Predictions for Columbia!

qhql2020
Thu, 20 Feb 2020 03:16:46 +0000

If you’re an international student, no chance. That’s not because your scores or ECs are bad, but it’s because there’s less spots and usually with international students top institutions are need-sensitive, not need blind.

If you’re within the US, you have a chance. But that chance is very, very low. You’d be below the 25th percentile in terms of SAT. Your predicted score should be above a 40 if you’re reaching for IBs, but a 39 isn’t anything to drastically ruin your chances.

Without a lot of awards or research publications in the STEM field, it will be extremely hard to gain entry into Columbia. That’s just how it is over there; they like to see a demonstrated interest beyond just the typical honors societies and volunteering.

My biggest concern is that you noted “no financial aid needed.” Columbia does look at applications “holistically,” and there’s a lot of speculation that this means the more income your family has, the better your application’s ECs and scores should be. It’s hard to afford SAT tutors and get that 1550+ when your family income is low, but its easier to get good scores with a higher family income.

Be wary that Columbia will take note of this. They will see that you come from a high-income background, but don’t share the same statistics as other privileged applicants.