Columbia University
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, United States
20321 International Students

QS Rank
23
Languages
English
Acceptance rate
4
Dorm on Campus
Available
Mode of Degree
offline
About the University
Columbia University is a famous Ivy League school known for its great teaching and research was established in 1754. It's often ranked among the top 25 universities worldwide. With more than 19,000 students from different countries, it's a diverse and exciting place to study. But getting in isn't easy – Columbia is super selective, with only about 4% of applicants accepted. If you're an international student, you'll need a decent GPA, around 3.0 or higher, to even be considered. But most students who get in have even higher grades, around 3.6 on average. Plus, studying at Columbia doesn't come cheap. The yearly tuition fees are pretty high, around 55 lakhs INR, because it's an Ivy League school with top-notch education and facilities.
Columbia University Key Highlights
Columbia University stands as a renowned institution known for its academic excellence, prime location, diverse student body, and esteemed faculty. Check out the Columbia University Key Highlights below:-
Aspect |
Columbia University |
Establishment |
1754 |
Type |
Private Ivy League Research University |
Location |
New York City, New York, USA |
Accreditation |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Ranking (QS) |
Top 25 globally |
Application Fee |
$85 for undergraduate programs and $85–$250 for graduate programs. |
Number of Students |
Approximately 31,000 |
International Students |
Over 19,000 |
Acceptance Rate |
Approximately 4% |
Accepted Exam |
SAT or ACT, GRE or GMAT for graduate programs |
Campus Placements |
|
Scholarships |
|
Employment Rate |
95% |
Male-Female Ratio |
46% women and 54% men |
Student-Faculty Ratio |
6:1 |
Official Website |
https://www.columbia.edu/ |
Columbia University Ranking
Columbia University consistently ranks among the world's top universities, recognized for its academic excellence and research impact. Check out the Columbia University Ranking below:-
Ranking Agency |
Ranking 2024 |
QS World University Rankings |
#23 |
Best Global Universities US News |
#7 |
World University Rankings THE |
#17 |
National Universities US News |
#12 |
Columbia University Scholarships
At Columbia University, financial aid and scholarships are primarily determined by financial need rather than academic excellence, athletic prowess, or other talents. International students at Columbia University have their demonstrated financial needs fully covered, with an average financial aid package totalling approximately $79,375 (65 lakhs INR).
While scholarships based on academic achievements, sports skills, or talents are not offered, international students have access to various popular scholarships to study in the USA, including:
Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount Award (in INR) |
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships |
Bachelor’s program: Minimum 55% average; Work experience: 3+ years; Community service background |
Tuition fees; partial living expenses; Healthcare expenses |
MBA Scholarship |
Open to MBA students |
10,000 to 30,000 USD |
Debesh-Kamal Scholarship for Higher Studies |
Age: Below 30; Field: Preferably social science or related disciplines |
1 lakh for 1 year |
Columbia University Courses
At Columbia University, there are lots of different classes you can take. Whether you're interested in business, art, science, or engineering, Columbia has something for you. They offer over 100 programs for both undergraduates and graduates in more than 80 subjects. Check out the Columbia University Courses below:-
Note:-The fee structure mentioned below is subject to change in accordance with the university's policies. The university reserves the right to modify the fees at any time without prior notice
Courses |
1st Year Tuition Fees |
Duration & Eligibility |
MBA/PGDM |
INR 44 L - 76 L |
Duration: 9 months to 2 years. Eligibility requires TOEFL scores ranging from 99 to 114, IELTS scores of 7 and above, or acceptable GRE, PTE, Duolingo, or GMAT scores. |
M.A. |
INR 20 L - 72 L |
Duration: 9 months to 5 years. Eligibility includes TOEFL scores of 100 to 114, GRE scores, IELTS scores ranging from 7 to 7.5, or GMAT scores for admission. |
MS |
INR 27 L - 76 L |
Duration: 9 months to 3 years. Eligibility criteria comprise TOEFL scores ranging from 99 to 114, GRE scores, IELTS scores ranging from 6.5 to 7, or acceptable PTE, Duolingo, or GMAT scores. |
MIM |
INR 44 L - 76 L |
Duration: 9 months to 2 years. TOEFL scores required are 99 to 114, IELTS scores of 7 and above, or acceptable GRE, PTE, Duolingo, or GMAT scores. |
B.A. |
INR 50 L - 52 L |
Duration: 4 to 5 years. Eligibility necessitates IELTS scores of 7 to 7.5, TOEFL scores ranging from 100 to 105, or Duolingo scores of 135 and above. |
B.Sc. |
INR 50 L - 52 L |
Duration: 4 years. Eligibility includes IELTS scores of 7 to 7.5, TOEFL scores of 105 and above, or Duolingo scores of 135 and above. |
Others PG |
INR 27 L - 88 L |
Duration: 9 months to 2 years. Eligibility requires TOEFL scores ranging from 100 to 114, GRE scores, or GMAT scores. |
B.E. / B.Tech |
INR 50 L - 52 L |
Duration: 4 years. Eligibility necessitates IELTS scores of 7 to 7.5, TOEFL scores ranging from 100 to 105, or Duolingo scores of 135 and above. |
BBA |
INR 50 L - 52 L |
Duration: 4 years. Eligibility comprises IELTS scores of 7 to 7.5, TOEFL scores of 105 and above, or Duolingo scores of 135 and above. |
B.J.M.C. |
INR 50 L |
Duration: 4 years. Eligibility necessitates IELTS scores of 7 and above. |
MPA |
INR 51 L |
Duration: 1 to 4 years. Eligibility requires TOEFL scores of 100 and above. |
MFA |
INR 54 L |
Duration: 2 years. Eligibility necessitates IELTS scores of 7.5 and above. |
M.Arch |
INR 51 L - 81 L |
Duration: 1 to 4 years. Eligibility includes TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. |
LL.M. |
INR 60 L - 64 L |
Duration: 6 months to 1 year. Eligibility necessitates TOEFL scores of 105 and above. |
B.Arch |
INR 50 L - 52 L |
Duration: 4 years. Eligibility comprises IELTS scores of 7 to 7.5, TOEFL scores of 105 and above, or Duolingo scores of 135 and above. |
Executive MBA/PGDM |
INR 1 Cr |
Duration: 20 months. Eligibility includes GMAT or GRE scores. |
Ph.D. |
INR 35 L |
Duration: 5 years. Eligibility requires GRE, IELTS, TOE |
Columbia University Campus
-
Columbia University's campus sprawls across 36 acres in Manhattan, positioning it as one of the largest and most scenic campuses in New York City.
-
Situated in the heart of Manhattan, Columbia's location offers students unparalleled access to a myriad of internship opportunities and professional experiences in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
-
Columbia University boasts a comprehensive selection of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, spanning more than 80 areas of study to cater to diverse academic interests.
-
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship from esteemed faculty members.
-
Among the most enrolled postgraduate programs at Columbia University are those offered by the Fu Foundation of Engineering & Applied Science, attracting 3,367 international students, and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, with 2,772 international students.
Columbia University Cost of Attendance
Thinking about attending Columbia University? Well, there's something important you should know: it's going to cost you. According to the Columbia Chronicle, the prices for tuition fees and housing are going up by 2% again this fall. This makes the overall cost of going to Columbia pretty high, reaching up to $70,000 (58 lakhs INR) a year for some programs. Let's break down what you'll need to pay for if you decide to study at Columbia this year.
Expense Category |
Amount (USD) |
Amount (INR) |
UG |
||
Tuition and Fees |
$68,400 |
56 lakhs |
Housing and Food |
$16,800 |
13 lakhs |
Books and Personal |
$3,742 |
3 lakhs |
PG |
||
Tuition and Fees |
$65,000 |
53 lakhs |
Housing and Food |
$25,560 |
21 lakhs |
Books and Personal |
$9,111 |
7 lakhs |
Columbia University Major Intakes
-
Columbia University offers three intake periods: fall, spring, and summer, providing flexibility for prospective students.
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For fall 2024 admission, the application deadlines are as follows:
-
Priority Early Action: January 15, 2025
-
Early Action: March 1, 2025
-
Regular Decision: May 15, 2024
-
These deadlines allow applicants to choose the most suitable timeline for their application process, whether they prefer to apply early or during the regular admission period.
Columbia University Notable Alumni
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Barack Obama: Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, served from 2009 to 2017. As the first African-American president, he made history with his tenure marked by significant legislative achievements and a focus on healthcare reform.
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Franklin Delano Roosevelt: Franklin Delano Roosevelt, or FDR, was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. Known for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, his New Deal policies reshaped the American government and society.
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Jake Gyllenhaal: Jake Gyllenhaal is a versatile American actor known for his compelling performances in stage productions, television shows, and films. His breakout roles in movies like "October Sky" and "Brokeback Mountain" established him as a respected figure in Hollywood.
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Timothée Chalamet: Timothée Chalamet is an American-French actor acclaimed for his talent and versatility on stage and screen. Rising to prominence with roles in critically acclaimed films like "Call Me by Your Name" and "Little Women," he has garnered numerous award nominations.
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Alexander Hamilton: Alexander Hamilton, a Founding Father of the United States, was a key figure in shaping early American politics and policies. Serving as the first Secretary of the Treasury, his contributions include the establishment of the nation's financial system and the promotion of a strong central government.
Columbia University Placements
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Columbia University offers exceptional placement counselling services, considered among the best in the industry.
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A remarkable 95% of Columbia University graduates secure employment immediately upon graduation, reflecting the university's strong ties with employers.
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The average salary earned through placements at Columbia University is approximately $170,000 (around 1.4 crore INR), underscoring the lucrative opportunities available to its graduates.
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The average salaries based on the level of degree attained are as follows:
-
Bachelor's degree: $500,000 (approximately 4 crore INR)
-
Other degrees: $280,000 (approximately 2 crore INR)
-
Doctorate: $200,000 (approximately 1.6 crore INR)
-
Executive MBA: $175,000 (approximately 1.4 crore INR)
-
MBA: $150,000 (approximately 1.24 crore INR)
-
Executive Masters: $147,000 (approximately 1.21 crore INR)
Requirements for Study
Undergraduate Admissions:
- High School Diploma: Completion of a high school education.
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores (note that some adjustments have been made due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and some test-optional policies might be in place).
- Transcripts: High school transcripts showing a strong academic record.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from teachers or counselors.
- Personal Essay: An essay that reflects the student's personality, experiences, and interests.
- Supplementary Materials: Additional materials might be required for specific programs (e.g., art portfolios, writing samples).
Graduate Admissions:
- Bachelor's Degree: An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
- GRE/GMAT Scores: Standardized test scores, though some programs may waive this requirement.
- Transcripts: Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically, three letters from academic or professional references.
- Personal Statement: A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and career goals.
- Resume/CV: An updated resume or curriculum vitae.
- Additional Requirements: Some programs may require interviews, portfolios, or specific prerequisites.