Columbia University is one of the world’s most important centers of research and at the same time a distinctive and distinguished learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many scholarly and professional fields. The University recognizes the importance of its location in New York City and seeks to link its research and teaching to the vast resources of a great metropolis. It is globally recognized, ranking 7th in the world according to recent metrics. The university offers a range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across multiple fieldsThe application deadlines for many programs are in January or March, but they vary depending on the specific program
Columbia University is one of the top-ranked private universities in New York City, United States. It is one of the universities in the USA, as well as the oldest university in New York. For more than a decade, Columbia University has ranked among the top 25 colleges in the United States. Columbia University consistently ranks among the top global institutions. As of 2024-2025, U.S. News & World Report (2023): #7 globally and #12 in national rankings, QS World University Rankings: #34.Times Higher Education: #17. Barack Hussein Obama II is one of the famous novel laureates of this university.
Location: New York City, New York, USA
Available Programs: Offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees .
Application Time:
- Undergraduate: Early Decision: November | Regular Decision: January
- Graduate: Varies by program; typically December to February deadlines.
Study Areas: Program List
Columbia University offers a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines. Here is a breakdown of key study areas:
Undergraduate Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences: Anthropology, Art History, Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology
- Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics
- Engineering and Technology: Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Programs: Sustainable Development, Urban Studies
Graduate Programs (Master’s and Ph.D.)
- STEM Fields:
- Data Science and Analytics: Applied Analytics, Business Analytics, Operations Research
- Engineering: Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Advanced programs in computing and AI applications
- Health and Public Policy: Public Health Data Science, Healthcare Administration
- Business and Economics: MBA, Finance, Marketing, Management Science
Other Specialized Programs
- Law: LLM and JD programs
- Arts and Media: Film, Visual Arts, Music
- Public Policy and International Affairs: Global Affairs, Public Administration
Columbia is known for its flexibility, allowing students to pursue dual degrees and interdisciplinary programs, especially at the graduate level
Admission Requirements (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.)
Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
- GPA: Competitive (3.7+ recommended)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (100-105) or IELTS (7.0-7.5)
- Standardized Tests: SAT 1490-1560 (700 or higher in Writing Section)/ACT 34-35 (optional for some programs)
- Additional Documents: High school transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and extracurricular activities involvement.
Master’s Degree Requirements
- GPA: Minimum 3.5 (90%) (varies by program)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (100+) or IELTS (7.0+)
- Standardized Tests: GRE (91% in Quantitative Section)/GMAT 550-780 required for many programs
- Additional Documents: Bachelor’s degree transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and sometimes professional experience
Ph.D. Program Requirements
- GPA: Strong academic background (3.5+ GPA recommended)
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.0+)
- Standardized Tests: GRE (required by some departments)
- Additional Documents: Master’s degree transcripts, research proposal, letters of recommendation, and relevant research experiences
Columbia University values well-rounded applications, including extracurricular achievements and a strong personal statement to showcase the applicant’s goals and fit within the university’s academic environment.
Required Documents to Apply
For Undergraduate:
- Application Fee: 85 USD (~6,700 INR)
- •Autobiographical information
- •English language proficiency:
- •A list of student’s activities, achievements, employment, etc
- •Personal essay
- •Official high-school transcripts
- •2 Letter of recommendation(For Engineering applicants, 1 should be from a science or math teacher)
- •School Profile
- •Completed Mid-year report
- •Statement of PurposeInterview
For Graduate:
Application Fee: 85 USD (6956 INR)
•Every post-secondary institution transcripts
•English Language Proficiency Score
•Personal essay
•2-3 Letter of Recommendation
•Statement of Purpose
•Personal Statement (250-1000 words)
•CV or Resume
Tuition Fees for International Students (2024)
- Bachelor’s Programs: Approx. $60,514 per year
- Master’s Programs: Ranges from $52,072 to $95,328 per year, depending on the program
- Ph.D. Programs: Tuition is often covered through fellowships, research/teaching assistantships, or grants
Estimated Living Expenses (New York City)
- Housing: $12,000 – $18,000 per year
- Food and Dining: $3,000 – $5,500 per year
- Transportation: $1,500 – $2,000 per year
- Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses: $2,000 – $3,500 per year
- Total Living Expenses: Approx. $20,000 – $28,000 annually, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices
Living in New York City can be expensive, but Columbia provides options such as on-campus housing to help students manage costs. Additionally, students can apply for part-time jobs or assistantships to offset some living expenses.
Why Choose Columbia University?
Columbia offers a highly regarded education with global connections, cutting-edge research facilities, and a diverse community. The location in New York City provides students with access to countless professional and cultural opportunities, making it an ideal place for personal and career growth
Suggestions for International Applicants
- Apply early to meet visa processing timelines.
- Prepare a compelling personal statement that reflects your academic and professional goals.
- Seek guidance from academic advisors or education consultants familiar with U.S. university applications
Available Scholarships for International Students
- Helen Lansdowne Resor Scholarship:
- Columbia University Scholarships
- International Merit Scholarship
- Teaching and Student Assistantships
- others