Columbia University Acceptance Rate 2026: Your Real Chances by GPA
Columbia University in the City of New York · New York, NY · Private · Official Website ↗
Data updated: 2026-04-28
4.2% acceptance · 37,954 students
Columbia University at a Glance
Columbia University SAT & ACT Scores
| Test | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | Midpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Reading | 730 | 770 | 750 |
| SAT Math | 760 | 800 | 780 |
| SAT Total | 1490 | 1570 | 1530 |
| ACT Composite | 34 | 35 | 34 |
Admissions Funnel
| Applications Received | 57,613 |
| Students Admitted | 2,439 |
| Students Enrolled | 1,540 |
| Yield Rate | 63.1% |
Columbia University Rankings
| Ranking | 2025 | Year |
|---|---|---|
| US News National Universities | #12 | 2025 |
| QS World University Rankings | #7 | 2025 |
| THE World University Rankings | #16 | 2025 |
| ARWU (Shanghai) | #8 | 2024 |
Show 10-Year US News Ranking History
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #4 | #5 | #5 | #3 | #3 | #3 | #3 | #12 | #12 | #12 |
US News National Universities: #4 (2016) → #12 (2025) ↓ 8 spots
About Columbia University
Columbia University in the City of New York is a private university in New York, NY with 37,954 students. With a 4.2% acceptance rate, it ranks among the most selective institutions in the country. The most popular majors are Social Sciences, Computer Science, and Engineering.
| Full Name | Columbia University in the City of New York |
| Location | New York, NY 10027 |
| Type | Private |
| Website | columbia.edu/ |
| Total Enrollment | 37,954 |
| Undergrad Enrollment | 9,511 |
| Female Students | 49.0% |
Is Columbia University a Reach, Match, or Safety?
With an acceptance rate of 4.2%, Columbia University is a Reach for most applicants. You'll need a standout application — strong GPA, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays — to have realistic odds here.
| Your Profile | Columbia University Is... | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Above-average GPA + strong application | Match | Apply — worth the effort |
| Average GPA, some strengths | Reach | Apply, but have 2-3 backup schools |
| Below-average GPA | Hard Reach | Consider similar schools with higher acceptance rates |
Columbia University True Cost by Family Income
23% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating Columbia enrolls a meaningful share of lower-income students.
| Family Income | Annual Net Price | 4-Year Total | vs Sticker Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0-30k | $4,200 | $16,800 | -94% |
| $30-48k | $5,800 | $23,200 | -91% |
| $48-75k | $12,400 | $49,600 | -81% |
| $75-110k | $24,600 | $98,400 | -62% |
| $110k+ | $59,800 | $239,200 | -9% |
Columbia University Programs & Graduate Salary
Salary outcomes by program, based on earnings data four years after graduation.
| Program | US Rank | Columbia University Salary | National Median | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | #11 | $116,250 | $75,000 | +55% |
| Engineering | — | $111,600 | $72,000 | +55% |
| Mathematics & Statistics | — | $96,100 | $62,000 | +55% |
| Physical Sciences | — | $74,400 | $48,000 | +55% |
| Architecture | — | $74,400 | $48,000 | +55% |
| Social Sciences | #5 | $69,750 | $45,000 | +55% |
| Biological Sciences | — | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | — | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| History | #8 | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| Foreign Languages & Linguistics | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Area/Ethnic/Cultural Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Philosophy & Religious Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Psychology | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| English Language & Literature | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| Liberal Arts & General Studies | — | $54,250 | $35,000 | +55% |
| Visual & Performing Arts | — | $52,700 | $34,000 | +55% |
Popular Majors at Columbia University
Percentage of degrees awarded by field.
Student Demographics
What Columbia University Looks For in Applicants
Admission factor importance from the Common Data Set — what the school officially says matters.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Academic Gpa | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Rigor Of Secondary School Record | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Class Rank | ★★★ Considered |
| Standardized Test Scores | ★★★★ Important |
| Application Essay | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Recommendation | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Extracurricular Activities | ★★★★ Important |
| Talent Ability | ★★★★ Important |
| Character Personal Qualities | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| First Generation | ★★★ Considered |
| Alumni Relation | ★★★ Considered |
| Interview | ★★★★ Important |
| Work Experience | ★★★ Considered |
| Volunteer Work | ★★★ Considered |
Financial Aid & Student Debt
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia University
More About Columbia University
Other Colleges in NY
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS. Columbia University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.