I’ve heard Columbia has a really competitive applicant pool, and I’m trying to understand what stands out in their admissions process. What are the average stats (GPA, test scores, etc.) and extracurricular activities of students who get accepted into Columbia University?
Columbia University indeed has a competitive applicant pool. The average unweighted GPA of admitted students tends to hover around 3.9 or above. For standardized tests, successful applicants frequently have SAT scores above 1450 or ACT scores above 33. However, due to the test-optional policy now in effect at many universities, including Columbia, high test scores are not the sole indicator of an applicant’s potential for success.
In terms of extracurriculars (ECs), there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. Columbia tends to seek students who are leaders and innovators. These students often have a few standout ECs to which they've shown significant dedication and in which they've achieved notable accomplishments or leadership positions. For example, someone might be the founder of a nonprofit organization, a winner of a national science competition, or the captain of a sports team.
The key is depth and impact in a few areas rather than breadth across many. Tailoring your ECs to reflect genuine interests and meaningful engagement is what can help your application shine for Columbia.
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