United States · Private Ivy League research university
Columbia University
New York City, New York · Founded 1754
QS World #34
THE #18
Official site
Acceptance rate
3.9%
Total students
36,649
International
~35% across all programs
Annual tuition
USD 68,400 / year (2025-26, Columbia College)
The Ivy in Manhattan. Columbia's location gives students unmatched access to Wall Street, the UN, and the world's biggest media companies. The Core Curriculum — ancient texts read by every undergraduate — is a defining experience.
Admissions requirements
- Language
- TOEFL iBT 100+ for most graduate programs; Journalism School 114+
- Tests
- SAT/ACT required from 2025-26.
- Deadlines
-
- Early Decision: November 1
- Regular Decision: January 1
- Financial aid
- Need-blind for US applicants; need-aware for internationals but full need is met for admitted students.
Famous for
Journalism
Law
Business
International Affairs (SIPA)
Engineering (SEAS)
Notable alumni
- Barack Obama (College)
- Warren Buffett (MBA)
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Cost estimate
$95,400 / year
Tuition $68,400 + living $27,000
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