What SAT score range is competitive for Columbia?

I've been grinding on Khan Academy and improved my SAT scores quite a bit. Can anyone share the stats for an SAT score that's considered competitive for Columbia University admission? I understand holistic review and all, but I'd feel a lot better knowing my test scores are within shooting distance.

Columbia University is known for having highly competitive admissions, with admitted students often having SAT scores in the top percentile. For the most recent class, the middle 50% SAT score range at Columbia was between 1500 and 1560. This means that 25% of admitted students scored below 1500 and 25% scored above 1560.

It's important to remember, though, that being within this range does not guarantee admission, and being below this range doesn't rule out a chance of getting accepted. That's because even though high test scores and GPA are vital, Columbia takes a holistic approach to admissions and considers other factors, such as your extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

If you're committed to applying and your score doesn't quite hit the range, it may still be worth applying if you can demonstrate exceptional strength in other areas. On the other hand, if your score comfortably falls within or above that range, that's a good start—but it's just one piece of the puzzle. Your application will still need to be competitive in other areas too.

Remember also that Columbia has not made standardized test scores optional, as some colleges have in recent application cycles. As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, Columbia still requires all applicants to submit an SAT or ACT score, so it's crucial to put your best foot forward with your test results. Keep up the good work with your studying! High scores can only help your application.