Columbia University
New York's Global Ivy: Innovating for a Better World.
📍 New York, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #13 in United States · QS World #34 · THE World #18
Quick Facts about Columbia University
- Type: Private
- Students: 36,649
- International: 39%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $48,692 – $70,168/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
- Intakes: September
About Columbia University
Academics
Columbia University is distinguished by its Core Curriculum, a comprehensive liberal arts education required for all undergraduates, emphasizing literature, philosophy, history, and the arts. The university comprises twenty schools, including three undergraduate and sixteen graduate schools, with notable programs in Journalism, Engineering, International Relations, Arts, Business, and Economics. This multidisciplinary approach fosters critical thinking and a deep appreciation for intellectual diversity, with students engaging in cutting-edge research across various fields from biomedical sciences to artificial intelligence.
International Students
Columbia is home to a highly diverse student body, with international students making up a significant portion of its enrollment. In 2023, the university reported over 20,000 international students, with a substantial representation from China, India, and South Korea. The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) provides extensive support services, including assistance with I-20 applications, student visas, employment authorization, and tax forms. Various student organizations, such as the Society of International Undergraduates, actively promote cultural integration and host events to celebrate the diverse interests of their members.
Campus & Location
Located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, Columbia's campus offers an urban yet contained environment. The campus features a mix of Gothic-inspired and modern buildings, green spaces, and iconic landmarks like the Low Library and the Alma Mater statue. Students have easy access to New York City's vibrant life, including restaurants, museums, and cultural venues, just steps off campus. The university provides a free shuttle bus service connecting its various campuses and nearby transit hubs, and the 1 train subway station is conveniently located at 116th Street-Columbia University.
Career Outcomes
Columbia University boasts strong industry connections, facilitating numerous opportunities for internships and full-time positions with top companies. The Center for Career Education (CCE) offers comprehensive career services, including on-campus recruiting events, career fairs, and an online database called LionSHARE for job and internship applications. Notable employers that have recently hired Columbia graduates include Amazon, Google, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Company, and the United Nations. The university also fosters a vibrant startup culture, with initiatives like the Columbia Venture Competition and various resources supporting student and alumni entrepreneurial endeavors.
Information for International Students at Columbia University
Columbia University in New York, United States welcomes international students, with 39% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 39% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Columbia University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Columbia University:
- IELTS minimum: 7.5
- TOEFL minimum: 100
- Duolingo minimum: 135
- Application fee: $85
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: January 1
Scholarships & Tuition at Columbia University
Annual tuition for international students: $48,692 – $70,168/year
✅ Columbia University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Columbia University
- National Ranking: #13 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #34
- Times Higher Education (THE): #18
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Columbia University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
- Average class size: 20
Key Highlights
- Oldest NYC institution
- Renowned Ivy League academics
- Core Curriculum excellence
- Diverse global student body
- Manhattan urban campus
- Cutting-edge research hub
Accreditation
- MSCHE
Notable Alumni
- Barack Obama
- Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Theodore Roosevelt Jr.
- Warren Buffett
- Isaac Asimov
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia University
What is Columbia University?
Columbia University is a private university located in New York, United States. It has approximately 36,649 students, with 39% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Columbia University?
Tuition fees at Columbia University for international students range from $48,692 – $70,168/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Columbia University?
IELTS minimum: 7.5. TOEFL minimum: 100. Duolingo minimum: 135. Application fee: $85. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: January 1.
What language are courses taught in at Columbia University?
Courses at Columbia University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 7.5.
What is Columbia University ranked?
#13 in United States · QS World #34 · THE World #18.
Does Columbia University offer scholarships?
Yes, Columbia University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Columbia University provide visa support?
Yes, Columbia University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
Apply to Columbia University with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Columbia University. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.