Columbia University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Columbia, test-optional does not mean scores are irrelevant: 44% submitted SAT results, and the middle range sits at 1510-1560. If you test, aim for the upper end of that SAT range, or a 34-36 ACT, so your scores support the rest of a highly selective application.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Columbia University facts and stats
Columbia University enrolls about 9,164 undergraduates in an urban campus setting. Columbia has a 98% freshman retention rate, well above the national average of roughly 70%, and a 96% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 6:1.
New York, NY
How do your scores compare at Columbia?
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Key Columbia University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
January 1
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
November 1
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
February 15
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Columbia, aim to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year so the summer before senior year and fall can be used for superscore-focused retakes. For the November 1 Early Decision deadline, an October retake is typically the last fall test whose scores can arrive in time; Regular Decision on January 1 gives you a bit more room for later fall scores.
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What you'll actually pay
Columbia’s tuition and fees are $71,170, and 49% of students receive aid. Submit the FAFSA by the February 15 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.
Columbia’s tuition, fees, room, and board total about $89,972 per year before aid. About 49% of students receive financial aid, with an average package of $78,824, which can significantly reduce the amount families pay. For context, graduates leave with an average debt of $36,069.
Student life at Columbia University
90% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 9% of men join fraternities, and 13% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology
Flushing, NYAcceptance rate: 85%
SAT: 909–1293
ACT: 16–25
Adelphi University
Garden City, NYAcceptance rate: 65.9%
SAT: 1120–1330
ACT: 24–30
Acceptance rate: 77.5%
Acceptance rate: 100%
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