Columbia University: Exams, Courses, Notable Alumni and more

Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the United States. Founded in 1754 as King’s College, Columbia has a rich history of academic excellence and has been a leading center for research, innovation, and higher learning. Columbia’s alumni include four U.S. presidents, 34 foreign heads of state, 10 Supreme Court justices, and over 100 Nobel laureates.

As a member of the Ivy League, Columbia University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, attracting students from around the world.

The university is renowned for its world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and vibrant campus life. Columbia’s strategic location in New York City provides unparalleled opportunities for professional development, internships, and cultural experiences. The university’s commitment to academic rigor and inclusive education makes it a top choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience.

History

Columbia University, located in New York City, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. It was founded in 1754 as King’s College by the royal charter of George II of Great Britain. The university’s original mission was to educate young men for leadership roles in the church and state. During the American Revolution, instruction was suspended, and the college’s future was uncertain. After the war, the institution was renamed Columbia College in 1784 and eventually became Columbia University in 1896 as it expanded its scope and offerings.

Fact: Oldest and Fifth-Oldest ~
Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States.

Over the centuries, Columbia University has grown significantly in both physical infrastructure and academic programs. Today, it stands as a leading center for research and education, known for its rigorous academic standards, distinguished faculty, and influential alumni. The university has made substantial contributions to various fields, including science, medicine, law, and the humanities, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in higher education.

Administration of Columbia University

Columbia University operates under a well-defined administrative structure, ensuring effective governance and management of its diverse academic and administrative units. The key components of the university’s administration include:

Administrator	Discription
The President	The President of Columbia University is the chief executive officer, responsible for overseeing all aspects of the university’s operations. The President works closely with the university’s governing boards, faculty, and administration to set strategic priorities and ensure academic excellence.
The Provost	The Provost is the chief academic officer, responsible for academic affairs, including faculty appointments, curriculum development, and research initiatives. The Provost works to maintain and enhance the university’s academic standards and reputation.
The Board of Trustees	The Board of Trustees is the governing body of Columbia University. It provides oversight and guidance on major financial and strategic decisions, ensuring the long-term stability and growth of the institution.
Deans and Department Chairs	Each school within Columbia University is led by a dean, who is responsible for the academic and administrative functions of their respective school. Department chairs oversee specific academic departments, managing faculty, curriculum, and departmental initiatives.

Columbia University Highlights

Columbia University is renowned for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and vibrant campus life. Some key highlights of Columbia University include:

Ivy League Member: Columbia is a member of the Ivy League, a group of eight prestigious universities known for their high academic standards and selective admissions.
World-Class Faculty: The university boasts a faculty that includes Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and leading experts in various fields.
Research Opportunities: Columbia is a major research institution, offering extensive opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in cutting-edge research across a wide range of disciplines.
Urban Campus: Located in the heart of New York City, Columbia offers students access to the cultural, professional, and academic resources of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Diverse Community: Columbia’s student body is highly diverse, with students from all 50 states and over 150 countries, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Various Courses Offered at Columbia University (Both Tech and Non-Tech)

Columbia University offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including both technical and non-technical fields. Some of the major courses offered include:

Technical Courses

Course Name	Duration	Fees (per year)
M.S. in Computer Science	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Data Science	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Electrical Engineering	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Mechanical Engineering	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Biomedical Engineering	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Industrial Engineering	1.5 – 2 years	$64,864
M.S. in Financial Engineering	1.5 – 2 years	$66,880
M.S. in Operations Research	1.5 – 2 years	$66,880
Master of Computer Science (Online)	1.5 – 2 years	$48,432

Non-Technical Courses

Course Name	Duration	Fees (per year)
M.A. in History	1.5 – 2 years	$63,092
M.A. in Psychology	1.5 – 2 years	$63,092
M.A. in Political Science	1.5 – 2 years	$63,092
Master of Public Administration (MPA)	2 years	$63,092
M.S. in Social Work	2 years	$60,784
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)	2 – 3 years	$63,092
M.A. in Economics	1.5 – 2 years	$63,092
Master of International Affairs (MIA)	2 years	$63,092
Master of Public Health (MPH)	2 years	$63,092

Acceptance Rate of Columbia University for Different Programs

Columbia University is highly selective, with acceptance rates varying by program and level of study. Generally, the acceptance rates are as follows:

Program Type	Program Name	Acceptance Rate	Details
Undergraduate	Overall (Columbia College and SEAS)	3.9%	Highly competitive, reflecting the overall selectivity of the university.
Graduate	MBA (Columbia Business School)	18.2%	Competitive, with a focus on leadership and academic excellence.
Graduate	Law (Columbia Law School)	16.8%	Selective, admitting students with outstanding academic records and LSAT scores.
Graduate	Medical (Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons)	3.4%	Extremely competitive, requiring high MCAT scores and exceptional academic performance.
Graduate	Journalism (Columbia Journalism School)	21.5%	Moderately competitive, with emphasis on experience and writing skills.
Graduate	Engineering (Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science)	22.3%	Selective, focusing on strong technical and academic backgrounds.
Graduate	School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)	17.5%	Competitive, with a focus on public policy, international affairs, and academic excellence.
Graduate	Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS)	12.0%	Varies by department, with high selectivity in humanities and sciences.
Graduate	School of Social Work	29.0%	Less competitive relative to other programs, focusing on experience and commitment to social work.

How to Get Admission to Columbia University? (For National and International Students)

Undergraduate Admissions

Choose a Course: Decide on the course you want to study.
Submit Common Application: Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application by the early or regular decision deadlines.
Submit Required Documents: Provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and other supporting documents.
Standardized Tests: Submit SAT or ACT scores (optional for some cycles due to test-optional policies).
Interview: Participate in an optional interview if offered.
Financial Aid: Submit the CSS Profile and FAFSA if applying for financial aid.

Graduate Admissions

Choose a Program: Select a graduate program and review specific entry requirements.
Submit Application: Apply online through the university’s graduate application system by the specified deadlines.
Submit Required Documents: Provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required test scores (e.g., GRE, GMAT).
Interviews: Attend interviews if required by the program.
Financial Aid: Apply for financial aid and scholarships if needed.

Columbia University Standardized Tests

Columbia University requires various standardized tests for admission to its undergraduate and graduate programs. These tests assess the aptitude and readiness of applicants for specific courses. Below is a comprehensive overview of the standardized tests required for different programs at Columbia University.

Program Type	Program Name	Standardized Test	Test Details
Undergraduate	All Programs (Columbia College and SEAS)	SAT or ACT	Tests general academic readiness and skills in reading, writing, math, and science (for ACT).
Graduate	MBA (Columbia Business School)	GMAT or GRE	Evaluates analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and integrated reasoning skills.
Graduate	Law (Columbia Law School)	LSAT	Tests reading comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical reasoning.
Graduate	Medical (Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons)	MCAT	Assesses knowledge in biological and physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and writing skills.
Graduate	Journalism (Columbia Journalism School)	None required, but GRE recommended	GRE evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Graduate	Engineering (Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science)	GRE	Tests quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Graduate	School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)	GRE	Evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Graduate	Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS)	GRE	Required for most programs; assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
Graduate	School of Social Work	GRE (Optional)	Tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills; optional for some programs.

Application Process

Undergraduate Application Process

Common Application: Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
Documents: Submit high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and standardized test scores (if applicable).
Interview: Optional interview.
Financial Aid: Submit the CSS Profile and FAFSA for financial aid.

Graduate Application Process

Online Application: Apply through the specific graduate school’s application portal.
Documents: Submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and test scores.
Interviews: Attend interviews if required.
Financial Aid: Apply for financial aid and scholarships.

Requirements (For National and International Students)

Columbia University is highly selective and has rigorous admission criteria for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Below is an overview of the admission criteria for national and international students.

Undergraduate Admissions

1. Academic Excellence

High School Performance: Strong academic record with high grades in challenging courses. Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or other honors-level coursework is highly recommended.
GPA: A high GPA is crucial. Most admitted students have an average GPA of 3.7 or higher.

2. Standardized Tests

SAT/ACT: Columbia has adopted a test-optional policy for the 2023-2024 application cycle due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, if submitted, strong SAT or ACT scores are considered.
- SAT: Middle 50% range for admitted students typically falls between 1460-1560.
- ACT: Middle 50% range for admitted students typically falls between 33-35.
English Proficiency Tests: Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
- TOEFL: Recommended score of 100 (Internet-based).
- IELTS: Recommended score of 7.5.
- Duolingo: Recommended score of 125.

3. Application Components

Common Application or Coalition Application: Includes a personal statement and responses to Columbia-specific questions.
Supplementary Materials: Additional letters of recommendation, art portfolios, or research abstracts can be submitted if relevant.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two from teachers and one from a school counselor.
Interview: Optional alumni interviews are available but not guaranteed.

4. Extracurricular Activities

Leadership and Involvement: Demonstrated leadership roles and sustained involvement in extracurricular activities.
Community Service: Commitment to community service and social responsibility.

5. Personal Statement and Essays

Personal Essay: A compelling personal essay that showcases the applicant’s personality, achievements, and aspirations.
Columbia-Specific Questions: Additional short essays on topics related to intellectual pursuits, community contributions, and reasons for choosing Columbia.

Graduate Admissions

1. Academic Excellence

Bachelor’s Degree: A strong academic record from an accredited institution.
GPA: Competitive GPA, typically above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Standardized Tests

GRE/GMAT: Required for most programs, though some have waived this requirement due to the pandemic.
- GRE: Competitive scores vary by program.
- GMAT: Required for MBA programs, with competitive scores typically above 700.
LSAT/MCAT: Required for Law and Medical School applicants.
- LSAT: Competitive scores above 170.
- MCAT: Competitive scores typically above 510.
English Proficiency Tests: Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- TOEFL: Recommended score of 100 (Internet-based).
- IELTS: Recommended score of 7.5.

3. Application Components

Online Application: Submitted through the specific graduate school’s portal.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually three letters from academic or professional references.
Statement of Purpose: An essay outlining academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying to the program.
Resume/CV: Detailing academic, professional, and research experiences.
Supplementary Materials: Portfolio, writing samples, or research abstracts as required by the program.

4. Interviews

Interview: Some programs require an interview as part of the selection process. This can be conducted in person or virtually.

Additional Considerations for International Students

Visa Requirements: International students must obtain an F-1 student visa. Columbia provides support through its International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).
Financial Documentation: Proof of ability to finance education and living expenses in the U.S.
Cultural Fit: Demonstrated ability to adapt and contribute to a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

Columbia University Scholarship Options (For Different Courses)

Columbia University offers a variety of scholarships to support students across different fields of study. These scholarships are designed to alleviate financial burdens and encourage academic excellence. Below is an overview of the scholarship options available for various courses at Columbia University.

Scholarship Name	Eligible Courses	Eligibility Criteria	Benefits
Columbia College Scholarships	Undergraduate (Columbia College)	Based on financial need, academic merit, and extracurricular involvement.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.
School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) Scholarships	Undergraduate (SEAS)	Based on academic merit and financial need.	Full or partial tuition coverage.
Business School Fellowships	MBA (Columbia Business School)	Academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.	Full or partial tuition coverage.
Law School Scholarships	Law (Columbia Law School)	Academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.
Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Scholarships	Medical (Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons)	Academic merit, financial need, and commitment to service in healthcare.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.
Journalism School Scholarships	Journalism (Columbia Journalism School)	Based on academic merit, financial need, and professional achievements.	Full or partial tuition coverage.
Engineering Graduate Fellowships	Graduate (Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science)	Academic excellence and research potential.	Full or partial tuition coverage, research funding.
School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) Fellowships	Graduate (SIPA)	Academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to public service.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) Fellowships	Graduate (GSAS)	Academic merit and research potential.	Full or partial tuition coverage, research funding.
School of Social Work Scholarships	Graduate (School of Social Work)	Academic merit, financial need, and commitment to social work.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.
International Student Scholarships	Various Undergraduate and Graduate Programs	Based on academic merit and financial need for international students.	Full or partial tuition coverage, living expenses.

What Does the Columbia University Admissions Committee Look for in Students?

The admissions committee at Columbia University looks for students who demonstrate:

Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance and intellectual curiosity.
Leadership and Initiative: Evidence of leadership roles and initiative in extracurricular activities.
Unique Perspective: Diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives that contribute to the campus community.
Passion and Commitment: Genuine passion for their chosen field of study and a commitment to making a difference.

Columbia University Rankings

Columbia University is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, known for its academic excellence, research output, and influential alumni. Below is an overview of Columbia University’s rankings across different platforms, highlighting its prestigious standing in various fields.

Ranking Source	2024 Ranking	Criteria	Key Highlights
QS World University Rankings	11	Academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty/student ratio, citations per faculty, international faculty and students.	Recognized for its academic and employer reputation, strong research output, and international diversity.
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings	17	Teaching, research, citations, international outlook, industry income.	High scores in teaching, research, and citations. Excellent international outlook and industry income.
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)	7	Quality of education, quality of faculty, research output, and per capita academic performance.	Consistently in the top 10, with a strong emphasis on research and faculty quality.
US News & World Report Best Global Universities	6	Global research reputation, regional research reputation, publications, conferences, normalized citation impact.	High global research reputation, and significant contributions to publications and conferences.
Guardian University Guide (UK)	N/A	Course satisfaction, teaching quality, feedback, student-to-staff ratio, spending per student, career prospects.	Not applicable for US universities, focuses on UK institutions.
Complete University Guide (UK)	N/A	Entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality, graduate prospects.	Not applicable for US universities, focuses on UK institutions.
Financial Times Global MBA Rankings	8	Alumni outcomes, diversity, research, and teaching quality.	Top-ranked for MBA programs, strong alumni outcomes, high diversity, and quality of teaching and research.
Forbes America’s Top Colleges	3	Alumni salary, student satisfaction, debt, academic success, graduation rate.	High alumni earnings, strong student satisfaction, and academic success.
Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings	5	Resources, engagement, outcomes, environment.	High scores in student outcomes and engagement, excellent resources, and learning environment.
National Universities (US News & World Report)	2	Undergraduate academic reputation, retention and graduation rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving.	Ranked 2nd among national universities, with exceptional academic reputation and high graduation rates.

Columbia University Alumni

Columbia University has produced a distinguished group of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, including politics, science, literature, business, and entertainment. Below are some notable alumni and their accomplishments.

Politics and Government

1. Barack Obama

Education: B.A. in Political Science, 1983
Notable Achievements: 44th President of the United States (2009-2017). Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 and is known for landmark legislation such as the Affordable Care Act.

2. Franklin D. Roosevelt

Education: Attended Columbia Law School (did not graduate)
Notable Achievements: 32nd President of the United States (1933-1945). Roosevelt led the country through the Great Depression and World War II, and was the only U.S. president elected to four terms.

Science and Technology

3. Robert A. Millikan

Education: Ph.D. in Physics, 1895
Notable Achievements: Nobel Prize in Physics in 1923 for his work on the photoelectric effect and measuring the charge of the electron.

4. Richard Axel

Education: M.D., 1967
Notable Achievements: Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2004 for discoveries on the olfactory system.

Literature and Arts

5. Langston Hughes

Education: B.A. in English, 1929
Notable Achievements: A leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes was a prolific writer of poetry, plays, and essays, known for his works highlighting the lives of African Americans.

6. Jack Kerouac

Education: Attended Columbia University
Notable Achievements: A major figure of the Beat Generation, Kerouac authored the famous novel “On the Road.”

Business and Innovation

7. Warren Buffett

Education: M.S. in Economics, 1951
Notable Achievements: Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett is one of the most successful investors in the world and a prominent philanthropist.

8. Henry Kravis

Education: MBA, 1969
Notable Achievements: Co-founder of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR), a global investment firm known for its leveraged buyouts.

Entertainment and Media

9. Jake Gyllenhaal

Education: Attended Columbia University (did not graduate)
Notable Achievements: Acclaimed actor known for roles in “Brokeback Mountain,” “Nightcrawler,” and “Donnie Darko.”

10. Casey Affleck

Education: Attended Columbia University
Notable Achievements: Academy Award-winning actor known for his performances in “Manchester by the Sea” and “Gone Baby Gone.”

Law and Human Rights

11. Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Education: Attended Columbia Law School (LL.B., 1959)
Notable Achievements: Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death in 2020. Ginsburg was a leading advocate for gender equality and women’s rights.

12. Eric Holder

Education: B.A. in American History, 1973; J.D., 1976
Notable Achievements: 82nd Attorney General of the United States (2009-2015), first African American to hold the position.

Contributions to Society

13. Madeleine Albright

Education: B.A. in Political Science, 1959
Notable Achievements: First female U.S. Secretary of State (1997-2001), known for her role in shaping U.S. foreign policy in the late 20th century.

14. Nicholas Murray Butler

Education: B.A., 1882; Ph.D., 1884
Notable Achievements: President of Columbia University for over 40 years, Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 1931 for his work with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Facts and Figures

Nobel Laureates: Columbia University counts over 100 Nobel Prize winners among its alumni, faculty, and researchers.
Pulitzer Prize Winners: Numerous Columbia alumni have been awarded Pulitzer Prizes in various categories, including journalism, literature, and music.