Columbia University is one of my dream schools, and I know it's super competitive. What kind of GPA should I aim for if I want to have a shot at getting in?
Columbia University is indeed highly selective, and having a strong GPA can significantly improve your chances of admission. While there's no official minimum GPA requirement, the majority of accepted students have a GPA that falls within the top range of their class.
While Columbia does not publically release information regarding the GPA of admitted students, 95.7% of students who were admitted are in the top tenth of their high school graduating class. To be a competitive applicant to Columbia you will likely need an unweighted GPA of 3.95+ and a rigorous course load full of advanced (i.e. AP, IB HL) courses.
It's important to note that Columbia, like most elite institutions, practices a holistic application review process. This means that they don't solely focus on GPA, but rather evaluate various factors, including coursework rigor, standardized test scores (if submitted), extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Aiming for a high GPA is crucial, but also ensure you balance your academic excellence with well-rounded experiences and a strong application as a whole.
In summary, strive for a GPA as close to 4.0 (unweighted) as possible, challenging yourself with demanding courses while maintaining high grades. Keep in mind that while having a high GPA is essential, it's just one aspect of your application, so make sure to develop your other areas as well. Good luck!
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