Admissions Toolkit
For Prospective Students
Read detailed instructions regarding letters of recommendation, transcripts, and standardized tests.
A nonrefundable fee of $120 will be required for the 2026 online application.
In select instances, students may be permitted to register as Exchange Scholars, International Exchange Scholars, Non-Degree Special International Students, or Visiting PhD Scholars.
View useful information about application policies and procedures, the application fee, standardized tests, supporting materials, and more.
See the fall, spring, and summer deadlines for select MA, PhD, and dual-degree programs.
Columbia University requires all incoming students to complete a credentials verification process before enrollment. The process includes verification of letters of reference and of all post-secondary transcripts and degrees awarded.
Transfer credit is relevant coursework completed before a student’s enrollment in a GSAS degree program that the student submits in partial fulfillment of specific academic requirements for the degree.
Current Columbia undergraduates may apply to receive a deferred admission decision to the MA program of their choice during their junior or senior year.
The Graduate School welcomes applications for admission from international applicants.
We encourage all international applicants to submit their admissions application as early as possible to allow enough time to process their applications.
For Admitted Students
Congratulations on your acceptance, and welcome to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences!
Columbia University requires all incoming students to complete a credentials verification process before enrollment. The process includes verification of letters of reference and of all post-secondary transcripts and degrees awarded.
Will you be starting your studies at GSAS this fall? After you have accepted the offer of admission, be sure to complete this checklist to begin your transition to Columbia.
The ISSO coordinates services for the international students, scholars, interns, and family members who come to Columbia.
Upon accepting the offer of admission, all enrolling students are required to submit the Acceptance Attestation Form. PhD students are required to submit the online response form. MA students are required to submit a non-refundable tuition deposit.
If extraordinary circumstances will prevent you from matriculating, you may submit a request to defer your enrollment.
View detailed information about housing for MA and PhD students, as well as additional housing resources.
Students are billed for tuition, fees, and other charges at the start of each term.