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Columbia University

Columbia University in the City of New York

4.2%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Columbia University: By the Numbers

18.7%

International Undergrads

1,783

International Undergrad Count

13,234

International Graduate Students

39.6%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Columbia University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$16,800/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$67,200

Good news for international applicants: Columbia University is a private university — there's no in-state vs out-of-state tuition difference.

How to Apply to Columbia University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1530+, ACT: 34+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Columbia University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Columbia University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Columbia University's undergraduate student body.

White

31.8%

Black/African American

7.4%

Hispanic/Latino

15.4%

Asian

18.2%

International

18.7%

Career Outcomes for Columbia University International Graduates

International students at Columbia University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$102,491

Median Earnings (10yr)

$88,535

Median Salary (6yr)

$21,500

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Columbia University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

31.8%

Black/African American

7.4%

Hispanic/Latino

15.4%

Asian

18.2%

International

18.7%

Columbia University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Columbia University?

18.7% of Columbia University undergraduates are international students. That's about 1,783 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Columbia University?

International students at Columbia University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $89,472/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Columbia University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Columbia University's overall acceptance rate is 4.2%. International applicants typically face even more competitive admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Columbia University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Columbia University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Columbia University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Columbia University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Columbia University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.