About Columbia University
Columbia University is a private research university (Ivy League) in New York City, New York, United States, established in 1754. Columbia is an Ivy League university in Upper Manhattan and the oldest institution of higher education in New York State. It administers the Pulitzer Prizes and offers direct access to the business, media and finance world of New York City.
International students from all over the world study at Columbia, supported by international student offices, career services and a large alumni network.
Columbia ranking
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Columbia University is ranked #38 in the world. Rankings look at academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations and international outlook — also check the subject ranking for your chosen course.
Why study at Columbia?
- Ranked #38 in the QS World University Rankings 2026
- Member of the Ivy League
- Located in New York City
- Columbia Business School, Law School and Mailman School of Public Health
- Eligible for OPT work after graduation (STEM OPT extension for eligible STEM degrees)
Popular courses at Columbia
Columbia offers undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s and professional) and doctoral (PhD) programs. Subject areas popular with international students include:
- Business (MBA)
- Law (JD)
- Medicine (MD)
- Public Health
- Computer Science
- Engineering
US bachelor’s degrees usually take four years and include general education courses before you choose a major. Master’s degrees usually take one to two years, and PhDs typically five to six years.
Columbia admission requirements for international students
- Undergraduate: apply through the Common App with your Class 12 / high-school transcripts, essays, teacher recommendations and proof of English. SAT/ACT policies vary — check the current testing policy.
- Graduate: apply directly to the program with a bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV and English test scores; some programs ask for the GRE or GMAT.
- English: TOEFL iBT around 100 or IELTS Academic 7.0+ is typically expected (requirements vary by school and program).
Columbia tuition fees and cost of living
Tuition: Approx. $62,000 – $70,000 per year (undergraduate tuition; varies by program). Graduate and professional programs (MBA, JD, MD) have their own fees. On top of tuition, budget for housing, food, health insurance, books and travel. To get your I-20 you must show funds that cover the estimated cost of the first year.
Intakes and application deadlines
Fall (August/September) — main intake; some graduate programs also admit in Spring (January). Undergraduate early deadlines are usually in November and regular deadlines in early January; many graduate programs close between December and February for Fall entry. Always confirm dates on the official website.
Scholarships and financial aid at Columbia
Need-based financial aid for some international undergraduates (need-aware admission); graduate funding through fellowships and assistantships. Check the financial aid and graduate school pages for eligibility and deadlines.
F-1 student visa and work after graduation
After you accept an offer and show proof of funds, the university issues a Form I-20. You then pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and apply for an F-1 student visa at a US embassy or consulate.
F-1 students can usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks. After graduation, Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of work, and graduates of eligible STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Immigration rules can change, so always check the latest official guidance.
How GIEC Global helps you get into Columbia
GIEC Global offers free counselling, university and course shortlisting, SOP and essay guidance, application support and F-1 visa preparation for Columbia University.
