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Columbia University: Rankings, Fees, Programs, History & Facts, Placements
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Last updated on 22 Oct '24, by Anushree Sinha (Study Abroad Expert)Columbia UniversityWhat’s new?
For the University of Columbia admissions, students must apply within the application deadlines listed below:
- Columbia University admissions are taken on a rolling basis and are done in three intakes; Fall, Spring, and Summer.
- Columbia University application deadline for undergraduate program for international students is Jan 1, 2025.
- Financial Times MBA Ranking 2024 has been updated and the Columbia Business School has a ranking of #3 globally.
- About Columbia University
- Columbia University Programs
- Columbia University Scholarships 2024
- Columbia University Admissions 2024
- Columbia University Fees
- Columbia University Student Reviews
- Columbia University Placements
- Columbia University Rankings 2025
- Columbia Vs Stanford Vs Harvard: Which is better?
- Study in USA
- Columbia University Notable Alumni
- Columbia University Campus Life
- Columbia University Faculty
- Columbia University FAQs
About Columbia University
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university in Upper Manhattan, New York City. For a decade now, the Columbia University ranking has been consistent among the top 25 global universities. Apart from the university rankings, the Columbia University Business School has a ranking of #3 based on the Financial Times MBA Rankings 2024.
According to the Shiksha grading, the overall ranking of the university is A++. A few Columbia majors, namely Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Business Economics have obtained the rank A in subject rankings. An array of world-class programs are offered by the university through its three undergraduate,and thirteen graduate and professional schools, a world-renowned medical center, four affiliated colleges and seminaries, twenty-five libraries, and more than hundred research centers and institutes.
Things to Know about Columbia University
A few of the Things to Know for Columbia University are given below:
|
Particulars |
Statistics |
|---|---|
|
Admission Rarity |
Around 3.85% |
|
Best Known For |
World-class academic excellence | High-quality research | Top-notch academic programs in leading fields | World-renowned faculty |
|
Columbia Ranking |
A++ (Source: Shiksha Grading) |
|
GPA Requirement |
3.7 - 4.0 (on a 4.0 scale) |
|
Columbia Top 5 Majors |
Economics, Computer Science, Political Science & Government, Psychology, Finance |
|
Duration of Columbia Courses |
UG: 4 - 5 years PG: 9 months - 3 years |
Columbia University History
Established by a royal charter issued by Great Britain’s King George II in 1754, Columbia University was founded as a King's College for males. Samuel Johnson was the first president of the King's College and also delivered the first ever class of the university. In 1767, the first medical school of Columbia University came into existence under the leadership of Samuel Bard. In 1776, instruction was suspended in the university due to the American Revolutionary War, till 1783. In 1784, the Columbia University was re-named from King's College to its current name. In 1857, the university moved from Park Place in lower Manhattan to 49th Street and Madison Avenue, in midtown Manhattan, where it remained for the next 50 years. In 1858, the Columbia Law School was founded. In 1867, the university began participating in intercollegiate sports and a baseball team was established. In 1877, Columbia Daily spectator (the student newspaper) started its publication journey. In 1880, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences was established. In 1889, Barnard College for Women came into existence. In 1892, the Columbia School of Nursing was opened. In 1916, the Columbia Business School became operational. In 1983, Columbia University started admitting women students. In 2003, the university celebrated its 250th anniversary.
Columbia University Student Enrollment
Columbia is a culturally rich institution, which promotes diversity and inclusion. As per the Columbia University reviews, it is an ideal place for international students to study in. In Fall 2023, Columbia University enrolled 35,872 students, who represent more than 160 nations around the globe. Students all over the world seek admission in Columbia University, which include Asians, Africans, Latino, Alaska Natives, and many more.
|
Particulars |
Headcount |
|---|---|
|
Total Students |
35,872 |
|
Undergraduate Students |
9,704 |
|
Graduate Students |
26,127 |
|
Indian Students |
2,357 (1,303 enrolled + 1,054 in post-graduation OPT) |
China, India, Canada, South Korea, France are the top 5 contributors to the international student population of Columbia University. Given below is the detailed list of country-specific enrollment:
| Country | Headcount of Students (Enrolled + OPT) |
|---|---|
| China | 9,961 |
| India | 2,357 |
| Canada | 751 |
| South Korea | 689 |
| France | 460 |
For the Class of 2027, Columbia received over 57,000 applications. However, only about 2,200 candidates got enrolled in the university for their higher education. Hence, it can be concluded that with the Columbia University acceptance rate of merely 3.9%, the university is extremely competitive to get into.
Given below is the trend of the Columbia acceptance rate in the recent years:
Columbia University placement rate stands at 95%, which indicates that 95 out of every 100 graduates get employed within 3 months of graduation. Based on data researched from the web, the graduate students of Columbia are working in companies, such as Google, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Citi, Meta, etc. Some of the top industries where the students are working are Business, Development, Education, Research, Engineering, Finance, etc.
Check out the below videos of Columbia University for more information:
Others
58%
Asian
18%
Hispanic
15%
Black
7%
Out of state
63%
In state
19%
Foreign
16%
UG Number of Applicant
Overall Graduation Rate
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: What are the requirements to get into Columbia University?
Students with less than twenty-four post-high school earned college credits are considered freshmen applicants. International students must complete the admission procedure and meet the requirements to get into Columbia College of Columbia University for undergraduate study:
Cumulative high school GPA on a 4.0 scale
21 ACT or 1060 SAT score or rank in the top half of their graduating class
Q: What is the fees of Columbia University in rupees?
Columbia University is a private Ivy League university. Columbia University fees for Indian students depends on the type of courses and level of study. Listed below is the estimated tuition cost in rupees for some popular Columbia University courses:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (56 courses) | INR 27 L - 76 L |
M.A. (140 courses) | INR 20 L - 73 L |
MBA/PGDM (19 courses) | INR 44 L - 76 L |
MIM (18 courses) | INR 44 L - 76 L |
B.A. (56 courses) | INR 50 L - 52 L |
B.Sc. (20 courses) | INR 50 L - 52 L |
B.E. / B.Tech (14 courses) | INR 50 L - 52 L |
Others PG (28 courses) | INR 27 L - 88 L |
MPH (7 courses) | INR 23 L - 52 L |
M.Arch (6 courses) | INR 51 L - 81 L |
Q: Has any Indian graduated from Columbia University?
Yes, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar and Sara Ali Khan are two popular Indian alumni members of the Columbia University.
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was an Indian Jurist, Economist, Social Reformer and Political Leader. He was the head of the committee drafting the Constitution of India from the Constituent Assembly debates. He also served as Law and Justice minister in the first cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru, and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement after renouncing Hinduism.
Sara Ali Khan Pataudi is an Indian actress who works in Bollywood movies. She pursued a degree in History and Political Science at the Columbia University.
Q: What is it like to attend Columbia University?
Columbia University is one of the best universities in USA and students across the world desire to study here. Attending the university is an experience worth cherishing as per the Columbia University reviews. It is a very competitive school full of extremely intelligent, driven and ambitious students. Studying here makes students come out of their comfort zone and push themselves beyond their limit. Students are exposed to a wide range of concepts, ideas, people, and cultures and this alters their perspective on certain issues. Also, people get to make a lot of global friends. When it comes to academics, Columbia offers a very unique and world-class curriculum for their audience. Additionally, the University of Columbia is extremely beautiful and students get to participate in a variety of activities outside class, such as joining clubs, events and more.
Q: What is the average salary of Columbia University MBA graduates?
Columbia University offers a number of business and management programs including an MBA through its Business School. Average median salary of an MBA graduate of Columbia University is USD 175,000 per year. Given below are the salary of MBA graduates of Columbia University:
Item | Median Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
Base Salary | USD 175,000 | USD 52,700 – USD 400,000 |
Signing Bonus | USD 30,000 | USD 3,935 – USD 150,000 |
Other Guaranteed Compensation | USD 32,150 | USD 3,000 – USD 275,000 |
Columbia University Programs
Columbia University programs for international students are offered through 3 undergraduate schools, 13 graduate and professional schools. It consist of more than 100 degree programs on the UG as well as PG levels in leading fields such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Sciences and several more. Student-to-faculty ratio at Columbia is 6:1, which gives visibility to students and helps connect one-on-one with world-class experienced faculties. Additionally, the Columbia School of Professional Studies offers 18 part-time master's courses and some of them can be pursued online.
As per the historical data of Columbia alumni, some of the popular streams of study at the university include Economics, Computer Science, Political Science & Government, Psychology, Finance, and more.
Note: In the above pie chart, Others include Business/Commerce, International/Global Studies, Law, Marketing, and Organizational Leadership.
Columbia University Top Courses
Most of the Columbia University courses are ranked in the A and B++ category by Shiksha Grading. Given below are the ranks attained by the top Columbia majors:
|
Columbia Courses |
Shiksha Rankings 2024 |
|---|---|
|
Biology |
A |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
A |
|
Business Economics |
A |
|
Computer Science |
A |
|
Electrical Engineering |
A |
|
Finance |
A |
|
Mathematics |
A |
|
Business Analytics |
B++ |
|
Chemical Engineering |
B++ |
|
Civil Engineering |
B++ |
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: Is Columbia University nationally accredited?
Columbia University offers highly ranked and top-rated programs. All the programs offered by Columbia University are accredited by the relevant and leading accrediting agencies. Columbia University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. It is one of six regional education accrediting agencies in the United States. Columbia University has underwent its decimal accreditation during the 2015/16 academic year and then it was re-accredited for 8-10 years.
Q: Is it worth pursuing the Columbia University MBA program?
Columbia University MBA is one of the most pursued courses offered by the university and the Columbia Business School is a part of the top 10 global business schools. Its core structure consists of two full-term courses and eight half-term courses and help students develop a deep understanding of essential academic disciplines and practical skills for success in the competitive business world. For Indian students, the Columbia MBA fees lies in the range of INR 44 L - 76 L. As per the latest reports, the average median salary of a Columbia University MBA graduate of the university is USD 175,000 (INR 1.4 Cr) per year.
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.51
Q: Which majors is Columbia University known for?
At the Columbia University, international students can choose between more than 100 degree programs on the bachelor's as well as master's levels. According to the historical data of the university's alumni, some of the most popular Columbia University courses are:
Q: When should I apply to Columbia MBA?
Columbia Business School uses a rolling admission process, so it is always advantageous for students to apply as early as possible. Students may apply in either August or January. Each year, many international students apply to the Columbia University MBA program. Mentioned below are the Columbia MBA application deadlines:
Round | Application Deadline | Interview Decisions Released |
|---|---|---|
Round 1 | Closed | Mid-Oct, 2024 |
Round 2 | Jan 5, 2025 | Early-to-mid Feb, 2025 |
Round 3 | April 3, 2024 | Mid-to-late Apr, 2024 |
Q: What is unique about Columbia MBA?
Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most popular courses offered by Columbia Uni and students across the globe desire to pursue this course. Mentioned below are some interesting facts of the Columbia University MBA course:
- MBA course stands in the top 10 business schools across the world.
- Median salary of an MBA graduate of Columbia University is USD 175,000 per year.
- Columbia Business School (CBS) is about 12 km from New York City which paves the way for students to have one of the best job opportunities in the world. New York City is known as "door to success"
- Columbia University MBA is in seventh position in Forbes’ list of Best US Business Schools and sixth in US News’ Best Business School (US) list.
- Its core structure consists of two full-term courses and eight half-term courses, forming the foundational experience for its students. This core curriculum is designed to help students with a deep understanding of essential academic disciplines and practical skills for success in the competitive business world.
Columbia University Scholarships 2024
Columbia University scholarships include need-based financial aid for students on the basis of their financial status mentioned in the application. When submitting their admission application, international applicants need to specify that they intend to apply for financial aid. International students who are admitted without requesting financial aid are not permitted to change their status in order to reapply for aid, even if their financial situation changes. Average disbursement amount for recipients of international financial aid is USD 79,375, which typically includes a student work-study position and an unrepaid Columbia grant. Additionally, many Columbia students, including international students, receive scholarships from outside on a merit basis.
Listed below are some of the top Columbia University scholarships for international students:
this University
2 exclusive scholarships available66.9 L worth total scholarship amountWe have helped students get 30Cr+ in scholarships
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: Does Columbia University offers scholarships for international students?
Columbia University offers a number of scholarships to international students. Each scholarship has its own criteria and conditions. Columbia University provides scholarships to students from all socio-economic backgrounds including international students. Columbia is committed to meeting 100% of the demonstrated need of all admitted first-year international students. It has a substantial amount of financial aid for international students totalling over USD 17 million for the class of 2027.
Q: Is there a different application for scholarships for international students at Columbia University?
Columbia University does not discriminate between domestic and international students. At the university, scholarship application process is the same for all students, regardless of their citizenship or country of residence. International students are advised to check the application instruction for more information on the procedure and requirements for scholarships.
Q: Are international students allowed to apply at Early Decision for scholarships at Columbia University?
Yes, just like a domestic student international students can apply for Early Decision for scholarship at Columbia University. However, some international students may fall out of the ‘need-blind’ scholarship category despite of excellent academic record. In such cases, those students will be deferred to Regular Decisions so that Committee on Admissions may review the entire global applicant pool.
Columbia University Admissions 2024
Columbia is an ideal option for students willing to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees outside of IITs and NITs. Prospective undergraduates can apply to Columbia University either through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. However, application process for graduates varies as per the academic school of choice. While applying, candidates must submit a non-refundable sum of USD 85 (INR 7.1 K) as the Columbia University application fee.
Columbia University acceptance rate stands at 3.6%, which indicates that the university is extremely selective.
Demonstrated below are the steps to apply at Columbia:
Columbia University Admission Requirements for International Students
In order to secure an enrollment, Indian students must fulfill all the Columbia University admission requirements. It is interesting to note that every applicant has to go through largely identical admissions process at Columbia, regardless of their citizenship or place of residence.
| Autobiographical information | Academic transcripts | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field |
| School Profile & Mid-year report | Statement of purpose / Essay | Recommendations letters |
Columbia University Application Deadline for International Students
Columbia University admits international undergraduates through the Early Decision/Regular Decision every year. Given below are the application deadlines for first-year students:
|
Application Type |
Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Early Decision |
Over |
|
Regular Decision |
Jan 1, 2025 |
Note: Columbia does not release any fixed deadlines for Master's courses. Hence, applicants must go through the official website for the course-specific and graduate deadlines.
Columbia University Acceptance Rate
With the Columbia University acceptance rate of merely 3.85%, it is one of the most competitive universities worldwide. Among the 60,248 applicants, only 2,319 received an admission offer for the Class of 2028 admissions.
- Application fees :USD 78.9 - 250
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Needed for few courses |
| LOR | Needed for few courses |
| Essays | Needed for few courses |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Important dates| Intake season | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | 3ʳᵈ Jan 2023 - 22ⁿᵈ May 2024 |
| Spring | 1ˢᵗ - 15ᵗʰ Oct 2023 |
| Summer | 7ᵗʰ Feb 2024 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: Can I get into Columbia with a 3.5 GPA?
Applicants with a GPA of 3.5 may still be considered for admission to Columbia University. While GPA between 3.9 and 4.0 is ideal, having a slightly lower GPA doesn’t necessarily disqualify any applicant. However, it's essential to compensate with outstanding achievements in other areas of your application, such as extracurricular activities, LORs, SOP and many more. Hence the university doesn’t just see scores but also sees an overall performance of the applicant.
Q: How can Indians apply to Columbia University?
Below is the application process for Columbia University for international students:
The following are the three ways an applicant can apply through:
The Coalition Application
The Common Application
The QuestBridge Application
. Step 1: The Application Process can be made through the Common Application or the above
Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly, and see if your current qualifications are recognised.
Step 3: You should meet the entry requirements checklist before applying:
Transcripts of your high school
Must meet the English requirements
Two letters of recommendations
SOP
USD 85 application fee
Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.
Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.
Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 85, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)
Step 7: you can check out their official portal/applicant might get an official mail if they are selected ( However, to check your application status, it is suggested to check out their portal.)
Postgraduate Application Process:
Step 1: Identify your course. The application can be made through the official Columbia University portal.
Step 2: Check your requirements thoroughly and see if your current qualifications are recognised.
Step 3: Applicants must meet the entry requirements checklist below before applying to the university:
Transcripts of your high school
Must meet the English requirements
Three letters of recommendations
SOP
Resume/CV
Some programs might have additional requirements, depending on the course.
Step 4: Make sure your English requirements meet the standard of the University.
Step 5: You can submit your application after your requirements are ready.
Step 6: The applicant must pay the application fee of USD 120, which will not be refundable. However, if the applicant can’t afford it, they have a process to waive it. ( Check out how you can waive application fees)
Step 7: you can check out their official portal/applicant might get an official mail if they are selected ( However, to check your application status, it is suggested to check out their portal)
Q: Is Columbia MBA hard to get into?
Yes, it is hard to get admission into the Columbia MBA programme because of the high competition. The Columbia University acceptance rate for the MBA programme is around 22%. For the class of 2022, the Columbia Business School receive 6177 applications out of which 1363 are admitted to the Columbia MBA program. International students require a good GPA and academic profile to get into the university Students can know more about MBA in the USA and then apply. Applicants must have a good portfolio and perform well in academics to get into the university.
Q: What are the admission requirements at Columbia University for international students?
International students seeking admission to Columbia University are required to meet both the course-specific and general admission requirements. International students are advised to check for the course-specific requirements before applying. Listed below are the general Columbia University admission requirements for international students:
- Application form;
- Official academic transcripts (English translation);
- Resume;
- Interview;
- Essays;
- Letter of recommendations (LOR);
- GRE/GMAT scores; and
- SAT/ACT scores.
Q: What are the English language requirements at Columbia University for international students?
English is the language of instruction for the majority of the programs at Columbia University. All international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Minimum English language requirements for international undergraduate students are:
Exam | Score |
|---|---|
105 or higher | |
7.5 or higher | |
135 or higher |
For postgraduate programs, the minimum English language requirements vary as per the choice of course.
Columbia University Fees
Studying in Columbia University can be considered expensive for Indian students as the first-year tuition fees for undergraduate courses is in the range INR 50 L - 52 L. Whereas, the annual tuition fee for postgraduate courses lies in the range of INR 27 L - 77 L.
Columbia University Cost of Attendance
Columbia University cost of living for international students is inclusive of accommodation & dining, transportation, and personal expenses. Overall, the Columbia University cost of living for Indian students sums upto about INR 18 L in one academic year.
| Expenses | Cost of Living (2024-2025) | Cost of Living in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing & Food | USD 17,580 | INR 14.7 L |
| Books, Personal Expenses & Transportations | USD 3,992 | INR 3.3 L |
| TOTAL | USD 21,572 | INR 18 L |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.96
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(56 courses) | INR 28 L - 1 Cr | Duration: 9 months-3 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 99 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 - 7.5 |
M.A.(140 courses) | INR 20 L - 74 L | Duration: 9 months-5 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 100 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 7 - 8 |
MBA/PGDM(20 courses) | INR 44 L - 78 L | Duration: 9 months-2 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 99 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 7 & Above |
MIM(19 courses) | INR 44 L - 78 L | Duration: 9 months-2 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 99 - 114, IELTS: 7 & Above, GRE |
B.A.(56 courses) | INR 57 L - 58 L | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 - 105, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
B.E. / B.Tech(14 courses) | INR 51 L - 58 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 100 - 105, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
Others PG(27 courses) | INR 28 L - 99 L | Duration: 9 months-2 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 100 - 114, GRE, IELTS: 7 - 8 |
M.Arch(6 courses) | INR 51 L - 82 L | Duration: 1 year-4 years Exam Accepted: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo |
B.Sc.(20 courses) | INR 57 L - 58 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 - 7.5, TOEFL: 105 & Above, Duolingo: 135 & Above |
MPH(6 courses) | INR 23 L - 53 L | Duration: 1 year-30 months Exam Accepted: TOEFL: 100 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: What is the Columbia University cost of living for international students?
Undergraduate students at Columbia University have access to five residential halls, namely Carman Hall, Furnald Hall, Hartley Hall, John Jay Hall, and Wallach Hall. International students at Columbia University are provided with four years of undergraduate housing. Currently, about 90% of students opt to live on campus. Some of the on-campus features include dining halls, hangouts, late-night spots, and campus cafés.
Given below is the breakdown of the expenses of attending the Columbia University:
| Expenses | Cost of Living (2024-2025) | Cost of Living in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing & Food | USD 17,580 | INR 14.7 L |
| Books, Personal Expenses & Transportations | USD 3,992 | INR 3.3 L |
| TOTAL | USD 21,572 | INR 18 L |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.96
Q: Is GRE required for MS in Columbia University?
Test scores (GRE, GMAT, ) are not required for Columbia University. However, if the applicants have taken one of these tests and feel your scores strengthen your application, you may submit your scores as part of your application.
Q: Does Columbia University require an English proficiency test?
International students must be comfortable with rapid and idiomatic spoken English to be considered for Columbia University admission. Students can demonstrate that they are proficient in English by submitting the English proficiency test scores.
Your home language is English.
Your primary language of instruction at school has been English for the duration of your secondary school career.
You earned one or more of the following subsection scores:
700 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section of the SAT
29 or higher on the English or Reading sections of the ACT
Note: If candidates meet, one or more of the above criteria, then fulfilled Columbia’s English language proficiency requirement. If they do not, then they need to take one of the following English Language Proficiency exams:
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English proficiency test | Scores |
|---|---|
TOEFL | A minimum score of 105 |
IELTS | A minimum score of 7.5 |
DET | A minimum score of 135 |
Also check, the IELTS Indicator
Q: What are the Columbia University SAT/ACT requirements?
In order to pursue higher studies in Columbia University, students must appear for one of the standardized tests (SAT/ACT) or other entrance exams like GMAT/GRE for postgraduate courses and secure the minimum scores as listed below:
Entrance Exam | Minimum Score Requirements |
|---|---|
700 or higher | |
29 or higher | |
550 or higher | |
GPA | 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) |
Q: How competitive is admission to Columbia University?
Columbia University is highly competitive mainly because it is one of the Ivy league institutions. Students must demonstrate outstanding achievements and a strong commitment to academic excellence to stand out in the highly competitive applicant pool. Thus, aspiring applicants should be prepared to present a compelling application for Columbia University admissions.
Columbia UniversityStudents Ratings & Reviews
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- 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Columbia University Placements
Columbia University placements is one of the major attraction for international students and offers huge return on investment to graduates of the university. As per the Employment Report released for the Columbia University MBA program by the Columbia Business School, about 95% of the graduates receive Columbia University placement opportunities within 3 months of graduation.
ROI After Education from Columbia University
Return on Investment (ROI) is determined by the salary offered by any university, that graduates get as a placement offer in return for investing some amount of money to attend a college and eventually, for the completion of a degree. Given below are the details of the fees (investment) and salary (return) of MBA at Columbia University:
| Course | Annual Fee (Investment) | Salary (ROI) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | INR 44 L - 77 L |
Median Base Salary: USD 175,000 (INR 1.45 crore) Median Signing Bonus: USD 30,000 (INR 25 L) Range of Salary: USD 52,700 (INR 44 L) to USD 400,000 (INR 3.3 Cr) |
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.22
Columbia University Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
According to the data sourced from the web, the alumni of Columbia are currently working with some of the top organizations in the world across multiple industries. Listed below are the details:
- Columbia University alumni members are working at the university campus, and in organizations such as Google, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Citi, Meta, etc.
- Graduates are working in industries such as Business Development, Education, Operations, Research, Engineering, Finance, etc.
- Some of the courses preferred by the alumni are Economics, Computer Science, Political Science & Government, Psychology, Finance, etc.
A presentation of the sectors where the alumni of Columbia is currently working is as follows:
Note: In the above pie chart, Others include Marketing, Consulting, Sales, Entrepreneurship, and Human Resources.
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: What is the highest package of Columbia University?
The Columbia University the highest base package is around USD 309000 or INR 2.57 Cr. Students get a median salary of INR 1.58 Cr in Consulting industry. Mentioned below are the highlights of Columbia University MBA Placements by Industry 2023:
Industries | Median Salary in 2023 |
|---|---|
Consulting | INR 1.58 Cr |
Financial services | INR 1.08 Cr – INR 1.45 Cr |
Manufacturing | INR 1 Cr |
Media/Technology | INR 1.08 Cr – INR 1.34 Cr |
Others | INR 1.45 Cr |
Q: What are the top 5 majors at Columbia University?
Below are the top 5 majors at Columbia University:
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Executive MBA
- Civil
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Engineering
Q: What are the placement opportunities after completing an MBA from Columbia University?
Columbia University MBA graduates get job offers within three months after completing the degree. They get job offers from top employers in the world such as Adidas, Adobe, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Nike, Google, Meta, Spotify, etc. Mentioned below are the highlights of Columbia University MBA placement 2023:
Head | Stats 2022 | Stats 2023 |
|---|---|---|
Total Enrollment | 864 | 614 |
Placement rate | 95% | 84% |
Median base salary | USD 175,000 or INR 1.45 Cr annually | USD 175,000 or INR 1.45 Cr annually |
Q: What is the average package for Columbia University?
The Columbia University MBA average salary is USD 175,000 or INR 1.45 Cr annually. The average signing bonus for MBA graduates in 2023 is USD 30,000 or INR 30 L. The Columbia University average salary ranges from USD 50,000 – USD 309,000 (INR 41.64 L - INR 2.57 Cr) annually. Mentioned below are the highlights of Columbia University MBA Placements by Industry 2023:
Industries | Median Salary in 2022 | Median Salary in 2023 |
|---|---|---|
Consulting | INR 1.45 Cr | INR 1.58 Cr |
Financial services | INR 1.04 Cr – INR 1.49 Cr | INR 1.08 Cr – INR 1.45 Cr |
Manufacturing | INR 1.03 Cr | INR 1 Cr |
Media/Technology | INR 1.06 Cr – INR 1.37 Cr | INR 1.08 Cr – INR 1.34 Cr |
Others | INR 52.25 L – INR 1.69 Cr | INR 1.45 Cr |
Q: What is the placement percentage at Columbia University?
Columbia University placement rate is around 84% in 2023. MBA graduates get job offers within three months after graduation. Mentioned below are the highlights of Columbia University MBA employment profile 2023:
Particular | Stats of 2022 | Stats of 2023 |
|---|---|---|
Placement rate | 95% | 84% |
Median salary | USD 175,000 or INR 1.45 Cr annually | USD 175,000 or INR 1.45 Cr annually |
Average signing bonus | USD 30,000 or INR 30 L | USD 30,000 or INR 30 L |
Top industry | Financial Services | Consulting |
Columbia University Rankings 2025
Columbia University is one of the top-most university in the world and is constantly ranked among the top 25 global universities by the top ranking bodies. As per the Shiksha grading, Columbia has obtained an overall ranking of A++. Additionally, some of the Columbia courses such as Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Business Economics rank in the A category. Other programs such as Business Analytics, Chemical Engineering, and Civil Engineering have secured the grade B++. Whereas, Entrepreneurship ranks in the C+ category.
Given below are the comprehensive Columbia University rankings, as per the Shiksha grading system:
|
Category/Subjects |
Grade |
|---|---|
|
Overall University Ranking |
A++ |
|
Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Business Economics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Finance, and Mathematics |
A |
|
Business Analytics, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
B++ |
|
Entrepreneurship |
C+ |
Other than the world rankings, the Columbia Business School has received a ranking of #3 for its MBA courses according to the Financial Times Ranking 2024.
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: Is Columbia University good for international students?
Columbia University is one of the finest institutions of higher education in the United States of America. Its campus offers a very diverse and culturally vibrant environment for international students. As of Fall 2022 international student population at Columbia University is over 19,000+ students from 152 countries around the world. India is the second top country by enrollment at Columbia University.
Q: How good is Columbia University?
Columbia University is surely a good option for international students mainly beacuse of a diverse range of excellent academic programs . Notable programs include the film, television and digital media school which has produced countless successful alumni in the entertainment industry.
Here are the reasons why you should go for Columbia University:
Academics: The Columbia University Fees for international students are comprised of various components, with some common elements applied to all international students. These components include tuition fees, insurance, transportation, accommodation charges, books and supplies, personal expenses, and miscellaneous fees. When converted to Indian rupees, these fees provide an overall view of the financial aspects of studying at Columbia University for international students.
Placements: Columbia University is offered by the Columbia Business School. As per the 2022 Employment Report, 95% students received job offers 3 months after graduation. The median base salary stood at $175,000 ranging from $52,700 to $400,000. According to the report, from Technology to Finance, Real Estate to Social Enterprise and Sustainability, the students made an impact across industries and sectors.
Location of the university - The Columbia University is in a location where arts & culture, technology industry and entertainment industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. The location gives Columbia University students an additional mark to study at Columbia.
Ranking: If we consider Columbia University world ranking, then as per QS World University Rankings 2024, the university is placed in the 23rd position. If we compare the university’s ranking with 2023, then its position has declined. In 2023, it was placed in the 22nd position
Fees: : The cost of attending Columbia for Indian students can vary depending on several factors. Tuition fees for international students at Columbia are typically higher than for US citizens. However, it is important that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending Columbia.
Q: What is the Columbia University ranking in the world?
Major ranking providers like QS and Times Higher Education rank Columbia University among the top universities in the world while US News has ranked it among the top 15 Universities in the World for 2023. Given below are Columbia University world ranking as mentioned in the prominent rankings:
Ranking Source | World Ranking 2024 |
|---|---|
QS - World University Ranking | #23 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - University Ranking | #17 |
US News & World Report - Global Universities | #12 |
Students can also check the list of the World's Top 100 Universities 2023-2024
Q: Is Columbia University an Ivy League University?
Yes, Columbia University is an Ivy League University among the other 7 top universities which were introduced as a group of 8 in terms of tough athletic competition among them. Other members of the Ivy League universities include Brown University, Cornell University, Harvard University, Princeton University, Dartmouth College, University of Pennsylvania, and Yale University. The term Ivy League is typically used beyond the sports context to refer to the eight schools as a group of elite colleges with connotations of academic excellence, selectivity in admissions, and social elitism. It is not easy to get into Ivy League schools as their acceptance rate is very low.
Q: Why is Shiksha Grading better than other ranking bodies?
For the students looking forward to study abroad, the ranking of a university plays a crucial role in decision-making. However, the availability of multiple rankings online can be overwhelming for the university's international audience. All the top ranking bodies rank universities on the basis of different parameters, which can be hard to understand for first-time study abroad aspirants. Keeping this in mind, the Shiksha Study Abroad has launched Shiksha Grading. It caters the Indian audience and ranks all the universities with Indians as their target audience.
What makes Shiksha Grading stand out is that the website uses the aggregate of all the publicly available university and course rankings from top-ranking publishers and maps it into 9 buckets - A++, A+, A, B+, B, C+, C. In this method, universities are graded by country and courses are graded by availability at the college in a particular country. With the help of this, students will no longer be required to check multiple ranking organisations to know about the performance of a particular university. Students would only be required to check Shiksha Grading – a platform where all the top rankings from popular ranking groups would be normalised and all universities would be graded into 9 buckets - A++, A+, A, B+, B, C+, C.
Columbia Vs Stanford Vs Harvard: Which is better?
Columbia University, Harvard University as well as Stanford University are the most prestigious. In terms of ROI, the Stanford University has an upper hand among all the three universities. However, Harvard University is ranked at the highest spot.
Mentioned below is the comparison between all the universities on the basis of some parameters, which can help students choose a university for themselves:
Compare Columbia University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
Columbia University | INR 27.73 L - 1.02 Cr | A++ | #34 QS, 2025 |
Yale University  Compare | INR 36.49 L - 71.55 L | A++ | #23 QS, 2025 |
Princeton University Compare | INR 43.71 L - 50.32 L | A++ | #22 QS, 2025 |
UPenn Compare | INR 18.06 L - 66.34 L | A++ | #11 QS, 2025 |
NYU Compare | INR 26.75 L - 70.94 L | A++ | #43 QS, 2025 |
Stanford University Compare | INR 29.76 L - 68.65 L | A++ | #6 QS, 2025 |
Study in USA
Key Facts About USA
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
Q: What is the cost of a student visa for the United States of America?
USA offers three types of visas to students; F-1, J-1 and M-1. So, the cost of a student visa will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. US visa cost for a F-1 student visa is USD 185. F-1 visa is for international students who are applying for a course in any American university that requires more than 18 hours of study in a week. J-1 student visa is for exchange students, and M-1 student visa is for students enrolled in vocational and non-academic programs.
Q: Which are some of the top-ranked universities in USA?
USA is one of the most popular countries for study abroad options for international students and is a hub of globally renowned universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, some top universities in USA are Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Stanford University, and many more.
Given below is the list of top Universities in USA as mentioned in the prominent rankings.
University | QS Global Rankings 2025 |
|---|---|
#1 | |
#4 | |
#6 | |
#10 | |
#11 | |
#12 | |
#16 | |
#22 | |
#23 | |
#32 |
Q: Do universities in USA offer scholarships to international students?
Opting to study abroad is a major step that students take for their career and managing the expenses (including the tuition fee and living costs) play a deciding factor in this decision. Here is where scholarships dive in and help students study in their dream college by cutting down a portion of their expenses. Here are some scholarships offered by the top universities in USA that are available for international students:
Columbia University Notable Alumni
Columbia University is one of the most reputated universities in the world due to its excellence in teaching, heritage as well as celebrated alumni. These graduates include figures from all walks of life and include several notable Indians.
|
Columbia Alumni |
Profession |
|
|---|---|---|
|
B.R. Ambedkar |
Former Minister of Law and Justice of India
|
 |
|
Barack Obama |
First African- American President of the USA |
 |
|
Founding Father of the United States |
 |
|
|
American Singer (Winner of 15 Grammys) |
 |
|
|
Sara Ali Khan |
Indian Bollywood Actor |
 |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Q: Who are the famous alumni of Columbia University?
Columbia University is among the top universities for higher education in the United States. The University has produced more than 375,000 alumni members worldwide. The University graduates are working for top sectors such as Business Development, Education, Engineering, Research, Finance, Information Technology, and more. Also, the graduates are highly skilled in Leadership, Public Speaking, Project Management, Management, Marketing, Business Strategy, and others. Some famous personalities that are part of the Columbia University alumni network include:
- Barack Obama
- Franklin Delano Roosevelt
- Jake Gyllenhaal
- Timothee Chalamet
- Alexander Hamilton
- Warren Buffett
- Theodore Roosevelt
- James Franco
- Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar
- Katie Holmes
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
- Casey Affleck
- Alicia Keys
- Joseph Gordon Levitt
- Leonard Cohen
Q: How many alumni does Columbia University have?
Columbia University has a rich alumni network all over the world. The University has more than 375,000 alumni network who are working worldwide. The University alumni network includes various famous personalities, entrepreneurs, innovators, leaders, etc. The University graduates also work in top companies such as Google, Amazon, Meta, JP Morgan Chase, and Microsoft. Moreover, the graduates work in leading sectors such as Business Development, Engineering, Finance, Information Technology, etc.
Q: Who are the notable Indian alumni of Columbia University?
Columbia University is among the top choices of international students for pursuing higher education in the United States. Each year thousands of international students apply to the university. The University is known for offering the best academic programs for its international students. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is one of the notable Indian alumni of Columbia University. Moreover, the alumni are highly skilled in Project Management, Social Media, Strategic Planning, Business Strategy, and more.
Columbia University Campus Life
Columbia University campus is one of the best campuses around the globe. One of the most attractive features here is the Columbia University Ambedkar statue, which is made of bronze. Columbia provides a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment to all their students, staff, faculty, alumni for them to thrive. Disability Services at the university provides accommodations and services to eligible students, both virtually and in-person, dependent upon the student’s location as well as the classroom setting.
Listed below are details of the Columbia University campuses:
|
Columbia University Campuses |
Highlights |
|---|---|
|
CU Irving Medical Center |
|
|
Manhattanville Campus |
|
|
Morningside Heights |
|
Columbia University Location
Columbia University campus is located specifically on the island of Manhattan and is spread over a area of 299 acres.
Commonly asked questions On Others
Q: How is the Columbia University campus life?
Columbia University is home away from home for international students. Attending the university has its own perks when it comes to the campus life. While studying in the university, students get to enjoy the perfect blend of urban living with the close community feel of a small town. Mentioned below are the facilities which make the University of Columbia an ideal study abroad option:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Athletics | Varsity sports, intramural sports, club sports, recreational opportunities, and more |
| Health & Well-being | Health (physical & emotional), wellness, and fitness services |
| Diversity & Inclusion | An inclusive living and learning environment for every member of the community |
Q: How many campuses does Columbia University have?
Columbia University operates on three beautiful and vibrant campuses, namely: CU Irving Medical Center, Manhattanville Campus, and Morningside Heights.
Columbia University Campuses | Highlights |
|---|---|
CU Irving Medical Center |
|
Manhattanville Campus |
|
Morningside Heights |
|
Columbia University Faculty
Columbia University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and holds some of the best faculty members around the globe. Professors of Columbia University are academically excellent and have an expertise in their fields. A total of over 4,300 faculty members are actively serving the university and the list includes 70 members of the National Academy of Sciences, 178 members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and 65 members of the National Academy of Medicine. In total, the Columbia faculty has included 52 Nobel laureates, 12 National Medal of Science recipients, and 32 National Academy of Engineering members.
Columbia University FAQs
Q: What are the best reasons to attend Columbia University?
Columbia University is one of the most prestigious universities around the globe and students worldwide desire to pursue their higher studies here. Mentioned below are the best reasons to attend the University of Columbia:
Academics: Columbia University programs for international students are offered through three undergraduate schools, thirteen graduate and professional schools consist of more than 100 degree programs on the undergraduate and postgraduate level as well. Columbia provides courses in leading fields such as Arts, Business, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Sciences and several more. Student-to-faculty ratio at Columbia is 6:1, which gives visibility to students and helps connect one-on-one with world-class experienced faculties.
Location of the university: Columbia is where Arts & Culture, Technology Industry & Entertainment Industry providing endless internship. International Students have access to beaches, outdoor activities, live music/performances and attractions which makes their make campus life more enjoyable. Its location gives the students an additional mark to study.
Ranking: Columbia University has obtained an overall ranking of A++ in Shiksha rankings. Additionally, some of the Columbia courses such as Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Business Economics rank in the A category. Other programs such as Business Analytics, Chemical Engineering, and Civil Engineering have secured the grade B++. Whereas, Entrepreneurship ranks in the C+ category.
Fees: For Indian students, the cost of attending Columbia can vary depending on several factors. Also, the annual tuition fees for international students at Columbia University are typically higher than for US citizens. However, it is important to note that the tuition fee can change over time, and it is recommended to visit the official website to recheck the fees and accommodation. Indian students should also consider other costs such as housing, health insurance, meals and transportation attending Columbia University. Scholarships and financial aid options are also available to help students from financial barriers.
Q: How did Columbia University get its name?
Founded as a King's College for males, Columbia University was established by a royal charter issued by Great Britain’s King George II in 1754. Due to the American Revolution the university had to go through am eight-year long hiatus period. Once resumed, in 1784 the institution was renamed Columbia College as a form of patriotic reference to explorer Christopher Columbus. Columbia University acquired its now known name 112 years post this incident.
Q: What is the Columbia University application fee?
While applying for Columbia University admissions, all international students are required to pay the Columbia University application fee. For Indian students, the payable amount is USD 85 (INR 7 K). International students must note that this fee non-refundable fee and the university will not refund it under any circumstances. However, applicants may qualify for a fee waiver at the time of application.
Conversion Rate: 1 USD = INR 83.31
Q: In which industries do the graduates of Columbia University work?
Most of the University of Pennsylvania graduates get placed in industries such as Business Development, Education, Operations, Research, Engineering, Finance, and more, as per the historical data of the university's alumni. Given below is a graphical representation of the top industries in which the Columbia University graduates work:
Columbia University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a week ago
You can see a slight difference in the median salaries of LPU and Chitkara Univeristy. However, the intake capacity of LPU is much higher than CU and so is its placement percentage.
LPU is ranked 50/300 by NIRF Engineering and Amity University Noida is ranked 43/131 by The Week Engineering . LPU B.Te
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The steps involved in the application process of the MBA course offered at Columbia University. First, online application is to be filled by the candidates and the portal opens under this process generally in mid-August and closes in mid-April and charged INR 55,617 fees. It is also required that a
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
If you are interested in applying to MBA course at Columbia University here are some steps that you need to follow. First, one is expected to apply online which is normally opened from mid August and closed mid April with application fee of INR 55,617. Candidates can also provide GMAT or GRE examina
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 6 days ago
Some popular courses offered by Columbia University are like:
- Economics
- Computer science
- Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- research and Experimental Psychology
- History
- English
- Neuroscience and Neurobiology
- Biology, etc.
S
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 4 days ago
Columbia Business School is ranked at #12 by the US News and World Ranking body 2024 among the best 124 B-schools of the world. CBS MBA graduates are known for their calibre in understanding the Business and Management world and make innovations to it. The CBS Placement rate for the MBA class 2023 s
P
Beginner-Level 4
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Columbia UniversityLocation
| University City | New York, New York, USA |
| Size of city | Large |
| Population of City | 86,22,697 |
Columbia UniversityCampuses
116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027
Visit official siteColumbia UniversityContact Information
Columbia University Popular & recent articles
Which university is better in terms of placement after B.Tech CSE, LPU, Amity, chitkara or CU?