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Columbia University, a private Ivy League research university, is located in New York City. It is the oldest college in New York and the fifth oldest in the country, making it one of the most prominent universities in the world. Columbia was founded in 1754 on Trinity Church’s Manhattan campus under the name King’s College.
In addition to encouraging teaching and research on global topics, Columbia University aims to build academic and professional ties with several other nations and cultivate a diverse and international student body and faculty. International students want to attend Columbia for a variety of reasons.
Columbia maintains a high standard for admissions and is well-known for its demanding academic programs, active campus life, and international recognition. It can be a challenging procedure because Columbia is one of the most difficult institutions in the United States to get into.
Learn about the Columbia University admission process, how to apply, and the deadlines for the university by reading this blog!
How Hard is it to get into Columbia University?
Getting accepted at Columbia is quite tough. Almost everyone who is accepted to Columbia has a grade point average that puts them in the top tenth of their class. Successful applicants to Columbia also frequently have outstanding extracurricular activities and college application essays.
Acceptance rate at Columbia University over the years.
Class of | Total Applications | Total Accepted | Overall Rate | RD Rate | ED Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2029 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
2028 | 60,248 | 2,319 | 3.80% | 2.90% | 12% |
2027 | 57,129 | 2,246 | 3.90% | 2.70% | 14.60% |
2026 | 60,377 | 2,253 | 3.70% | 2.70% | 12.50% |
2025 | 60,551 | 2,355 | 3.90% | 2.90% | 11.90% |
How do you get into Columbia University as an international student?
International students should find solace in knowing that, despite their perceptions, the admissions procedure at abroad universities is the same for all students worldwide. The steps you must take as part of the Columbia University admissions application process are as follows:
Step 1: Research and Choose Your Program Wisely
Columbia provides over 500+ undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs across numerous disciplines. Carefully analyze the selected courses at Columbia University based on their individual criteria and expectations.
Step 2: Start Early to Apply at Columbia University
In order to get into Columbia you must start preparing in advance, at least 1-2 years in advance.
You must begin by assessing which standardised test you will be appearing for.
For UG courses, you must score high on your ACT or SAT. For PG, you may appear for GMAT or GRE, depending on the requirements of the program. Let us break it down individually,
SAT/ACT
For admission consideration, Columbia University requires SAT/ACT scores from international candidates. The minimal SAT scores are 1440–1570, and the ACT scores are 34–35, according to Columbia.
GRE/GMAT
International applicants must get a high GRE/GMAT score in order to be considered for Columbia University’s postgraduate programs, including the MBA program. A GMAT score might vary from 700 to 760.
To prove to Columbia University that you are fluent in both written and spoken English, you will need to take an English proficiency test if you are not a native English speaker, such as someone from India. The IELTS and TOEFL iBT scores recognised by universities are 7.0 and 100, respectively.
Step 3: Understand the Application Process at Columbia University
For undergraduate programs, International students usually apply using the Common Application (Common App). Make sure all of your documentation is ready:
- Transcripts of academic work
- Results of standardised tests
- Scores for English proficiency
- Reference letters
- Admission essays and personal statements
- GPA scores
Step 4: Apply before the deadline at Columbia University
Deadlines for graduate programs vary; therefore, visit the relevant department’s website. Because Columbia University has rigid application deadlines, candidates must submit their applications well in advance of the deadline.
Step 6: Financial Planning for Columbia University Education
Although attending Columbia University is costly, overseas students can apply for financial aid and scholarships. Apply for scholarships as soon as possible and look into financial sources.
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Columbia University Application Deadlines 2025
The Columbia University admissions deadlines for 2025 are included in the table below for your reference:
Fall Admission Deadlines for Columbia University
Deadline Type | Date |
|---|---|
Application Open | December 1 |
Priority Early Action Deadline | January 15 |
Early Action Deadline | March 1 |
Regular Decision Deadline | May 15 |
Spring Admission Deadlines for Columbia University
Deadline Type | Date |
|---|---|
Application Open | August 1 |
Priority Early Action Deadline | September 1 |
Early Action Deadline | October 1 |
Regular Decision Deadline | November 1 |
Columbia University Admission Requirements for International Students
Columbia University takes into account more than just your performance and exam scores. Columbia undoubtedly looks for applicants with extraordinary intellectual promise. However, they also seek out students who genuinely want to make a difference in the world and who have a strong moral code. Here are the characteristics Columbia University look for in applicants:
- Your high school coursework and grades.
- Your support networks, high school, family circumstances, and peer group.
- Your moral character, the overall calibre of extracurricular activities, and how they will help the Columbia community.
- Your recommendation letters attest to your potential and curiosity.
Columbia University Requirements for Tests
A weighted GPA of 4.1 to 4.5 is required for admission to Columbia. You must excel under challenging classes like honours and AP courses in addition to having a good GPA. The results of the several standardized tests you must take in order to be admitted to a course will be examined by Columbia University in addition to your high school transcripts.
Test | Score |
|---|---|
Weighted GPA | 4.1-4.5 |
ACT | 33-35 |
SAT | 1490-1580 |
GRE | 310 |
GMAT | 717 |
TOEFL | 105 |
IELTS | 7.5 |
DET (Duolingo English Test) | 135 |
Documents for Columbia University International Students Requirements
To be admitted, international applicants to Columbia University must fulfill the prerequisites and provide any further documentation. You may make the entire application process easier by organizing your paperwork in advance.
Applications for admission to any program at Columbia University must be submitted with the following list of documents:
- Proof of completion of high school
- SAT/ACT results
- GMAT and GRE scores
- Findings from English language competency assessments such as the TOEFL and IELTS Letters of Recommendations
- Purpose Statement
- CV for a student visa to the United States
- Copies of passports
- Photos the size of a passport
- Evidence of funds
How to Apply at Columbia University
Applications from international students will be accepted for admission to Columbia University via:
- Use the QuestBridge application, Coalition Application, or Common Application for undergraduate applications.
- Applications for graduate programs are received via the Columbia University website, wherein you have to apply through a specific school.
In order to start filling out the Columbia University admissions forms, candidates must first log on, sign up, and then log back in using their credentials. After filling out the application, candidates must:
- Undergraduate applications cost USD 85, which is non-refundable. For students who might perceive the cost to be an expense, fee exemptions are offered. There is no negative impact on your application if you request a fee waiver.
- In contrast, graduate admissions application fees range from USD 85 to USD 250, depending on the program. For precise pricing information, it is best to visit the website of the particular program.
Crafting a Strong Application for Columbia University
The following advice will help international applicants for admission to Columbia University by helping them create a compelling application:
Build a Unique Narrative for the Columbia Application
Candidates here have a great opportunity to explain why applying to Columbia is on their list of priorities. To make a good impression, applicants should write essays and personal statements that tell a gripping tale about their goals and background and why Columbia is the best fit for them.
Highlight Your Leadership and Initiatives
Columbia seeks out students who can contribute both on and off campus. In your application, provide instances of initiative and leadership.
Customize Your Application for Columbia
Research Columbia’s academic programs, culture, and ideals, then match your application with these understandings.
Highlight Your Strengths in Columbia’s Application
Make sure to highlight your abilities and how they can help you succeed as a Columbia University student.
These pointers guarantee that candidates for admission to Columbia University would fit in well there and be able to develop personally after completing their studies there.
Avoid Plagiarism in Essays
The most important step in writing the ideal personal essay is to stay away from plagiarism at all costs. Write your essays independently, and as a pro tip, ensure you don’t exceed the allotted word count.
FAQ on How to get into Columbia University
Q. Is it hard to get into Columbia University for international students
Columbia University is extremely selective and has a very low admission rate (about 3.9% for the class of 2027), making it extremely tough to get in, even for overseas students, but with proper strategic planning, it is very much possible for students to get into Colombia, here at rostrum we have helped plenty students achieve their US college dreams. Contact us now!
Q. How to get into Columbia University as a UAE student
Maintain a high GPA (3.9+) and enrol in demanding courses like IB, A-Levels, or APs in order to be admitted to Columbia University as a student from the United Arab Emirates. If submitting test results, aim for an SAT score of 1510+ or an ACT score of 33+. Participate in worthwhile extracurricular activities, demonstrating influence and leadership, and compose captivating essays that showcase your distinct narrative and intellectual curiosity. To increase your chances of getting accepted, get good recommendation letters, show interest in Columbia by hosting events, and consider applying for Early Decision (Nov 1). Additionally, as Columbia meets 100% of admitted students demonstrated need, look into financial aid possibilities.
Q. How to get into Columbia University as a Hong Kong student
Maintain a high GPA (3.9+) and enrol in demanding courses like IB, HKDSE (with top marks), A-Levels, or APs in order to gain admission to Columbia University as a Hong Kong student. Aim for a SAT score of at least 1510 or an ACT score of at least 33 when submitting test results. Participate in international competitions, research, or leadership positions to develop a strong extracurricular profile. Compose engaging essays that highlight your character, goals, and intellectual curiosity. Obtain glowing recommendation letters and show that you are interested in Columbia by organizing activities and reaching out. Think about using Early Decision.
