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USAQS #23#12 in USAFounded 1754Private
Ivy League in the heart of NYC. Check your fit with the free College Predictor, see fees, IELTS/GRE requirements and the full admission process below.
▶ Predict my admission chances (free)Admission requirements & key facts
| IELTS | 7 |
| TOEFL iBT | 94 |
| PTE Academic | 65 |
| Duolingo | 120 |
| GRE | Optional |
| GMAT (MBA) | 730 |
| Min GPA | 3.5/4.0 |
| Work experience | 2–4 yrs (MBA only) |
| Tuition (intl) | $50–56k/yr |
| Application fee | $50–100 |
| Acceptance rate | 12% |
| Intl students | 30% |
| Intakes | Fall (Sep), Spring (Jan) |
| Deadline | Dec 15 (Fall) |
| Scholarships | Merit + dept assistantships |
Popular programs
- MS Computer Science
- MS Data Science
- MBA
- MS Financial Eng
- MS Electrical Eng
Known for: Finance, Data Science, Journalism.
After you graduate · USA
- Post-study work: OPT: 12 months (36 months for STEM degrees)
- Visa: F-1 student visa · Work while studying: 20 hrs/week on-campus during term; full-time in breaks
- Living cost: $12,000–20,000/yr
- Documents needed: Academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose, 2–3 Letters of Recommendation, Resume / CV, GRE/GMAT (if required), IELTS / TOEFL, Application fee, Passport copy, Financial proof (I-20)
Step-by-step admission process
- Shortlist programs & note GRE/GMAT policy
- Take IELTS/TOEFL + GRE/GMAT if required
- Prepare SOP, 2–3 LORs, CV & transcripts
- Apply online (Fall deadlines Dec–Jan)
- Pay application fee; submit
- Receive decision → I-20 → F-1 visa
All figures are indicative — confirm on the official site (columbia.edu).
Frequently asked questions
- What IELTS score do I need for Columbia University?
- Columbia University typically requires IELTS 7 (TOEFL 94, PTE 65). GRE: Optional.
- How much does Columbia University cost?
- International tuition is approximately $50–56k/yr, plus living costs of $12,000–20,000/yr. Application fee: $50–100.
- What is the acceptance rate at Columbia University?
- Columbia University has an indicative acceptance rate of about 12% (Highly selective intake).
- What are the intakes and deadlines at Columbia University?
- Intakes: Fall (Sep), Spring (Jan). Typical deadline: Dec 15 (Fall).