Admission Requirements for Columbia University

Admission at Columbia University's FU Foundation, School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) is highly competitive. Either SAT or the ACT is required. Additionally, SAT Subject Tests are required in the areas: Mathematics (either level I or II), Chemistry or Physics, and Writing. For students taking the new SAT with writing, or the ACT with writing, students are not required to take the SAT II Subject Writing test. In addition to the standardized examination requirements, it is expected that each applicant has had sufficient preparation in high school to maintain competitive standings while enrolled at Columbia. It is recommended that the high school preparation courses include:

• mathematics courses including calculus
• one year of chemistry
• one year of physics
• four years of English
• three to four years of history or social science
• two to three years of a foreign language

Admission Requirement of Columbia University

In addition to coursework requirements, in consideration for admission to SEAS, a written evaluation from a guidance counselor or college advisor is expected. Also expected as part of the applicant's file are two recommendations from teachers of academic subjects, including one from a mathematics teacher. A personal essay is also a required part of the application.

As in most other aspects of life at Columbia, admission is based on balance. Academic standing alone is not the only attribute used to measure a student's potential to be a successful and integral member of SEAS. While Advanced Placement or honors placement in high school are important factors, also weighted is the applicant's extracurricular activities record as well as evidence of special talent. Further, a substantive and sincere interest in engineering should be demonstrated.