Columbia University
Columbia University

Columbia University Admissions & Rankings Guide 2026

Columbia University stands as a titan of global higher education – a historic Ivy League institution seamlessly fused with the relentless energy of New York City. As of the 2026 academic year, Columbia is not merely a university; it is a dynamic ecosystem of unparalleled academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and transformative urban engagement. Founded in 1754 as King’s College, it is the fifth-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and the oldest in New York State. The university consistently ranks among the best globally and serves as a center for innovation across disciplines – from liberal arts and sciences to engineering, business, journalism, and medicine.

Key Highlights: Columbia University

  • History & Evolution: From King’s College to a Global University
  • Ranking and Reputation: A Consistent Presence at the Summit
  • Campus & Location
  • Acceptance Rate & Admissions Statistics: Columbia University
  • Academic Structure: Schools, Colleges, and Departments
  • Top Programs at Columbia University: Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
  • Cost of Studying at Columbia University
  • Financial Aid & Scholarships: Columbia University 
  • Career Outcomes & Alumni Success: Columbia University
  • Notable Alumni: Columbia University
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs
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History & Evolution: From King’s College to a Global University

Columbia’s history is a microcosm of American intellectual and social development. Its journey from a colonial college to a modern global university underscores its adaptive and pioneering spirit. Founded in 1754 as King’s College by royal charter of King George II of England, Columbia is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of New York and the fifth oldest in the United States.

  • 1754 – 1784: Originally located in lower Manhattan, the college suspended classes during the American Revolution.
  • Post-Revolution: Reopened in 1784 as Columbia College, reflecting the patriotic spirit of the new nation.
  • 1897: The university moved to its current iconic Morningside Heights campus, designed by the famed architects McKim, Mead & White as an “Acropolis for America.”
  • 2020-2026: The university has seen a massive expansion into the Manhattanville Campus, a $6.3 billion, 17-acre development that houses the Jerome L. Greene Science Center and the world-renowned Columbia Business School.

Ranking and Reputation: A Consistent Presence at the Summit

Ranking and Reputation_ A Consistent Presence at the Summit

Columbia consistently maintains its status as a top-tier global institution. In the 2025-2026 cycle, its reputation is bolstered by its leadership in research output and its “Global Centers” network.

Ranking Body2025-2026 Rank (National)2025-2026 Rank (Global)
QS World University RankingsTop 1034th
U.S. News & World ReportTop 157th
Times Higher Education (THE)Top 1011th
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWY)Top 87th

In recent years, Columbia faced scrutiny over past reporting of ranking data, leading to a legal settlement and a decision to withdraw from US News rankings, highlighting the university’s evolving relationship with ranking systems. Despite this, Columbia’s reputation remains elite due to its research output, faculty excellence, and historic prestige.

Beyond its overall standing, Columbia demonstrates exceptional strength in specific fields and professional disciplines. Its graduate and professional schools are widely regarded as leaders in their respective areas, according to U.S. News & World Report.

  • Columbia Law School: Ranked 4th nationally.
  • Mailman School of Public Health: Ranked 4th nationally.
  • School of Social Work: Ranked 3rd (tie) nationally.
  • Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons: Ranked 6th for research nationally.
  • Columbia Business School: Ranked 8th nationally.
  • Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science: Ranked 14th (tie) for graduate programs nationally.

Campus & Location

Columbia University’s main campus is situated in Morningside Heights, Manhattan, with additional facilities across New York City, including notable research and medical campuses.

  • Main Campus: Morningside Heights – historic academic buildings, libraries, and residential halls.
  • Medical Campus: Columbia University Irving Medical Center in Washington Heights.
  • Global Centers: Centers in cities like Paris, Beijing, Amman, and Nairobi to support global research and programs.

The campus sits in one of the world’s most vibrant cities – New York City, offering unmatched cultural, professional, and research opportunities for students.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions Statistics: Columbia University

Acceptance Rate & Admissions Statistics_ Columbia University

For the Class of 2029, Columbia accepted 2,946 students from 59,616 applications, resulting in an acceptance rate of 4.9 percent. The university enrolled 1,806 first-year students in the Class of 2029, making it the largest ever incoming class for both Columbia College and the School of Engineering and Applied Science.

The admissions landscape at Columbia has become increasingly competitive over the past decade:

Class YearTotal ApplicationsStudents AdmittedAcceptance Rate
Class of 202440,0002,3606.1%
Class of 202560,5512,3583.9%
Class of 202660,3772,2533.7%
Class of 202757,1262,2854.0%
Class of 202860,2482,3273.9%
Class of 202959,6162,9464.9%

Columbia is ranked number 4 in Lowest Acceptance Rates among national universities, making it one of the most selective institutions in the United States. The slight increase in acceptance rate for the Class of 2029 represents a strategic decision to admit a larger incoming class rather than a decrease in selectivity standards.

Early Decision Advantage

Columbia’s Early Decision acceptance rate has historically hovered between 10-15 percent, providing a significantly higher admission probability compared to Regular Decision. For the Class of 2029, Columbia received 5,872 Early Decision applications, representing a decrease from the previous year.

Early Decision applicants demonstrate strong commitment to Columbia, which the admissions committee values highly. Students who apply Early Decision must commit to attending if admitted, making this option suitable only for those certain that Columbia is their top choice.

Academic Structure: Schools, Colleges, and Departments

Columbia is organized into 20 distinct schools, encompassing both undergraduate colleges and numerous graduate and professional divisions. This structure allows for specialized excellence within individual schools while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the university. For undergraduates, the renowned Core Curriculum serves as a powerful unifying experience, providing a shared intellectual foundation for all students regardless of their chosen major or school.

The university’s academic life is organized into the following primary divisions.

Undergraduate Colleges

College/School NameYear FoundedDescription
Columbia College1754The university’s primary and oldest liberal arts college.
Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science1864Primary engineering and applied science school for undergraduates.
School of General Studies1947A full liberal arts college for non-traditional students.
Barnard College (Affiliate)1889A women’s liberal arts college academically affiliated with Columbia.

Selected Graduate & Professional Schools

College/School NameYear Founded
Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons1767
Columbia Law School1858
Columbia Graduate School of Arts and Sciences1880
Teachers College, Columbia University (Affiliate)1887
Graduate School of Journalism1912
Columbia Business School1916
Mailman School of Public Health1922
School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)1946
School of the Arts1965
School of Professional Studies1995
Columbia Climate School2020

Columbia maintains a unique relationship with several affiliated institutions. Barnard College is a financially independent women’s liberal arts college that is an official faculty of the university. Its graduates receive a diploma signed by the presidents of both Columbia and Barnard. Similarly, Teachers College operates as the university’s official Graduate School of Education, with its graduates receiving Columbia University degrees.

This intricate structure houses the signature programs and research initiatives that have cemented Columbia’s reputation for academic excellence and innovation.

Top Programs at Columbia University: Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees

Columbia offers over 80 undergraduate majors and more than 200 graduate programs. The university’s location in New York City provides unparalleled access to internships, research opportunities, and industry connections across virtually every field.

Most Popular Undergraduate Majors

Based on recent enrollment data, the most sought-after undergraduate programs include:

  1. Computer Science: With NYC’s thriving tech sector, Columbia’s CS program covers artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students benefit from proximity to Google, Meta, Amazon, and numerous startups.
  2. Economics: One of the largest departments, preparing students for careers in finance, consulting, research, and public policy.
  3. Political Science: Located near the United Nations and numerous international organizations, Columbia’s political science program attracts students interested in government, diplomacy, and law.
  4. Engineering (Various Disciplines): Biomedical, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering programs combine rigorous theoretical foundations with hands-on laboratory experience and industry partnerships.
  5. Neuroscience and Behavior: Interdisciplinary program combining psychology, biology, and cognitive science.
  6. English and Comparative Literature: Strong foundation in literary analysis, critical thinking, and writing.
  7. History: Comprehensive coverage of American, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern history.
  8. Applied Mathematics: Quantitative training applicable to finance, technology, and research careers.
  9. Psychology: Research-driven program offered in collaboration with Barnard College, covering cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, and clinical psychology.
  10. Creative Writing: Offered through the renowned School of the Arts, with instruction from Pulitzer Prize-winning authors.

Distinguished Graduate Programs

Columbia’s graduate and professional programs consistently rank among the nation’s best:

ProgramSchoolNotable Features
MBAColumbia Business SchoolTop-10 globally, strong finance focus, NYC location advantage
Juris Doctor (JD)Columbia Law SchoolElite placement in top law firms and clerkships
Master of International Affairs (MIA)School of International and Public AffairsUN proximity, global focus
MS in Computer ScienceSchool of EngineeringSpecializations in AI, machine learning, and data science
MS in Data ScienceSchool of EngineeringInterdisciplinary program combining statistics, CS, and domain expertise
Master of Science in JournalismColumbia Journalism SchoolPulitzer Prize affiliation, prestigious in the industry
MS in Financial EngineeringSchool of Engineering100% placement rate within three months of graduation
Master of Public Health (MPH)Mailman School of Public HealthLeading public health research institution
Master of ArchitectureGSAPPInternationally recognized architecture program
MFA ProgramsSchool of the ArtsFilm, visual arts, writing, and theatre

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Cost of Studying at Columbia University

Columbia University is a private Ivy League institution, and studying here represents a significant financial investment. Due to its location in New York City – one of the most expensive cities in the world – the total cost of attendance is higher compared to many other U.S. universities. However, Columbia balances this with strong financial aid and scholarship support, especially for undergraduate students.

Undergraduate Cost of Attendance

Here is the Estimated Annual Costs for Undergraduate Students:

Expense CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Tuition & Mandatory Fees$72,900 – $73,500
Room & Board (On-Campus)$19,000 – $20,000
Books & Academic Supplies$1,200 – $2,000
Health Insurance$4,000 – $4,500
Personal & Miscellaneous Expenses$3,000 – $3,500
Total Estimated Annual Cost$98,000 – $103,000

For most undergraduate students, the total annual cost exceeds $100,000, making Columbia one of the most expensive universities in the U.S. before financial aid.

Graduate Cost of Attendance 

Graduate tuition at Columbia varies significantly by school and program. Professional degrees such as MBA, Law, and Medicine tend to be more expensive than academic master’s programs.

Expense CategoryEstimated Cost (USD)
Tuition & Program Fees$58,000 – $65,000
Housing & Living Expenses$20,000 – $22,000
Books & Course Materials$1,500 – $2,500
Health Insurance$4,000 – $4,500
Personal Expenses$3,000 – $4,000
Total Estimated Annual Cost$85,000 – $95,000

MBA, JD, and MD programs may exceed $100,000 per year when tuition and living expenses are combined.

Program-Wise Tuition Examples

Program / SchoolEstimated Annual Tuition
Columbia College (BA/BS)$73,000
Engineering (Undergraduate)$73,000
MS in Computer Science$62,000
MBA (Columbia Business School)$84,000
JD (Columbia Law School)$80,000
MD (Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons)$70,000+

These figures are approximate and may vary slightly depending on course load, specialization, and additional program fees.

Living Expenses in New York City

Living in New York City significantly impacts the overall cost of studying at Columbia.

Expense TypeEstimated Monthly Cost (USD)
Rent (Shared Apartment)$1,200 – $1,800
Food & Groceries$500 – $700
Transportation$130 – $150
Utilities & Internet$150 – $200
Personal Expenses$300 – $400
Total Monthly Living Cost$2,300 – $3,200

Students who live off-campus may spend more or less depending on location, lifestyle, and housing choices.

Health Insurance Requirement

Columbia University requires all students to have comprehensive health insurance. Students who do not have equivalent coverage must enroll in the Columbia Student Health Insurance Plan.

  • Estimated Cost: $4,000 – $4,500 per year
  • Covers medical care, mental health services, and emergency treatment
  • Mandatory unless a waiver is approved

Additional & Hidden Costs to Consider

ExpenseEstimated Cost (Annual)
Visa & SEVIS Fees (International Students)$400 – $600
Laptop & Technology$1,000 – $2,000 (one-time)
Internship & Career Expenses$500 – $1,500
Winter Clothing (NYC Climate)$300 – $600

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Columbia is committed to making its education affordable and has implemented policies to support students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

  • Students Receiving Aid: Approximately 50% of all undergraduate students receive grant aid directly from Columbia.
  • Average Grant Award: The average grant size for those receiving aid is $46,516.
  • Support for Lower-Income Families: A significant portion of the student body comes from lower- and middle-income backgrounds. 26% of students have family incomes below $60,000, and 16% receive Federal Pell Grants, which primarily support students from low-income households.
  • Types of Scholarships: In addition to need-based aid, the university offers a number of named merit-based scholarships to incoming first-year students, including the John W. Kluge Scholars and John Jay Scholars programs.

Meeting these financial requirements is the final step in a journey that begins with navigating the university’s rigorous application and admissions process.

Application Essentials: Key Requirements for Admission

Gaining admission to a top-tier university like Columbia involves a holistic review process that goes far beyond quantitative metrics. While exceptional academic achievement is a foundational requirement, the admissions committee seeks to understand each applicant’s intellectual curiosity, personal character, and potential to contribute to the vibrant campus community. The source material does not provide specific GPA or test score cutoffs, but it outlines the general components necessary for a competitive application.

Undergraduate Applicants

Admissions officers are looking for a narrative of academic excellence and intellectual vitality, which must be substantiated by the following components submitted through the Common Application:

  • High School Transcript: Demonstrating a rigorous curriculum with excellent grades.
  • Standardized Test Scores: Results from the SAT or ACT.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Evaluations from teachers and counselors who can speak to an applicant’s academic and personal qualities.
  • Personal Essays: These are a critical component, offering applicants the opportunity to convey their unique voice, experiences, and intellectual passions.

Graduate Applicants

For graduate and professional programs, application requirements vary significantly by school and department. Admissions committees evaluate a candidate’s readiness for advanced, specialized study through these common components:

  • Undergraduate Transcripts: A record of all previous university-level coursework.
  • Standardized Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required, depending on the program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Academic or professional references are crucial.
  • Statement of Purpose: A detailed essay outlining the applicant’s academic interests, research goals, and reasons for pursuing a specific graduate program at Columbia.

International Applicants

In addition to the standard application materials for their desired program, international students must provide evidence of their readiness to study in an English-language academic environment. This typically includes:

  • Proof of English Proficiency: Official scores from the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
  • Credential Evaluation: Transcripts from non-U.S. institutions may need to be officially evaluated.
  • Student Visa Process: Admitted international students must complete the necessary steps to obtain a U.S. student visa.

For those who successfully navigate this demanding process, life at Columbia offers a rich blend of academic rigor and extracurricular opportunities.

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Career Outcomes & Alumni Success: Columbia University

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success_ Columbia University

Columbia University is globally recognized not only for academic excellence but also for its exceptional career outcomes and influential alumni network. Graduates of Columbia consistently secure leadership roles across industries, benefit from strong employer demand, and gain access to one of the most powerful professional networks in the world.

Career Placement & Employment Outcomes

Columbia students enjoy outstanding post-graduation success, supported by rigorous academics, real-world exposure, and strong employer engagement.

Key highlights include:

  • 90–96% of graduates across schools are employed or enrolled in graduate/professional programs within 6 months of graduation
  • High placement rates in finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, media, public policy, and academia
  • Strong outcomes for both undergraduate and graduate students

The university’s strategic location in New York City – a global hub for business, finance, media, diplomacy, and technology – gives students unmatched access to internships, networking, and full-time roles.

Average Salary & Compensation Trends

Columbia graduates command competitive starting salaries, especially in professional and STEM-focused programs.

Program Level / SchoolAverage Starting Salary (USD)
Undergraduate (Overall Avg.)$75,000 – $85,000
Engineering & Computer Science$95,000 – $115,000
Columbia Business School (MBA)$175,000+ (Base + Bonus)
Law School (JD – Private Sector)$190,000+
School of General Studies (Median Total Compensation)$100,000+ for over 50% of graduates

Top Recruiting Employers

Columbia University maintains strong recruitment relationships with Fortune 500 companies, global institutions, startups, and international organizations.

  • Technology: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple
  • Finance & Consulting: Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, McKinsey & Company, BCG, Bain & Company.
  • Media & Journalism: Bloomberg, The New York Times, CNN, NBCUniversal
  • Public & Global Organizations: United Nations, World Bank, IMF
  • Healthcare & Research: Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, NIH

These employers actively recruit Columbia students for internships, fellowships, and full-time roles through on-campus hiring programs and career fairs.

Notable Alumni: Columbia University

Notable Alumni_ Columbia University

Columbia’s legacy is most vividly embodied in the extraordinary achievements of its alumni. With over 350,000 living graduates spanning the globe, the Columbia network is a powerful force in virtually every field of human endeavor.

FieldNotable Alumni Degree/YearMajor Achievement
Politics & LeadershipBarack ObamaB.A. Political Science, 198344th U.S. President; First African-American President; Nobel Peace Prize (2009)
Franklin D. RooseveltColumbia Law School, 1904-190732nd U.S. President; Led U.S. through Great Depression and WWII
Theodore RooseveltColumbia Law School, 188026th U.S. President; Nobel Peace Prize (1904); Youngest U.S. President
Alexander HamiltonKing’s College, 1773Founding Father; First U.S. Secretary of Treasury; Author of Federalist Papers
Antony BlinkenB.A., J.D.71st U.S. Secretary of State (2021-2025)
Eric HolderJ.D., Columbia LawFirst African-American U.S. Attorney General
Ruth Bader GinsburgColumbia Law SchoolU.S. Supreme Court Justice; Gender equality icon
Business & FinanceWarren BuffettM.S. Economics, 1951CEO Berkshire Hathaway; Net worth $138.7 billion (2025); “Oracle of Omaha”
Ursula BurnsM.S. Mechanical Engineering, 1981First African-American woman CEO of Fortune 500 company (Xerox)
Leonard BlavatnikM.A.Founder Access Industries; Billionaire investor
Vikram PanditPh.D. FinanceFormer CEO of Citigroup
Arts & EntertainmentJake GyllenhaalB.A.Oscar-nominated actor; Brokeback Mountain, Nightcrawler
Timothée ChalametAttendedOscar-nominated actor; Call Me By Your Name, Dune
Maggie GyllenhaalB.A. Literature & East Asian StudiesEmmy-winning actress and director
James FrancoM.F.A.Actor, director, writer; 127 Hours, Spider-Man
Joseph Gordon-LevittB.A.Actor and director; Inception, The Dark Knight Rises
Kate McKinnonB.A.Emmy-winning comedian; Saturday Night Live
Julia StilesB.A. English LiteratureActress; 10 Things I Hate About You, The Bourne Identity
Kerry WashingtonB.A.Emmy-nominated actress; Scandal
Telly SavalasB.A. 1946Emmy-winning actor; Kojak
Science & TechnologyNeil deGrasse TysonPh.D. AstrophysicsAstrophysicist, science communicator, Cosmos host
Isaac AsimovB.A., M.A., Ph.D. ChemistryRenowned science fiction author; Foundation series
Edwin Howard ArmstrongB.S.Inventor of FM radio
Brian GreenePh.D. PhysicsTheoretical physicist; string theory expert; author
Robert LefkowitzFacultyNobel Prize in Chemistry (2012)
Baruj BenacerrafB.A. 1942Nobel Prize-winning immunologist
Literature & JournalismLangston HughesAttendedHarlem Renaissance leader; poet and social activist
J.D. SalingerAttended 1939Author of The Catcher in the Rye
Allen GinsbergB.A.Beat Generation poet; Howl
Orhan PamukFacultyNobel Prize in Literature (2006)
Herman WoukB.A. 1934Pulitzer Prize-winning author; The Caine Mutiny
Jack KerouacAttendedBeat Generation novelist; On the Road
EconomicsJoseph StiglitzFacultyNobel Prize in Economics (2001)
Edmund PhelpsFacultyNobel Prize in Economics (2006)
Milton FriedmanAttendedNobel Prize in Economics (1976)
Bhimrao AmbedkarPh.D. Economics, 1927Indian economist and social reformer; principal architect of Indian Constitution
Music & Performing ArtsAlicia KeysB.A.15-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter
Art GarfunkelM.A.Singer; Simon & Garfunkel; Grammy winner
Ira GershwinB.A.Legendary Broadway lyricist; Pulitzer Prize winner
Richard RodgersAttendedEmmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony Award-winning composer
Culinary ArtsJacques PépinB.A. 197024-time James Beard Award winner; culinary legend
Aviation & ExplorationAmelia EarhartAttended pre-medFirst female pilot to fly solo across Atlantic
Roy Chapman AndrewsM.A.Explorer and paleontologist; inspiration for Indiana Jones

Conclusion

To choose Columbia is to choose a life of engaged intensity. It is to accept the rigorous challenge of the Core, the demanding pace of New York City, and the high expectations of a legacy defined by impact. In return, it offers an education that is not merely acquired but lived – a preparation for leadership forged in the unique furnace of one of the world’s great research universities, set in the heart of one of the world’s great cities. As it looks to the future from its campuses in Morningside Heights and Manhattanville, Columbia University continues to fulfill its founding charge: In lumine Tuo videbimus lumen – “In Thy light shall we see light.” For the students of today and tomorrow, it remains a unparalleled source of illumination, empowering them to see, understand, and ultimately, illuminate the world.

FAQs

Where is Columbia University located?

Columbia University is located in Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York City, with additional campuses and research facilities across NYC, including the Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Is Columbia University part of the Ivy League?

Yes, Columbia University is a proud member of the Ivy League, a group of eight elite private universities in the United States known for academic excellence, selectivity, and global prestige.

What GPA do I need to get into Columbia?

While Columbia doesn’t publish a minimum GPA requirement, over 95 percent of accepted students ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class. Most successful applicants have unweighted GPAs of 3.9 or higher and have taken the most rigorous courses available at their schools, including Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes.

What is the average starting salary for Columbia graduates?

Six years after graduation, the median salary for Columbia graduates is $88,535. However, this varies significantly by field-graduates in engineering, business, and technology typically earn substantially higher starting salaries, often exceeding $100,000. Columbia’s MS in Financial Engineering program boasts a 100 percent placement rate within three months of graduation.

Why should I choose Columbia over Harvard, Yale, or Princeton?

Columbia offers unique advantages: New York City location providing unparalleled internship and cultural opportunities, the comprehensive Core Curriculum creating intellectual community, stronger professional school integration, proximity to global institutions like the UN, and a more diverse, international student body (40 percent international students). Students who thrive in urban environments and want immediate access to industry leaders, world-class museums, and global organizations often prefer Columbia.

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