What are the requirements for getting into Columbia?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I'm really interested in applying to Columbia next year. I was wondering if anyone has any info on the requirements for admission, like GPA, test scores, and any specific course requirements?

Hello! I'm glad to hear you're interested in applying to Columbia University. Here's some information on the general requirements for admission:

1. GPA: Columbia doesn't specify a minimum GPA, and, like most highly selective schools, doesn't officially release an average GPA for accepted students. However, since Columbia is one of the most selective schools in the country, you can safely assume most admitted students have a GPA that's very close to 4.0 unweighted. Columbia does note that over 95% of accepted students were in the top 10% of their high school class, to give you one concrete metric to aim for.

2. Test Scores: Columbia is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, which means you do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, if you choose to submit scores, the middle 50% score ranges for admitted students are approximately:

- SAT: 1510-1560

- ACT: 34-35

Keep in mind that, at a school as selective as Columbia, you generally want to showcase your strengths in as many ways as possible. So, submitting a test score would likely still be a good idea, even though it's not required. For more detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

3. Course Requirements: Columbia recommends a strong high school curriculum that includes:

- 4 years of English

- 4 years of mathematics (preferably including calculus)

- 4 years of one foreign language

- 3-4 years of science (preferably including laboratory experience)

- 3-4 years of social studies

4. Extracurriculars: Columbia values applicants with a strong commitment to their extracurricular activities, as well as demonstrated leadership and community involvement. There isn't a specific number of activities you should have, but focus on depth and genuine interest in the activities you choose.

5. Essays and Recommendations: You will need to submit the Common Application or Coalition Application, including Columbia's supplemental essays. These essays provide an opportunity to showcase your interests, strengths, and fit with the university. Additionally, you will need to submit two letters of recommendation from teachers and one from your high school counselor. For guidance on how to tackle Columbia's school-specific supplemental essays, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-columbia-university-essays

6. Application Deadlines: You can apply either through Early Decision (deadline: November 1) or Regular Decision (deadline: around January 1). While the acceptance rate is usually higher during Early Decision, if you are accepted you must attend Columbia, so you want to be 100% confident the school is right for you.

Make sure to research and learn more about Columbia, to get a better understanding of the academic offerings, campus culture, and resources available at the school. That information will help you determine where Columbia ranks on your college list, and can also help you craft essays that are more specific to the school, which will in turn make you a more attractive candidate for admission.

Best of luck in the application process!