Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia University in the City of New York is a private nonprofit university in New York, NY ranked #12 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A+, enrolling about 8,899 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 4.2%. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Operations Research.
Academically, students benefit from a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, 97.2% first-year retention, and 95.0% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $20,148, about $3,150 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at 9.9%, roughly 75.4 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $88,535. That's about $44,847 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for ambitious students who thrive in an elite, research-powered setting and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Columbia University in the City of New York Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates 95.0% of students within six years and keeps 97.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Columbia University in the City of New York's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $69,045 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,392 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $16,800 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,350 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $86,042 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 22.5% of Columbia University in the City of New York students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $6,342 to $44,695 depending on family income. Use Columbia University in the City of New York's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $15,368/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $44,695/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $88,535
- 10-Year Median Earnings $88,535
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $18,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 76.0%
- Employment Rate 67.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Columbia University in the City of New York graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Columbia University in the City of New York vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Columbia University in the City of New York's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Columbia University in the City of New York's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn $88,535 median, the 9.9% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 730-770
- SAT Math 760-800
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 34-35
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 8,899
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 97.2%
- Graduation Rate 95.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 6:1
How to Get Into Columbia University in the City of New York
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Columbia University in the City of New York requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 4.2%, Columbia University in the City of New York is extremely selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 4.2% acceptance rate, Columbia University in the City of New York is extremely selective. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their class. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1490 and 1570 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Columbia University in the City of New York undergraduates. Computer Science, Economics, and Political Science and Government draw the most students.
- Computer Science 11.6%
- Economics 11.5%
- Political Science and Government 8.7%
- History 5.0%
- Social Sciences, Other 4.9%
- Research and Experimental Psychology 4.4%
See more majors
- English Language and Literature, General 3.4%
- Operations Research 2.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $204,511
- 2. Operations Research $199,865
- 3. Economics $134,398
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Chemical Engineering $120,085
- 5. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $112,032
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $111,133
- 7. Mechanical Engineering $103,801
- 8. Computer Engineering $102,083
- 9. Political Science and Government $98,687
- 10. Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $96,927
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Law (First Professional Degree) $332,787
- 2. Computer Science (Master's Degree) $256,430
- 3. Operations Research (Master's Degree) $255,643
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $254,234
- 5. Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences (Master's Degree) $224,749
- 6. Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $220,853
- 7. Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology (Master's Degree) $187,372
- 8. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degree) $185,150
- 9. Construction Management (Master's Degree) $171,543
- 10. Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degree) $169,317
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $204,511—111% more than Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics ($96,927). Graduate: Law programs lead with $332,787 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Columbia University in the City of New York. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Statistics (Master's Degree, 521 graduates)
- Public Administration (Master's Degree, 458 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 428 graduates)
- Public Health (Master's Degree, 345 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 341 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (61 programs)â–¼
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Political Science and Government
- History
- Social Sciences, Other
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Operations Research
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biology, General
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Philosophy
- Area Studies
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Sociology
- Applied Mathematics
- Sustainability Studies
- Mathematics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Chemical Engineering
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Anthropology
- Statistics
- Physics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Civil Engineering
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Architecture
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other
- Music
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Industrial Engineering
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Chemistry
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Information Science/Studies
- Engineering Physics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Materials Sciences
- Dance
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Engineering, Other
- Science Technologies/Technicians, Other
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Nutrition Sciences
- Engineering Mechanics
- Classical and Ancient Studies
Online Master's Degrees (72 programs)â–¼
- Statistics
- Public Administration
- Public Health
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Journalism
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Real Estate Development
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Economics
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Sustainability Studies
- Communication and Media Studies
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Nutrition Sciences
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- History
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Area Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Construction Management
- Social Sciences, Other
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Biology, General
- Anthropology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Social Sciences, General
- Biotechnology
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Sociology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Physics
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Philosophy
- Engineering Physics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Music
- Mathematics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Architectural History and Criticism
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Education, Other
- Chemistry
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Genetics
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Architecture
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Library Science and Administration
- Computer Software and Media Applications
Online Doctoral Degrees (67 programs)â–¼
- Economics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Chemistry
- English Language and Literature, General
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- History
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Political Science and Government
- Special Education and Teaching
- Music
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Physics
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Operations Research
- Mathematics
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Biology, General
- Statistics
- Social Sciences, General
- Chemical Engineering
- Philosophy
- Nutrition Sciences
- Architecture
- Sustainability Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Genetics
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Public Health
- Anthropology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Engineering Physics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Communication and Media Studies
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Applied Mathematics
- Psychology, Other
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Education, Other
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Education, General
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Behavioral Sciences
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (87 programs)â–¼
- Public Health
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Physics
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Economics
- Biology, General
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- History
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Statistics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Sociology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Operations Research
- Social Work
- Fine and Studio Arts
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Special Education and Teaching
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Mathematics
- Chemical Engineering
- Anthropology
- Journalism
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Psychology, General
- Nutrition Sciences
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Genetics
- Civil Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Philosophy
- Education, Other
- Communication and Media Studies
- Music
- Materials Sciences
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Gerontology
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Education, General
- Area Studies
- Social Sciences, General
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Public Policy Analysis
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Architecture
- Sustainability Studies
- Industrial Engineering
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Behavioral Sciences
- Social Sciences, Other
- Psychology, Other
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Engineering Physics
- Engineering Mechanics
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biotechnology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Architecture and Related Services, Other
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Public Administration
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Demography and Population Studies
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Medicine
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Dentistry
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 8,899
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 50.5%
- Female Students 49.5%
- Caucasian 29.9%
- Asian 18.4%
- Hispanic 16.2%
- Black 7.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients 22.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Columbia University in the City of New York's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Columbia University in the City of New York's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Columbia University in the City of New York support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Columbia University in the City of New York, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Columbia University in the City of New York has a diverse student body, with 29.9% identifying as White. About 22.5% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Columbia University in the City of New York support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Columbia University in the City of New York, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Columbia University in the City of New York ranks among the country's most prestigious, delivering a 9.9% ROI though 146 institutions deliver higher returns at lower costs.
The institution achieves 79.9% four-year and 95.0% six-year completion ratesand maintains 97.2% first-year retention. However, the $20,148 annual net price positions this institution at the higher end of college costs. Post-graduation median earnings of $88,535 reflect strong career outcomes typical of selective institutions.
Value Analysis: Is Columbia University in the City of New York Worth It?
Ranking #12 of 1973, Columbia University in the City of New York delivers a A+ overall grade with 99.4/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total).
For High-Achieving Students: Applicants pursuing careers where institutional prestige and professional networks drive opportunities—such as finance, consulting, law, and academia—benefit most from Columbia University in the City of New York's brand value and alumni connections. The school's reputation provides career acceleration that may justify the premium cost for specific fields.
Financial Aid Recipients: Students receiving substantial need-based aid (bringing actual costs below $10,074 annually) access elite education at a competitive price point. Pell-eligible students often pay less here than at many public universities.
Alternative Considerations: Students in fields where skills and credentials matter more than brand name—particularly STEM, healthcare, and technical fields—should compare outcomes against public research universities offering similar education at 40-60% lower cost. Our data shows 146 institutions deliver superior ROI metrics.
Bottom Line: Columbia University in the City of New York excels in reputation and student experience, reflected in its 97.2% retention rate. However, value-conscious students should weigh the $20,148 annual investment against 146 alternatives offering stronger financial returns. The "best" choice depends on your field, financial situation, and career goals—not rankings alone.
Key Takeaways
- 95.0% six-year graduation rate sits 32.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 97.2% first-year retention is 20.4 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 9.9% return on investment is 75.4 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $88,535 run about 103% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $20,148 is roughly $238 higher than the national median of $19,910.
Helpfulness for Students
- 6:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 97.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 67.1% employment rate within three years sits 1.1 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $20,148 is about $238 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 22.5% trails the national share by 10.9 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Columbia University in the City of New York, a private nonprofit university in New York, NY, secures a A+ grade in our latest review. It stands at #12 among 1973 schools Completion earns A+, Support A, Career Outcomes A, and Affordability B-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
97.2% of learners come back after year one while 95.0% complete the degree within six years. The reported ROI is 9.9%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $20,148 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $86,042.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $65,894 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $18,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 22.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $88,535 six years after enrollment. That sits about 103% above the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 67.1% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 9.9%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
4.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Columbia University in the City of New York admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address New York, NY 10027
- Website www.columbia.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$13.28B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate0.9%