Columbia Acceptance Rate Edges Down To 3.85% For Class Of 2028

Columbia’s acceptance rate ticked down slightly for the class of 2028, as it enjoyed its third-largest pool of applicants, though it still fell short of the record low of 3.66% for the class of 2025. 

Last year, the university became the first to announce that its admissions process will be permanently test-optional, unlike some of its peers who are bringing back testing requirements following a brief hiatus amid the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Even if Columbia doesn’t require testing, it always helps to have a good score if you wish to apply to the storied institution in Morningside Heights. And as always, The Ivy Institute can help make your admissions essays shine. 

Admissions Stats

Columbia accepted 2,319 out of 60,248 applicants for the class of 2028, amounting to a 3.85% acceptance rate. That compares to 2,246 accepted students out of 57,129 applicants for the class of 2027, a 3.93% acceptance rate, and 2,253 out of 60,337 applicants for the class of 2026, a 3.73% acceptance rate. 

Total applications were up by several thousand year-over-year for the class of 2028, making it the third-largest applicant pool in Columbia history, as the 60,248 total figure was slightly less than the total number of applicants for the classes of 2026 and 2025, Columbia admissions data shows. 

Applications in the last three admissions cycles were substantially higher than during the pre-Covid years. For Columbia’s class of 2024, which submitted their applications in 2019 to 2020, only a little more than 40,000 students applied. The explosion of growth to 60,551 applicants in the following cycle might have been at least partly because Columbia dropped its standardized testing requirements during the pandemic. 

Last year Columbia became the first Ivy league school to announce that it will be permanently test-optional, at a time that some other Ivies are reinstating testing requirements. 

Class Composition

Columbia’s incoming class includes students from all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, the Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands, as well as 108 countries, making it one of the more international of the Ivy League colleges. 

Around half of admitted students for the class of 2028 were offered need-based financial aid, Columbia said. 

Early Decision

In addition to becoming permanently test-optional, Columbia differentiates itself from some of its peers by maintaining its early decision policy, according to the Columbia Spectator. Early decision has been criticized as favoring wealthier applicants who are willing to make the binding commitment before they are able to know what their financial aid package will be, the Spectator said. 

For the class of 2028 admissions cycle, Columbia had its first increase in early decision applicants in three years, rising almost 5% from the previous cycle, according to the Spectator.

During the early decision round, Columbia accepted 750 students out of 6,009 applications, amounting to an acceptance rate of 12.48%. That substantially higher rate than the less-than-4% accepted overall underscores how Columbia and other universities that offer early decision can give students who pursue that option better odds of being accepted.

Looking Ahead

In today's highly competitive landscape of college admissions, students aiming for top institutions like Columbia University face unprecedented selectivity. Colleges now prioritize holistic admissions, evaluating applicants on extracurricular activities, leadership roles, personal essays, and recommendation letters, beyond just test scores and GPAs. A strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion means that students from varied backgrounds who bring unique perspectives are highly valued. Demonstrated interest has also become crucial, with colleges looking for students who actively engage with their institution through virtual tours, webinars, and other interactions. Furthermore, applicants are encouraged to showcase their unique passions and intellectual curiosities, diving deeply into their areas of interest to stand out.

Authenticity is key, as admissions committees favor genuine, reflective applications over generic ones. The COVID-19 pandemic has also influenced admissions policies, leading to more schools adopting test-optional policies and a greater emphasis on overall profiles rather than standardized test scores alone.

In this competitive environment, college admissions consultants, such as those here at The Ivy Institute, play a vital role. They provide personalized guidance, helping students craft compelling narratives and unique application strategies. Consultants assist with essay development, ensuring that personal essays are authentic and resonate with admissions officers. They also help students identify and pursue meaningful extracurricular activities, manage application timelines, and prepare for interviews. Additionally, consultants aid in developing a balanced college list, ensuring a strategic approach to applications.

The path to securing a spot at a top college requires a well-rounded and genuine application that aligns with current admissions trends. College admissions consultants offer invaluable support, helping students navigate the complex process and enhancing their chances of success in this highly selective environment.