Columbia University

United States · New York

Columbia University

Private School

United States

Country

New York

City

36649

Total Students

Private

Status

About the University

Columbia University overview

Columbia University, which was founded in 1754 as King's College by the royal charter of King George II of England, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the United States. Originally situated in Lower Manhattan, the university relocated to Morningside Heights in 1897, changing its name to Columbia College to symbolize the growing American patriotism following the American Revolutionary War.

Throughout its history, Columbia has been a witness to and participant in significant events, including its temporary closure during the American Revolution and the significant involvement of its academics in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Columbia University, an Ivy League school known for its challenging academic programs and contributions to a variety of fields, has awarded numerous Fields Medals and Nobel Prizes to its alumni and faculty, in addition to administering the Pulitzer Prizes created by alumnus Joseph Pulitzer.

With notable achievements spanning medical breakthroughs, law, public policy, and technological advances, the university maintains its status not only as a leader in education but also as an institution that is a major contributor to the global debate on pressing current issues such as climate change and public health.

About the University

About Columbia University

City

New York

Country

United States

Type

Private

Number of Students

36649

#20

Times Universities

#38

QS World

#15

National Ranking

Quality Score

Shanghai List

Faculties & Programs

Columbia University faculties and programs

0 results listed

No programs match your search criteria.

Scholarship Opportunities

Columbia University scholarships and financial aid

Columbia University does not award scholarships based on merit or aptitude. It only provides need-based financial support by assessing the financial situation of applicants and their families. Financial support for international students is based on the “need aware” principle. Students' applications are evaluated as a whole, looking at the financial support they need. Applying for financial support directly affects students' chances of being accepted. Students must indicate that they wish to apply for financial support when completing their school application.

Application Process

How to get into Columbia University

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate

Application Materials

Common App or Coalition Application
Application Fee
School Report
Teacher Evaluations
Official Transcripts from Secondary School
Mid-Year Report

Academic Requirements

Successful completion of basic education
High School Diploma
Certificate in English Proficiency
- Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic.
High Grade Point Average
SAT or ACT Standardized Test Score (optional)
Supplemental Application Essays

Please note that AP and IB exam scores are considered additional pieces of academic information and can help the university understand your level of preparation and potential for college level work. AP and IB exam scores do not guarantee admission to Columbia University.

Graduate

Bachelor's Degree Diploma
High Grade Point Average
Official transcripts of the courses taken by the applicant during college/university education
Work experience may be required for certain programs
Certificate in English Proficiency
- Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT.
GRE/GMAT exam score may be required in accordance with the specific admission requirements of certain programs.

Campus

Take a closer look at Columbia University

The main campus of Columbia University is on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York City. Riverside Park and Broadway surround Morningside Heights, with West 114th Street to the south and West 120th Street to the north. The campus is known for having a nice mix of Neoclassical and modern architectural styles. The famous Low Memorial Library, which was built in the Roman classical style and serves as the administrative hub of the campus, is the center of attention. The Butler Library is one of the most important buildings on campus for research and study.

The Alma Mater sculpture is another famous building that has come to represent the university's academic and cultural presence. There are several important subway lines close to Columbia University that make getting to and from school easy. For example, the 1 train stops at 116th Street and goes directly under Broadway, making it easy to get to other parts of Manhattan and beyond. A lot of bus lines stop near the school, too. Columbia University offers a range of housing choices for students, such as standard dorms, apartment-style units, and brownstones.

Most of these are located within walking distance of the main academic buildings. This clever design not only creates a close-knit community feel, but it also makes things easier by making it simple to get from classes to libraries to homes.

Campus Life

The rich cultural and intellectual atmosphere of New York City deeply influences the dynamic and inclusive student experience at Columbia University. The university boasts an impressive array of over 500 student organizations, covering a diverse range of interests and passions. These include cultural clubs, political advocacy groups, performing arts societies, and academic unions. These organizations offer students the chance to fully immerse themselves in their passions, take charge of projects, and build relationships with a supportive network of individuals who share similar interests.

The Varsity Show, an annual musical that students create and perform, is one of the most highly anticipated events on campus. It humorously reflects life in Columbia and has been a beloved tradition since it first began in 1894. The university also organizes a variety of prestigious events throughout the academic year that enhance the student experience. For example, the World Leaders Forum invites global heads of state and other international dignitaries to campus, providing students with exclusive perspectives on global politics and policy straight from influential figures.

In addition, Columbia's location in New York City offers students the opportunity to expand their learning beyond the campus. They can gain valuable experience through internships, immerse themselves in diverse cultural experiences, and build professional networks in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. The city serves as an expansive classroom, offering students exceptional opportunities to explore museums, theaters, multinational corporations, and non-profit organizations. These resources greatly enrich the educational experience at Columbia.

Student Profile