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Summer 2024 applications are now open.

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Living on Campus

Our program combines rigorous coursework, cultural and social engagement, a residential community, and the opportunity to live in New York City on Columbia University’s tranquil 36-acre enclosed campus. More than half of program participants live on campus. The residential student community is over 60% international, with students hailing from 70. countries and 45 U.S. states.

Exploring NYC

Neighborhood Tours

Every weekend we will take a tour to eat and explore in one of three notable NYC neighborhoods: SoHo, Lower East Side, and Chelsea.

Broadway Shows

No New York City experience is complete without seeing a show on Broadway! Students will be able to purchase tickets for a variety of Broadway shows through our Student Services Office. Broadway show options are often changing. Previously, our programs have featured 'The Lion King' and 'Wicked'.

Special Excursions

There is so much to see in New York City—let us show you around! We will provide a variety of optional excursions on the weekends that get students off campus and into the heart of the city. Remember: at Columbia, it’s all just outside your door.

Living on Campus

More than half of program participants live on campus. The residential student community is over 60% international, with students hailing from 70 countries and 45 U.S. states.

Learn More

Safety and Supervision

We are committed to providing a learning environment that is at once unforgettably engaging and undoubtedly safe for all students, balancing the rights of the individual with the safety of all. Our Department of Public Safety provides many services, such as Columbia University EMS, 24-hr guard booths, safety escort programs, and more. We have carefully designed our community guidelines to help share awareness of potentially unsafe situations, how to remain safe, and resources available. To make certain that all of our students are familiar with these guidelines, we require students and their parent(s) or guardian(s) to review all university and program policies and sign the community agreement prior to attending any pre-college program. 

Special Opportunities

Columbia has exceptional instructors, and students have the chance to learn even more from them outside the classroom. In our Faculty Lecture Series, instructors will speak on a range of interesting topics based on their expertise, such as “The Art of Negotiation,” or “Selling Ketchup Popsicles to People in White Gloves: How to Market Anything to Anyone.” Students can also perfect their essay skills in writing workshops and limited individual writing sessions.

Explore Our Pre-College Programs

The best way to prepare for college is the way that works best for you. That’s why we offer multiple programs: learn in person or online, during the school year or summertime.

Find Your Program