Columbia University Admissions

Columbia University stands among the most selective Ivy League institutions, admitting only 4% of applicants from over 59,000 candidates. For the class of 2028, 17% of admitted students came from international backgrounds, showcasing Columbia’s global appeal and competitive edge. Its student-to-staff ratio of 6:1 ensures personalized attention in one of the world’s most academically rigorous environments. 

With graduates earning a median salary of $88,000 (INR 75L) and an employability rate of 89% within two years, the university delivers strong returns. Students from 149 countries contribute to its vibrant and intellectually diverse campus. 

Key Statistics for Columbia University:   

Discover all about the university here: Columbia University 

Connect with upGrad’s experts for a free 1:1 counseling session to explore course options, career pathways, and more at Harvard University. 

The next section outlines the Columbia University admission dates you must track carefully. 

Columbia University Admission Dates 

Columbia University admission dates differ by division. These include Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, the School of General Studies, and the School of Professional Studies. 

For first-year applicants, the Regular Decision deadline is January 1, 2026. Transfer applicants must submit their application by March 1. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, staying ahead of these deadlines is key to securing your spot. 

Read below to understand the key application periods for fall intake at Columbia University. 

Fall Intake 

Columbia University’s Fall intake is the most competitive and widely chosen term across undergraduate and graduate programs.  

Review the table below to check the key Fall 2026 deadlines based on your intended program. 

If you're planning for an earlier academic start, check the upcoming Spring intake deadlines next. 

Spring Intake 

Columbia University’s Spring intake is ideal for students seeking mid-year entry, particularly for select undergraduate and graduate programs.  

Go through the table below to verify the deadlines if you're aiming to join Columbia in Spring 2026.  

For students planning accelerated or pre-college studies, the Summer intake might offer better flexibility. Details ahead. 

Summer Intake 

Columbia University’s Summer intake is best suited for visiting students, pre-college learners, and working professionals seeking academic advancement in a condensed term. Applications for most programs operate on a space-available basis.  

For example, April 20, 2025, is the general deadline for both NYC-based and online pre-college programs, while June 1, 2025, marks the final date for graduate applications to Teachers College. 

Refer to the table below for important Summer 2025 deadlines across key programs. 

Connect with upGrad’s experts for a free 1:1 counseling session to explore course options, career pathways, and more at Harvard University. 

Next, let’s explore in detail Columbia University admission process.

Columbia University Admission Process  

Applying to Columbia University involves a comprehensive and holistic review process designed to identify students who will thrive in its rigorous academic environment and contribute meaningfully to the campus community.  

The process evaluates various aspects of an applicant's profile, ensuring a well-rounded assessment beyond just academic metrics.  

1. Choose Your Application Platform: Columbia University accepts applications through the Common Application and the Coalition Application. Applicants should select one platform and complete all required sections. 
2. Submit Required Documents: Prepare and submit the following materials: 
3. Official high school transcript 
4. School report and counselor recommendation 
5. Two teacher recommendations from academic subjects 
6. Mid-year report (when available) 
7. Application fee of $85 (INR 7,309) or a fee waiver request  
8. Complete Columbia-Specific Questions: Respond to Columbia's supplemental questions, which provide insight into your academic interests and fit for the university. 
9. Optional: Submit Standardized Test Scores: Columbia is test-optional. If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores, they will be considered as part of the holistic review. 
10. Optional: Provide Supplementary Materials: Applicants with significant achievements in areas like research or the arts may submit supplementary materials to enhance their application. 
11. Apply for Financial Aid (if applicable): To be considered for need-based financial aid, submit the necessary financial aid applications by the specified deadlines. 
12. Monitor Application Status: After submission, regularly check your applicant portal for updates, additional requirements, or communications from the admissions office.

Now that you know about the application process, it’s time to understand how Columbia University admission works for its MBA programs. 

Columbia University MBA Admissions  

Columbia University admission to MBA programs spans multiple tracks, including the Full-Time MBA, Executive MBA, and Deferred Enrollment.   

Whether you're applying to the January or August intake, or considering an EMBA, timing plays a major role in your success. 

The following table gives you a complete breakdown of MBA application rounds and deadlines across programs  

Wondering what it actually takes to get into Columbia Business School? Let’s go over the admission requirements next. 

MBA Admission Requirement  

Columbia University admission into its MBA programs is highly selective and data-driven. Columbia Business School emphasizes strong academic records, professional experience, and clarity of goals.  

Here’s a detailed table that breaks down the exact requirements for the Columbia MBA application 

Want to know how you can ease the financial burden once you're in? Let’s look at MBA scholarships next. 

MBA Scholarships 

Columbia University admission to the MBA program doesn’t just stop at acceptance, it opens doors to substantial financial support. Nearly 50% of MBA students receive need-based awards, with an average grant of $20,000 (INR 17.22L). Some scholarships even cover full tuition.  

You should know these details early, as deadlines vary depending on whether you apply for the January or August intake. 

Below is a breakdown of key Columbia University Scholarships for an MBA.  

Thinking about advanced study in another discipline? Here's how Columbia University admission works for its MS programs. 

Columbia University MS Admissions  

Columbia University admission to MS programs runs across multiple schools, each with its own policies and requirements. Having an idea of these requirements will be of great help when deciding college and course. 

Here’s what it takes to meet the MS admission requirements. 

MS Admission Requirement 

Columbia University admission to MS programs in Engineering follows a competitive and structured process.   

GRE scores are optional, giving you flexibility, but strong recommendations and a focused personal statement remain crucial.  

The table below breaks down the exact MS admission requirements for Columbia Engineering. 

Curious about funding your education? Here's how Columbia University supports MS students through scholarships. 

Columbia University MS Scholarships 

Columbia University admission to MS programs also includes access to competitive scholarships that ease tuition costs and reward academic excellence.  

The Shardashish Interschool Fellowship offers up to $50,000 (INR 43.05L) for one academic year, supporting students committed to India's development.  

Other fellowships provide amounts ranging from $20,000 (INR 17.22L) to $40,000, making a real difference in managing graduate school expenses. 

The table below gives key Columbia University Scholarships for MS students.  

Exploring beyond MS and MBA? Here's what you need to know about Columbia University admission to other popular postgraduate programs. 

Columbia University: Other PG Courses Admission 

Columbia University admission also covers several other postgraduate programs, such as the MIA and MPA at SIPA and the LL.M. at Columbia Law School.   

SIPA programs typically expect at least three years of full-time work experience, and though GRE or GMAT scores are optional, submitting strong scores can strengthen your application.  

The LL.M. program does not require test scores but does expect at least one year of post-law school experience. 

Planning to apply? Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for a strong application to these programs. 

Other PG Course Admission Requirement  

Columbia University admission requirements for programs like MIA, MPA, and LL.M. reflect the academic intensity and professional maturity these degrees demand.  

The table below outlines the key admission requirements for these postgraduate programs at Columbia University.  

Now that you’re all caught up with requirements and dates, let’s find out how you can apply to Columbia University in the next section.  

Columbia University Bachelor’s Admissions  

Columbia University received 59,616 applications for the class of 2028, admitting only 4 percent. This intense competition means you must stand out across academics, essays, and extracurriculars.  

The university expects applicants to show sustained academic depth, with most admitted students completing 5 core academic subjects every term for four years. Columbia also requires evidence of college-level preparation in key areas like math, science, and literature. 

What are the Admission Requirements? 

Columbia University admission at the undergraduate level is extremely competitive. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, every part of your application matters. Columbia does not set minimum GPA or test score thresholds, but expects a high level of academic rigor.  

Review the table below to understand what exactly you need to apply to Columbia College or Columbia Engineering. 

If you are concerned about tuition, the next section will walk you through the available scholarships at Columbia University. 

Scholarships at Columbia University 

Columbia meets 100 percent of demonstrated financial need for four years with no loans, only grants and work-study. Families earning under $150,000 (INR 1.29Cr) often pay no tuition, and those earning under $66,000 (INR 56L) have no parent contribution at all. 

The following table outlines scholarship options available to undergraduates at Columbia University.  

Similar Read: Scholarships to Study in the USA for Indian Students 

The next section covers the student services available after Columbia University admission. 

Columbia University Student Support Services 

Columbia University admission is only the starting point. Once you join the university, you gain access to a wide range of services that support your academic growth, career goals, and personal development.  

These resources are built to match the needs of students from different schools, programs, and international backgrounds. 

Below is a list of key support services that help you succeed throughout your time at Columbia.  

• Berick Center for Student Advising (CSA): Provides academic advising, tutoring, and skill-building workshops for Columbia College and Columbia Engineering undergraduates.  
• Peer Academic Skills Consultants: Offer one-on-one sessions focusing on time management, study methods, and exam preparation.  
• Help Rooms: Department-specific support centers for subjects like mathematics and physics, offering additional academic assistance.  
• School of Professional Studies (SPS) Academic Support: Hosts workshops, peer tutoring, and programs like the English Language Conversation Tables to enhance academic skills.  
• Career Design Lab (CDL): Assists SPS students with career planning, offering services like resume reviews, interview preparation, and networking events. 
• Office of Career and Leadership Management: Provides personalized career support for students at the School of Social Work, including job search strategies and leadership development.  
• International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO): Offers visa and immigration advising, workshops, and resources tailored for international students.  

• SPS International Student Resources: Provides specialized career resources and support for international students navigating the U.S. job market.

    

Conclusion  

Columbia University admission is highly competitive with over 59,000 applicants each year. Early Decision applications are due by November 1, 2024, while Regular Decision closes on January 1, 2025. 

Whether you aim to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, MBA, MS, or MD programs, Columbia offers dynamic curriculum, extensive research facilities, and generous financial aid to support deserving students from across the globe.  

If you dream of studying at an Ivy League institution that combines tradition with innovation, Columbia University could be your gateway to a transformative academic journey.