Columbia University in the City of New York

At a glance

Admission rate

4%

Total (middle 50%)

1510–1580

Undergraduates

8,973

Setting

City: Large

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Test policy

Test optional Applicants may choose whether to send a score.

Columbia College and Columbia Engineering are test-optional for the 2026-2027 admissions cycle (Fall 2027 entry); a testing requirement returns effective August 2027 for the 2027-2028 cycle (Fall 2028 entry), with waivers available on request. Exam results required for school graduation (e.g. A Levels, IB, national exams) must be submitted. (Verified on the official admissions website on 2026-11-06.)

Policy source: undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu

SAT scores

Total (middle 50%)

1510–1580

Reading and Writing

740–780

Math

770–800

Average total

1553

ACT composite (middle 50%)

34–35

The middle 50%: a quarter of admitted students who sent scores scored below the first number, a quarter above the second. The total adds up the two sections' ranges, so it's approximate.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Admissions

Accepts

Common App, Coalition with Scoir, QuestBridge$85 nonrefundable fee or fee waiver. QuestBridge listed as an official Columbia application route.

Application fee

$85

Phone

(212) 854-1754

Source: School's page (undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu), checked November 6, 2026

Cost

Tuition

$74,180per year

Average net price

$15,370What students who get federal aid pay on average after grants and scholarships, per year.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Outcomes

Graduation rate

95%

First-year retention

98%

Median earnings 10 years after entry

$109,430

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Institution-Level Data

Degrees and programs

Degree levels: bachelor, post-baccalaureate certificate, master, doctoral, first professional, graduate certificate

Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard - Most Recent Data by Field of Study