Columbia University Fees and Programs 2025-26

Columbia University fees for the 2023 academic year stand at approximately $81,000 USD, which includes about $61,000 for tuition and $20,000 for living expenses. For Indian students, this equates to roughly ₹66.6 lakhs, based on an exchange rate of 1 USD = ₹82.24. This cost reflects the premium nature of an Ivy League education in one of the world’s most dynamic cities—New York.

Columbia University, officially known as Columbia University in the City of New York, is one of the oldest and most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Established in 1754 as King’s College, it is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the nation. A proud member of the Ivy League, Columbia consistently ranks among the world’s top universities.

The university offers world-class programs across various disciplines. Its MBA program ranks #2 globally (FT), and Financial Economics stands at #4 (US News). Other strong postgraduate programs include Marketing Science and Mathematics of Finance, both in the top 10.

At the undergraduate level, Columbia excels in Psychology, Biochemistry, Biology, and several Economics tracks—all within the top 10-15 rankings in the U.S., according to US News. The institution also ranks high in environmental sciences and computer science.

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Know in detail about Columbia University’s popular programs

Columbia University Acceptance Rate

Columbia University is renowned for its selectivity. For the Class of 2028, the overall acceptance rate was 3.85%, with 60,248 applicants and 2,319 admitted students . This slight decrease from the previous year’s rate of 3.93% reflects the university’s continued position as one of the most competitive institutions globally.

Columbia University Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Scores ranging from 30 to 45.
- A-Levels: Minimum of 3 A-Levels, with grades ranging from A B B to AAA.
- US High School Diploma: Minimum GPA of 3.0; Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses are highly recommended .
English Proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 90.
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
- Cambridge Certificate: Grade A, B, or C.
- ACT English: Minimum score of 24 .

Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: From a recognized institution.
- Professional Experience: Typically, a minimum of 3 years is required for MBA programs.
- GMAT/GRE Scores: Competitive scores are recommended; most applicants have scores ranging from 650 to 770 .
English Proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 90.
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
- Cambridge Certificate: Grade A, B, or C.
- ACT English: Minimum score of 24 .

Columbia University Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Programs

Online Application: Complete the application form on the Columbia University online portal.
Standardized Test Scores:
- SAT: Minimum score of 1200; middle 50% range is 1270–1460.
- ACT: Minimum score of 24.
- LNAT: Minimum score of 22 (only for Law School programs).
- OMPT-B or OMPT-D: Specifically for programs within the School of Science and Technology.
English Proficiency: Submit scores from recognized English language tests.
Additional Documents:
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from teachers or counselors.
- Extracurricular Activities: Highlight leadership and meaningful contributions.
- Personal Statement/Essay: Demonstrate personal growth and future aspirations.
Application Fee: €120 or fee waiver available .

Postgraduate Programs

Online Application: Complete the application form on the Columbia University online portal.
Academic Transcripts: Provide transcripts from previous institutions.
Standardized Test Scores:
- GMAT/GRE: Competitive scores are recommended; most applicants have scores ranging from 650 to 770.
English Proficiency: Submit scores from recognized English language tests.
Professional Experience: Typically, a minimum of 3 years is required for MBA programs.
Additional Documents:
- Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from professional contacts.
- Statement of Purpose: Outline career goals and reasons for choosing the program.
Application Fee: €120 or fee waiver available

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