to pay the Columbia University application fee. For Indian students, the payable amount is USD 85 (INR 7 K). International students must note that this fee non-refundable fee and the university will not refund it under any circumstances. However, applicants may qualify for a fee waiver at the time of application.
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.31
Founded as a King's College for males, Columbia University was established by a royal charter issued by Great Britain’s King George II in 1754. Due to the American Revolution the university had to go through am eight-year long hiatus period. Once resumed, in 1784 the institution was renamed Columbia College as a form of patriotic reference to explorer Christopher Columbus. Columbia University acquired its now known name 112 years post this incident.
Columbia is considered among the world's most important research centers. It is among a select group of R1 institutions in the US. R1 institutions are known for their very high research activity.
The university's scientists have been credited with about 175 new inventions in health Science each year & over 30 pharmaceutical products based on research conducted by Columbia researchers have reached the market.
Some notable works in the market include: Xalatan, Remixade, Reopro, Benefix, Latanoprost & Zolinza.
Morningside Heights is considered among the safest neighbourhoods in New York City.
All Columbia owned buildings in the area are operated & managed by university employees & the institute takes extra measures to provide a safe & supportive residential environment for all members of the community.
Columbia's Department of Public Safety oversees all security & safety procedures, while the Morningside Area Alliance also provides security patrols.
Evening & Night shuttles are available during evenings & nights throughout the neighbourhood to Columbia students over the academic year.
Columbia University
Student Forum
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Columbia UniversityLocation
| University City | New York, New York, USA |
| Size of city | Large |
| Population of City | 86,22,697 |
Columbia UniversityCampuses
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027
Visit official siteColumbia UniversityContact Information
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, United States
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