Columbia University Admissions 2026: Application Deadline, Eligibility & Fees

Columbia University Admissions 2026: Application Deadline, Eligibility & Fees

New York City, New YorkLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1754established year
36649enrollment
Private (Not for Profit)
New York Campuscampus
7.2/10
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Shreyashi Pathak

Study Abroad Expert | Updated on - Feb 16, 2026

Columbia University admissions remain highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of just 4.29% as per 2025 intake stats. Undergraduate applicants for 2026 can apply via Early Decision by Nov 1, 2025 (financial aid by Nov 15), or Regular Decision by Jan 1, 2026 (financial aid by Feb 15). Early Decision results release in mid-December, while Regular Decision notifications arrive in late March, with final responses due May 1 and transcript submissions by late June 2026. Graduate program deadlines vary by department, typically between December 2025 and March 2026. MBA applicants can target January or August 2026 intakes, with Round 3 closing on March 26, 2026, making early submissions crucial for visa processing, scholarships, and course registration.

Indian students applying to Columbia University must meet rigorous academic and language requirements. A 3- or 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.5 GPA (90%) is expected for graduate programs. English proficiency tests such as TOEFL (100), IELTS (7.0–7.5), or DET (135) are mandatory. Other key documents include SOPs, essays, 2–3 recommendation letters, a resume, and sometimes GRE or GMAT scores depending on the program. Undergraduate applicants must submit transcripts, essays, and test scores if available, along with IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 105.

Explore: Intakes in USA in 2026


Columbia University Acceptance Rate Trends

In Fall 2025, 59,616 students applied for Columbia University admissions, and only 2,557 were admitted. In 2024, Columbia University acceptance rate dropped to 3.86%, but for 2025, it is increased to 4.29%. Explore the 10-year acceptance rate trend of Columbia University in the table below.

Year Applications Admits Acceptance Rate
2025 59,616 2,557 4.29%
2024 60,248 2,327 3.86%
2023 57,129 2,246 3.93%
2022 60,337 2,253 3.73%
2021 60,551 2,218 3.66%
2020 40,084 2,465 6.15%
2019 42,569 2,190 5.14%
2018 40,203 2,214 5.51%
2017 37,389 2,185 5.84%
2016 36,292 2,193 6.04%

Also Check: US Universities with High Acceptance Rate


Columbia University Admissions Deadlines

Universities generally offer two main intakes for international students requiring an F-1 visa: Fall and Spring. Submitting applications early is recommended for visa processing, scholarships, and course registration.

Intake Application Opens Priority / Early Action Early Action Regular Decision
Fall 2026 Dec 1, 2025 Jan 15, 2026 Mar 1, 2026 May 15, 2026
Spring 2026 Aug 1, 2025 Sep 1, 2025 Oct 1, 2025 Nov 1, 2025

Tip: Early applications give more time for visa approvals, scholarship review, and course selection.

Undergraduate (UG) Admission 2026

Date Event / Deadline
Nov 1, 2025 Early Decision (ED) application deadline
Nov 15, 2025 Early Decision financial aid application deadline
Mid-Dec 2025 Early Decision admission & financial aid results released
Jan 1, 2026 Regular Decision (RD) application deadline
Mid-Jan 2026 Early Decision response deadline for admitted students
Feb 15, 2026 Regular Decision financial aid application deadline
Late Mar 2026 Regular Decision admission & financial aid results released
May 1, 2026 Regular Decision response deadline for admitted students
May 15, 2026 Enrollment deferral request deadline
Late Jun 2026 Final transcript submission deadline for enrolled students

Read More: US University Application Deadlines


Popular Courses at Columbia University

Columbia University’s academic offerings include 65+ graduate and 25+ undergraduate programs. Some of the most popular courses among international students includes:

PG Popular Courses at Columbia University

Course Name Duration Per Semester Tuition Fees in USD Per Semester Tuition Fees in INR Tips for International Students
MS Data Science
(1.8 K Views)
2 Years $64,800 ₹59.42 Lakh • GPA 3.7–3.8 (competitive range)
• GRE 326+ (Quant 166–168)
• Data research or internships preferred
• Freshers considered but highly competitive
• TOEFL 106+
MS Computer Science
(1.7 K Views)
2 Years $64,800 ₹59.42 Lakh • GPA 3.5+
• GRE 320–330
• CS internships or research strengthen profile
• Work experience not required
• TOEFL 100+ / IELTS 7.0+
MBA
(1.0 K Views)
20 Months $91,172 ₹83.60 Lakh GPA 3.2–3.9 (middle 80%)
• GMAT 730+ or GRE equivalent
• 3–7 years work experience (avg. 5)
MS Business Analytics
(898 Views)
1 Year $93,024 ₹85.29 Lakh • GPA ~3.6
• GMAT 700–780 or GRE Quant ~162
• Analytics-related work or internships
• TOEFL 100+
MS Financial Engineering
(700 Views)
1 Year $93,024 ₹85.29 Lakh • GPA ~3.9
• GRE Quant 165–170 (often 169)
• Finance or quant internships preferred
• TOEFL 100+
MPH
(633 Views)
2 Years $50,372 ₹46.19 Lakh • GPA 3.55–3.7
• GRE Quant ~158, Verbal ~158
• Public health work or volunteering (1+ year)
• TOEFL 100+ / IELTS 7.0+
MS Financial Economics
(618 Views)
2 Years $75,256 ₹69.00 Lakh • GPA 3.85–3.9
• GRE 328+ or GMAT equivalent
• ~1 year relevant work experience
• TOEFL 100+
MArch
(583 Views)
3 Years $70,380 ₹64.53 Lakh • GPA 3.5+
• Portfolio 20–30 pages (key factor)
• Architecture internships preferred
• GRE not required
• TOEFL 100+
MS Applied Analytics
(543 Views)
1 Year $82,620 ₹75.75 Lakh • Minimum GPA 3.0 (competitive ~3.8)
• GRE Quant 160+
• Analytics work experience (1–2 years)
• TOEFL 99+
MS Management Science and Engineering
(493 Views)
1 Year $93,024 ₹85.29 Lakh • GPA ~3.7
• GRE Quant 167+, Verbal 155+
• 2+ years engineering/management experience
• TOEFL 99+

UG Popular Courses at Columbia University

Course Name Duration Tuition Fees in USD Tuition Fees in INR
BA Architecture
(295 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 with 95%+ (GPA eq. 4.1+)
• Portfolio 10–20 original design works
• Architecture exposure (internships/competitions)
• TOEFL 105+ / IELTS 7.5+
BS Computer Science
(205 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 95%+ with advanced Math/CS
• Coding projects, hackathons, open-source
• CS internships or research (1–2)
• TOEFL 105+
BA Economics
(203 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 95%+ with strong Math/Economics
• Econ olympiads, research, policy/finance exposure
• TOEFL 105+
B.S Operations Research - Financial Engineering
(123 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 with 96%+ (math-heavy)
• Math/quant competitions or finance projects
• Programming projects (Python/R)
• TOEFL 105+
BA Psychology
(113 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 95%+ with bio/psych focus
• Psych research, labs, or NGO volunteering
• Relevant extracurricular leadership
• TOEFL 105+
B.A English and Comparative Literature
(90 Views)
4 Years $71,710 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 95%+ in English/literature
• Published writing or literary competitions
• Literature-focused clubs or internships
• TOEFL 105+
B.S Mechanical Engineering
(83 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 96%+ in Physics/Math
• Engineering projects, robotics, SAE teams
• Science fairs or physics olympiads
• TOEFL 105+
B.S Computer Engineering
(80 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 96%+ with CS/Electronics
• Hardware-software projects (Arduino/RPi)
• Hackathons or IEEE participation
• TOEFL 105+
B.S Industrial Engineering
(58 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 95%+ with Math/Operations
• Optimization or data analysis projects
• Supply-chain or ops internships• TOEFL 105+
B.S Civil Engineering
(58 Views)
4 Years $71,170 ₹65.26 lakhs • Class 12 with 96%+ in Physics/Math
• Infrastructure or sustainability projects
• Civil design competitions or internships
• TOEFL 105+

Columbia University Graduate Admissions

The graduate programs at Columbia University are available in fields like arts, sciences, business, medicine, public affairs, journalism, professional studies, and engineering. Check out the Columbia University admissions requirements for graduate programs mentioned below:

Columbia University Application Portal: Online

Columbia University Application Fee: 85-150 USD (7,793 - ₹13,753)

Columbia University Admissions Deadline: Varying from December to March

Admission Requirements:

  • Every post-secondary institution transcripts
  • 3-year bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (90%)
  • English Language Proficiency Score
    • TOEFL- 100 [iBT]
    • IELTS- 7.0 7.5
    • DET- 135
  • Test scores:
    • GRE- 168 [Quant] | 162 [Verbal]
    • GMAT- 610-790
  • Personal essay
  • 2-3 letters of recommendation for USA
  • SOP for USA
  • Personal Statement (250-1000 words)
  • CV or Resume

Note: Science, Engineering, and other Academic research work in the related field may provide an abstract in a one or two-page supplement.

Must Read: MS in USA 2025


Columbia University MBA Admissions

The MBA program is offered through Columbia Business School at two Flexible entry points. You can choose the August entry, a 20-month program with a summer internship, or the January entry, a 16-month fast-track program. Both options have the same admissions standards and are tailored to match your career goals and schedule. Check out the admissions requirements below.

Columbia University Application Portal: Online

Columbia University Application Fee: 250 USD (20,809 INR)

Application Deadline: April 1, 2025 (Round 3)

Admission Requirements:

  • 4-year bachelor's degree with a 3.95 GPA (90%)
  • GMAT score between 600-780
  • English language proficiency:
    • TOEFL IBT- 7.0
    • IELTS- 7.0-7.5
    • DET- 135
  • Essays
  • Letters of recommendation for USA
  • Resume or CV
  • Interview
  • Deposit

Explore: Columbia MBA

Columbia University MBA Application Deadlines

Columbia University offers two intakes for its MBA program: January and August. The application timelines are as follows.

January 2026 Entry:

Round Application Deadlines Interview Decision Final Decision
Round 1 June 17, 2025 (Closed) Rolling Ongoing, and no later than August 6, 2025
Round 2 August 13, 2025 (Closed) Rolling Ongoing, and no later than October 8, 2025

August 2026 Entry:

Round Application Deadline Interview Decision Final Decision
Round 1 September 3, 2025 (Closed) By November 13, 2025 By December 15, 2025
Round 2 January 6, 2026 (Closed) By February 19, 2026 By March 31, 2026
Round 3 March 26, 2026 By May 1, 2026 By May 20, 2026

Columbia University MBA Class Profile

Check out the Columbia MBA Class profile 2025.

Parameters Details
Students Applied 7487
Enrolled 972
January Entry Class Size 238, divided into 4 clusters
August Entry Class Size 734, divided into 10 clusters
Average GMAT Score 732
Average GRE Score 162 (Verbal and Quant)
Average Undergraduate GPA 3.6%
Average Work Experience 5 years
Male and Female Students 44% Female and 56% Male
International Students 46%

Columbia University Undergraduate Admissions

International students must meet specific admission requirements to apply to Columbia University, including compliance with U.S. federal laws. The university offers bachelor’s programs in over 80 fields. Below is the application process and requirements for undergraduate programs at Columbia University:

Columbia University Application Portal: Coalition Application, Common Application

Application Fee: 85 USD (7,075 INR)

Admission Requirements:

  • High school academic transcripts
  • Interview
  • English language proficiency:
    • TOEFL-iBT- 105
    • IELTS- 7.5
    • DET- 135
  • Autobiographical information
  • A list of student's activities, achievements, employment, etc
  • Personal essay
  • 2 Letters of recommendation (For Engineering applicants, 1 should be from a science or math teacher)
  • School Profile
  • Completed Mid-year report
  • Statement of Purpose

Columbia Through Student Eyes: According to Reddit and YouTube student reviews, Columbia feels less like a traditional campus and more like surviving an elite academic ecosystem in New York City. Students love the prestige, internships, and global exposure, but openly talk about burnout, mental health strain, and the high financial burden, especially for internationals. 

Columbia University Admissions Decisions Dates

The Office of Admissions reviews applications on a rolling basis and typically provides decisions within 6–8 weeks of the deadline. The School of General Studies starts releasing decisions in March for fall and October for spring. Applications submitted after the deadlines are reviewed individually.

  • Columbia values applicants who convey clear strengths and align with its community ideals, but admission is not guaranteed due to the institution's high selectivity.
  • The university receives more applications than it can accommodate, making the process competitive and comparative.
  • Admissions aim to build a diverse community of interests, ideologies, and identities to foster peer-to-peer and faculty learning opportunities.
  • Each institution has unique selectivity and priorities that may change yearly; focus on aspects you can control.
  • Prioritize effort in your commitments, thoughtful college selection, and genuine self-reflection in your application.
  • Consider applying to Columbia College or Columbia Engineering if you believe you are a strong fit and excited to join the community.

Columbia University Admissions Selection Criteria

Columbia University emphasizes your academic performance, curiosity, engagement with others, individual voice, and knowledge about Columbia. The selection process of Columbia University can be summarized as follows:

  • Best Fit Matters: Columbia seeks students whose interests, skills, and values align with its unique experience, emphasizing mutual growth between the individual and the community.
  • Holistic Review: Every part of your application – personal statement, transcripts, recommendations, and Columbia-specific questions—paints a picture of your academic readiness, curiosity, and community engagement.
  • Context Matters: Applications are evaluated considering your circumstances, resources, and the challenges you've navigated. Effort and initiative in your context are key.
  • Need-Aware for International Students: While financial need is considered, Columbia offers significant aid to international students, covering the full demonstrated need for admitted first-years for four years.
  • Committee-Based Review: Admissions decisions involve multiple officers reviewing each application thoroughly, ensuring fairness and a personalized evaluation.
  • No Quotas: Columbia admits students based on fit, without quotas for schools, regions, or demographics, building a diverse and dynamic community.

Check Out: Columbia University Student Profiles

Currently, Columbia University has 36,649 total students. Out of these, 17% are international students, coming from over 150 countries across the globe. It has one of the most diverse undergraduate communities in the USA. This university has a total of 17 schools and 4 affiliated institutions (Barnard College, The Jewish Theological Seminary, Teachers College, and Union Theological Seminary).

FAQs

Ques: How can I go to Columbia University from India?

Ans: To apply to Columbia, you need a strong academic record, competitive test scores (if submitting), extracurricular achievements, and well-crafted essays. Apply through the Common App or Coalition App, meet English proficiency requirements, and submit all documents by the deadlines.

Ques: What GPA do you need to go to Columbia?

Ans: Columbia doesn’t have a fixed GPA cutoff, but most admitted students have top grades in rigorous courses. Aim for a GPA of 3.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale for a strong chance.

Ques: Is it hard to get into Columbia University?

Ans: Yes, Columbia is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of around 4.29%. A standout application with academic excellence, unique experiences, and a strong fit with Columbia’s values is essential.

Columbia University Program Fees & Deadlines

ProgramImportant DatesFeesApplication FeesEligibilityFinancial Aid
Priority Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
Final Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Feb 2026)
USD 64,800 /Yr85GPA: 3.5, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135
Priority Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
Final Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Feb 2026)
USD 64,800 /Yr85GPA: 3.5, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135
MBA
20 months
Round 2 Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake (6th Jan 2026)
Round 2 Interview Decisions Date For August 2026 Intake (19th Feb 2026)
Round 3 Application Deadline For August 2026 Intake (26th Mar 2026)
Round 2 Final Decisions Date For August 2026 Intake (31st Mar 2026)
Round 3 Interview Decisions Date For August 2026 Intake (1st May 2026)
Round 3 Final Decisions Date For August 2026 Intake (20th May 2026)
USD 91,172 /Yr250GPA: 3.6, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135, GMAT: 732, GRE: 324
Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
Final Application Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake (15th Feb 2026)
USD 97,200 /Yr85GPA: 3.5, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135
Final Application Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
USD 97,200 /Yr85GPA: 3.5, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135
MPH
2 years
Application Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
USD 50,372 /Yr135GPA 3.5, TOEFL-100, IELTS-7.5 Duolingo-135
Application Submission Deadline for Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
USD 75,256 /Yr100GPA: 3.9, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, PTE: 68, GRE: 330
MArch
3 years
Application Deadline For 2026 intake (3rd Jan 2026)
USD 70,380 /Yr75GPA 3.5, TOEFL-100, IELTS-7.5
Priority Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Feb 2026)
Final Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Mar 2026)
Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake (1st Oct 2026)
USD 85,560 /Yr150GPA: 3.0, IELTS: 7.0, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135
Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2026 intake (15th Jan 2026)
Final Application Deadline for Fall 2026 intake (15th Feb 2026)
USD 97,200 /Yr85GPA: 3.5, IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL: 100, Duolingo: 135

Do you think the Dates are wrong ?  Report Here

Important Alerts

EventsDates
Master of Business Administration [MBA] Round 2 Interview Decisions Date For August 2026 Intake
Closing in 2 days

Reviews


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22 Reviews Found

DK
7.0 /10

Scholarship

  • There are a few scholarships available for international students. None of them are course-specific; I would not rely on them, as they are very competitive and mostly partial.
  • I would recommend getting in touch with the finance department for assistance, as they keep these records up to date and guide on the application process. All scholarships that I am aware of are merit based.

academic: 8/10
faculty: 8/10
infrastructure: 8/10
accomodation: 6/10
placement: 6/10
extracurricular: 6/10

TJ
9.0 /10

Scholarship

  • I did not receive any scholarship during my time. I did not apply for any scholarships or do any research during my process; I was occupied with visa requirements and moving prospects, hence I was unable to do so.
  • I think that if students do start the process early and look into the application requiremnts they have to write an essay to justify their need for the scholarship however they are few and even fewer people get scholarships.

academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 10/10
placement: 4/10
extracurricular: 10/10

AA
9.3 /10

Scholarship

  • No, Columbia does not provide any scholarships nor have I heard any of my batchmates get it.
     

academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 8/10
extracurricular: 10/10

SV
6.2 /10
academic: 8/10
faculty: 8/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 5/10
placement: 6/10

K
4.2 /10
academic: 8/10
faculty: 6/10
infrastructure: 3/10
accomodation: 6/10
placement: 2/10

UP
4.0 /10
academic: 4/10
faculty: 4/10
infrastructure: 4/10
accomodation: 4/10
placement: 4/10
extracurricular: 4/10

SJ
6.8 /10

Overview

The admission process is based on the application submission first, students submit their application through the common app or coalition app, typically by the January 1st deadline for regular decision. I prepared for the admission, maintaining a high GPA, especially in challenging courses like AP or IB and taking the SAT or ACT. Consultants are Crimson Education.

academic: 8/10
faculty: 8/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 8/10
extracurricular: 9/10

Scholarship

Yes, I received one from the university itself based on merit for $8000. There was a special application for the scholarship where I had to write an essay on why I think I deserve it .

academic: 9/10
faculty: 8/10
infrastructure: 8/10
accomodation: 5/10
placement: 7/10

Overview

Overall, Columbia University was a fantastic experience. Its located in a vibrant city, with opportunities to stick to a campus life, and still enjoy everything NYC has to offer. The students are helpful and collaborative. The professors are incredibly well experienced with several accolades. All in all, had a great learning experience.

academic: 8/10
faculty: 9/10
infrastructure: 8/10
accomodation: 6/10
placement: 8/10

VB
7.5 /10

Overview

Very good infrastructure, renowned professors and a smart cohort, in a gist.

academic: 9/10
faculty: 9/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 9/10

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