Columbia University
Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university in New York City, founded in 1754 as Kings College by royal charter of King George II of England. It is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States. Columbia is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, renowned for its rigorous academics, groundbreaking research, and its location in the heart of Manhattan.nnThe university enrolls approximately 36,000 students across its three campuses in Morningside Heights, Washington Heights, and Manhattanville. Columbia comprises 20 schools, including Columbia College, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the School of General Studies for undergraduates, along with world-leading graduate and professional schools.
Schools and Colleges
- Columbia College — Liberal arts undergraduate education with the famous Core Curriculum
- Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) — Engineering, computer science, applied math and sciences
- School of General Studies — Undergraduate education for non-traditional students
- Columbia Business School — World-renowned MBA and finance programs
- Columbia Law School — One of the top law schools in the nation
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons — Medical education and biomedical research
- Mailman School of Public Health — Leading public health research and programs
- School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) — International relations, policy and development
- Graduate School of Journalism — Home of the Pulitzer Prizes
- School of Social Work — One of the oldest and most prestigious social work programs
How to Apply
Columbia accepts applications through the Common Application or Coalition Application with a Columbia-specific supplement.
- Application Fee: $85 (waivers available)
- Transcripts: Official high school transcripts required
- Test Scores: Test-optional policy; middle 50% SAT 1510–1570, ACT 34–36
- Recommendations: Two teacher recommendations + school counselor report
- Essays: Common App essay + Columbia supplement essays
- English Proficiency: TOEFL 100+ or IELTS 7.0+ for non-native speakers
Key Deadlines
- Early Decision: November 1
- Regular Decision: January 1
Admission Requirements
- Acceptance Rate: ~3.9% (one of the most selective in the US)
- Average GPA: 4.14 weighted
- Class Rank: Top 1-5% of high school class strongly preferred