Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, is one of the world’s most prestigious Ivy League universities. Known for its academic excellence, influential research, and diverse community, Columbia offers a perfect balance of tradition and innovation.
From undergraduate studies to executive MBAs and doctoral research, Columbia prepares students to lead globally — in finance, health, policy, science, and the arts.
About Columbia University
Founded: 1754 (as King’s College)Columbia is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States. It operates through its renowned schools — including Columbia College, Fu Foundation School of Engineering, Mailman School of Public Health, Teachers College, and the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA).
Columbia University Campuses and Colleges
1. Morningside Heights Campus – Main academic hub in Upper ManhattanRankings and Reputation
Columbia consistently ranks among the top 10 global universities.
#5 – National Universities (2025) – U.S. News & World ReportThe university’s graduates include U.S. Presidents, Nobel laureates, tech pioneers, and leading scientists — a testament to its academic legacy.
Admissions and Application Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: ≈ 4 % (Highly Selective)
- High School GPA: 3.9 or higher recommended
- SAT: 1500 + | ACT: 33 + (test-optional for 2025)
- Application Platforms: Common App or Coalition App
- Application Fee: $85
- Required: Essays, recommendations, transcripts, and activities list
Graduate Admissions
- Minimum GPA: 3.0 (competitive programs 3.5 +)
- GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs
- English Proficiency: TOEFL 100 + / IELTS 7 +
- Résumé & Statement of Purpose
- Two or more recommendation letters
Application Deadlines 2025
- Undergraduate Regular: January 1
- Early Decision: November 1
- Graduate Programs: Vary by school (Nov–March)
Tuition and Fees (2025 Estimate)
| Program | Tuition Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $68,400 |
| Graduate Average | $62,000 – $75,000 |
| MBA (Columbia Business School) | $84,496 |
| EMBA Program | $220,000 (total) |
| MPH (Mailman School of Public Health) | $68,000 |
| Ph.D. Programs | Funded with stipend and tuition waiver |
Additional Costs
- Room & Board: ≈ $18,000 per year
- Health Insurance: $4,000
- Books & Supplies: $1,500
Financial Aid and Student Loans
- Columbia meets 100 % of demonstrated financial need for undergraduates.
- FAFSA and CSS Profile required for U.S. students.
- International students eligible for need-based aid.
- Federal and private student loan options available.
Financial Aid Office and Scholarships
Financial Aid Office:
Columbia University Financial Aid and Educational Financing
1140 Amstel Hall, New York City, NY 10027
212-854-3711, undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu
Scholarship Examples
- Columbia Grant (Awarded automatically based on need)
- Global Scholars Program
- School-Specific Awards (Business, Engineering, Public Health)
Transfer Admissions
Transferring to Columbia is competitive (≈ 10 % acceptance rate).
Requirements:
- At least one year of college credits
- Minimum GPA 3.7 recommended
- Official transcripts, essays, and recommendations
Transfer Deadline: March 1
Top Graduate and Professional Programs
a. Columbia Business School – MBA and EMBA
- Ranked Top 10 globally for Finance and Leadership
- Duration: 20–24 months (MBA) | 18–20 months (EMBA)
- Average GMAT: 730
- Focus: Finance, Consulting, Entrepreneurship
- Executive MBA Schedule: Weekend or Modular format for working professionals
- EMBA Acceptance Rate: ≈ 20 %
b. SIPA – School of International and Public Affairs
One of the world’s best for International Relations and Public Administration.
Degrees Offered:
- Master of International Affairs (MIA)
- Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- Executive MPA (EMPA)
Specializations: Global Policy, Economics, Human Rights, Energy & Environment
c. Mailman School of Public Health – MPH
- Ranked #4 in Public Health nationwide
- MPH Tuition: ≈ $68,000 per year
- Options: Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Global Health
- Hybrid MPH Online available
d. Teachers College – Education and Mental Health Counseling
- Programs: M.A., Ed.M., Ph.D. in Education, Counseling & Psychology
- Master’s in Mental Health Counseling: 60 credits, 2 years
- Focus on clinical practice and community well-being
e. Columbia School of Social Work – PhD & MSW
- Oldest social work school in the U.S.
- Online and on-campus MSW options
- Research in social policy, child welfare, and equity
f. School of Engineering – Computer Science & Industrial Design
- Degrees: B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
- Concentrations: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Sustainability Design
Columbia University PhD Programs
Columbia offers fully-funded PhD programs in:
- Education (Teachers College)
- Economics and Finance
- Psychology and Neuroscience
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Public Health and Sociology
Funding: Includes tuition waiver + annual stipend ($38,000 – $45,000).
Columbia University Online Learning
Columbia Online provides flexible, accredited degrees and certificates through:
- Columbia Online MBA Modules
- Hybrid MPH Programs
- Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificates
- Executive Education for Professionals
Programs use Canvas LMS and offer 24/7 virtual library access, tech support, and networking tools such as Columbia Wi-Fi and the myColumbia portal.
Columbia University Vendor & Student Services
- Vendor Management: Supports procurement and contract operations
- Columbia Wi-Fi: Free secure wireless access for students and staff
- Student Support: Counseling, career advising, and housing services
Financial Economics and Accounting Programs
Columbia Business School also offers elite specializations in:
- M.S. in Financial Economics
- Master’s in Accounting and Fund Management
- Doctorate in Finance (DBA Track)
Graduates often enter top-tier roles at Goldman Sachs, McKinsey, and the World Bank.
Life at Columbia University
Studying in New York City means immersing yourself in culture, creativity, and career opportunities.
Campus Highlights
- Butler Library & Low Memorial Library iconic architecture
- Student clubs in policy, art, finance, and tech
- On-campus housing & summer storage facilities
Columbia New York Times Subscription:
All students receive free access to The New York Times digital edition.
Columbia University Graduate Funding and Loans
Students can apply for:
- Federal Direct Loans (Stafford, PLUS)
- Private Educational Loans
- Graduate Assistantships
- Endowed Fellowships like the Harriman Fellowship for International Studies
Partnerships and Collaborations
Columbia collaborates with institutions such as:
- University of Maryland – College Park (joint policy projects)
- University of Missouri – Columbia (shared public health initiatives)
- ECPI University & Strayer University District of Columbia (transfer credit pathways)
Why Choose Columbia University
Ivy League excellence with global reach
Top 10 rankings in MBA, Public Health, and International Relations
Generous financial aid and fully funded PhD options
Located in New York City — the epicenter of business and culture
Extensive network of 300,000 + alumni worldwide
Contact Information
Columbia University
116th Street & Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
+1 212-854-1754
www.columbia.edu
admissions@columbia.edu
FAQs About Columbia University
Q1. Is Columbia University accredited?
Yes, by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Q2. What is the acceptance rate for Columbia?
Around 4 %, making it one of the most selective universities in the U.S.
Q3. How much does tuition cost?
Undergraduate tuition ≈ $68,400 per year; graduate and professional programs $62,000–$84,000.
Q4. Does Columbia offer online programs?
Yes, through Columbia Online — including MPH, MSW, and Executive MBA options.
Q5. How do I apply for financial aid?
Submit FAFSA and CSS Profile before the priority deadline (February 15).
Q6. What is the MBA ranking?
Columbia Business School ranks Top 10 globally for MBA and EMBA programs.
Q7. Does Columbia offer PhD funding?
Yes, most doctoral students receive full funding and annual stipends.
