Frequently Asked Questions

Program costs can be found in the Program Costs section of the website.

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available to residents of New York City who participate in the NYC Commuter Summer 3-Week program. Additional information, including eligibility requirements, can be found on the NYC Commuter Summer 3-Week cost page.

Students should speak with their school counselor for information on how to search for financial aid and scholarship opportunities from outside sources and organizations.

In addition, we work with many local NGOs and public schools to offer scholarships to students residing in NYC. If you work with a local NGO or public school and are interested in learning more, please contact hsp-collaborator [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (hsp-collaborator[at]columbia[dot]edu). 

Pre-College students are not required to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination. However, we strongly recommend that students follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination which recommend that everyone be up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including booster doses.

Keep up to date with university communications related to COVID-19 here.

Qualified applicants are welcome to apply to both our NYC Summer and College Edge programs. However, students are only allowed to participate in one program per summer.

Qualified applicants are welcome to apply to and enroll in multiple programs both online and on campus in the summer as long as the sessions do not overlap. 

Students interested in studying online and on-campus must first submit an on-campus application and reach out to the Office of Admissions for further instructions about submitting a second application for the online program.

Columbia University's Programs for High School Students are distinct from Columbia University's undergraduate school, Columbia College. Before applying to one of the high school programs, students should understand that their participation will have no influence on any ongoing or future application and admissions processes at Columbia College.

The Pre-College Programs have no formal dress code. We recommend that students wear cool, comfortable clothing.

For most curricular options in the academic programs, students should budget approximately $50 for expenses such as textbooks and field trip-related costs. Some courses also require laptops or equipment that should be purchased before the start of class; these requirements are listed toward the bottom of the pertinent course descriptions.

Dining is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday through Friday for students with a meal plan. The dining hall provides food options for a variety of diets. Students with medically related special dietary needs can work with a campus dietician to ensure their meal needs are met.

There are also many affordable dining options around campus.

Yes. All admitted students must provide documentation as part of the enrollment process that they will live at a residence that includes direct adult supervision in the form of family members or family friends who will live in the same residence. Students must attest that they will not take unsupervised housing in the form of hotel rooms, Airbnb rentals, hostels or other such accommodation. The required information will be requested via email in the weeks before the student's arrival.

Participation in the Summer Program for High School Students does not constitute the basis for securing a student visa. Past participants have had success in obtaining Visitor (B) visas to participate in our program because the program comprises a short recreational course of study and is not for credit toward a degree or academic certification. Information on the U.S. Department of State’s policy on short periods of recreational study is available here. 

Students who successfully complete the program receive official Columbia University Certification of Participation and an evaluation letter from their instructors. Instructors comment candidly and constructively on students’ performance, as demonstrated by their in-class participation and submitted work. Students are evaluated on the basis of the effort they put in, their progress over the duration of the class, and their potential for future work in the pertinent field and in college. Students may use these documents to demonstrate participation in the program. Additional documentation of participation is not provided.

The admissions committee seeks out academically exceptional students who are eager to contribute original ideas and a spirit of intellectual curiosity to a community of highly motivated learners.

Though there are no set minimum requirements such as a particular GPA, the application materials should establish that the student has the necessary academic background and level of ability, motivation, and maturity necessary for the program. Students must present evidence of the completion of any particular prerequisites identified in the individual program descriptions to be eligible to take courses with prerequisites.

Yes, the summer program is open to students applying during their senior year of high school for participation just after graduating.

No. No substitutions are accepted for the letter of recommendation. The perspective of a teacher is valuable in making admissions decisions.

We do not ask for these scores as part of the application. If they are available, we will consider them, particularly in the case of students applying to study science or math.

Yes, returning students must reapply for admission. Please apply using the same application account and indicate that you are a past participant on the application. This will allow you to complete a shortened application. 

If a student previously participated in an online program, and they are now applying to an in-person program, they are now required to submit a school counselor recommendation from their school counselor, academic advisor, principal or headmaster

Students may participate in multiple sessions. Students wishing to attend multiple sessions within one modality (e.g. commuter) may do so with one application. Students wishing to attend a combination of residential, commuter, or online sessions must submit an additional application.

Please submit your initial application and email hsp-apply [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu for an application fee waiver code to be applied to your second application. We will clone your application materials so all you will need to do for the second application is select your second program of interest and submit.

Please review the possible session combinations to determine your desired program options. Summer 2024 session dates will be posted in late November.

You may take only one curricular option per session with the exception of the 2-Week Online Summer program in which you may enroll in two classes per session.

It normally takes three to five weeks to receive a decision after all application materials have been received.

You will receive instructional emails after submitting your enrollment form and committing to attend the program, but no mailings will be sent via postal mail.

The academic recommendation can come from the student's primary instructor. If the instructor is a parent or legal guardian, their email address must match the email address provided in the parent information section of the application.

We do not require English language proficiency test scores; however, students should be completely fluent in English. Applicants who are not native English language speakers should objectively assess their English comprehension, writing, and speaking skills.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.

Students must have permanent residency in New York City (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, or Queens) and participate in the NYC Commuter Summer Program.

If an applicant meets the program and residency qualifications, they are eligible to submit a formal financial aid application via the online application portal. Students who do not meet the minimum qualifications will not have access to the financial aid application.

Applicants who receive this need-based award may not combine it with additional financial aid granted through the School of Professional Studies (SPS) or a partner organization. Dependents of a Columbia University employee who are eligible for the Columbia University officer reduced price do not qualify for this need-based scholarship.

If granted aid, an award equal to 50% of the cost of the program will be applied directly to your student account. Please note, financial aid is only available to students participating in the 3-Week NYC Commuter Summer Program. The award cannot be transferred to any other program.

If admitted, participants will be required to submit a nonrefundable deposit to confirm their enrollment in the program and secure their awarded aid.

For additional details regarding program costs, please refer to the Program Costs section of the website.

All applications require formal documentation of their parent(s)/legal guardian(s) most recent tax return and W-2. Documentation for all parent(s)/legal guardian(s), regardless of marital status, is required. Both the custodial and non-custodial parent/legal guardian must submit the required materials. If either individual has remarried, the income from the new family unit must be reported in full. When reviewing for aid, information submitted from all parties will be considered. Applicants will also be required to answer additional supplementary questions related to income and household information.

Applications will be considered incomplete if the required information is not received.

Scholarship awards may be subject to income tax. If awarded aid, please consult with the IRS or your tax advisor to determine the taxability of your scholarship and how such amounts may affect the amount for your education tax credit or deduction. Award recipients will receive Form 1098-T, which will include scholarships received from the University.

Upon admission to the program, applicants will receive a decision regarding their financial aid application. After reviewing the decision, applicants will have fifteen days to confirm their enrollment in the program and secure their awarded aid.

Yes, dependents of eligible, full-time, active Columbia University officers (Columbia University, Barnard College, Teachers College professional staff, CUIMC, and Jewish Theological Seminary) are eligible to receive a special rate. The rate for students enrolling in the NYC Commuter Summer program is equal to 50% of the cost, excluding fees. The rate for students enrolling in the NYC Residential Summer program is equal to 75% of the cost , excluding fees. Fees, such as those for activities, health services, technology, and specific courses do not qualify for the special rate. Program costs can be found in the Program Costs section of the website.

Applicants can indicate their dependent status during the online application process. Once the admission offer is accepted and the student registers for class, the special rate will be applied directly to their account.

For additional information, please email hsp [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (hsp[at]columbia[dot]edu).

Each student in the NYC Residential and Commuter Summer programs chooses just one curricular option in any given 3-week or 1-week session. Some curricular options consist of two or more related classes.

Yes.

Most curricular options meet for two hours each morning and two hours every afternoon, Monday through Friday, but there are exceptions; see individual course pages for specific meeting times. Students are normally given a ten-minute break halfway through each class meeting.

The hours between the morning and afternoon meetings are devoted to lunch, relaxation, use of the gym, and various co- and extracurricular activities.

They are intended for bright, high-achieving high school students who are proficient in English and want to work hard, be challenged, and think independently. Students are not expected to master all the concepts to which they are exposed; they are evaluated on the basis of how much effort they put in and how much progress they make, not on whether they have understood all the material.

Classes are experiential and collaborative. While course instructors do provide substantive instruction, students learn largely by engaging directly with the subject matter through activities such as class discussions, debates, simulations, case studies, meetings with guest speakers, assigned readings, and individual and group projects. Participants are expected to participate actively in class and may be required to prepare in-class presentations.

Whenever possible, we try to take advantage of the resources of New York City and Columbia University by means of field trips, guest speakers, and the use of University facilities. See individual course descriptions for details.

Students are encouraged to think independently, critically, and creatively. Instructors guide them in learning how to do so. Even more important than the particular knowledge participants gain in any of these classes is the ability to think with both open-mindedness and precision about complex and challenging material. We believe that this skill will be essential to them not only in their academic careers but also in their lives as world citizens and future leaders.

Attendance is taken at each morning and afternoon class. Parents/guardians of commuter students should notify the Student Services Office of their child’s absences by sending a note in advance or by telephoning the Student Services Office at 212-853-7400. Parents/guardians of residential students will be contacted if their student is absent from class because of illness or another issue. The Pre-College Program staff will make every effort to keep parents informed; however, it is the responsibility of the parents to set attendance expectations with their students. 

Class attendance is critical to the successful completion of the program. Students who miss more than two classes will not be eligible for the program certification, and multiple absences will be noted in the evaluation letter. Students who are seeking an exception should reach out to the Student Services Office.

While much of the required work in the program is done in class with instructor guidance, students should expect, on average, an hour or two of homework per night.

For most curricular options, students should budget approximately $50 for expenses such as textbooks and field trip related costs. Some courses also require laptops or equipment that should be purchased before the start of class; these requirements are listed toward the bottom of the pertinent course pages.

Classes are taught by scholars and practitioners who are experts in their fields, have a passion and demonstrated an aptitude for teaching, and have undergone background checks and University Protection of Minors training.

Instructor biographies appear at the bottom of each course page, though please note that (a) not all instructors listed for a course teach all sections of that course, (b) students cannot request particular instructors or sections, and (c) we occasionally have to make staffing changes because of availability issues.

Courses in the summer programs do not carry college credit. Upon successful completion, participants receive, in addition to an evaluation letter, a Columbia University Certification of Participation

Students seeking to earn college credit may be interested in our College Edge programs, in which they can take undergraduate classes alongside college students. 

Grades are not assigned. Rather, upon successful participation, students receive official Columbia University Certifications of Participation and evaluation letters from their instructors. Instructors comment candidly and constructively on students’ performance, as demonstrated by their in-class participation and submitted work. Students are evaluated on the basis of the effort they put in, their progress over the duration of the class, and their potential for future work in the pertinent field and in college.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.

Students in the program have access to Columbia University’s classrooms, laboratories, on-campus cafés, libraries, computer labs, fitness center, and student activities center, to name a few. Additional details can be found on the Campus Resource page.

Most of the campus is wireless. Students have access to computer clusters and laboratories throughout the campus. These facilities range from informational kiosks to high-end workstations to walk-in consulting centers.

Some courses require students to bring laptops to class. Please see the individual course description pages for laptop requirements for your curricular option.

The University provides a full range of services and accommodations to assist students with disabilities. Upon acceptance into the program, students seeking assistance should contact the Disability Services Office. Only students who identify their disabilities well in advance can be assured of accommodation upon their arrival on campus.

There are ATMs on campus in Lerner Student Center. They accept all major ATM cards. ATMs for many major American banks can be found along Broadway, within a few blocks of the campus.

There are a number of pianos on campus that can be used by students on an informal basis. Private practice rooms are not available to students in the program.

Students who are 16 years old by the move-in date of the NYC Residential Summer program qualify automatically for residential status. You can find the move-in dates here.

If you will be under 16 by the move-in date, you are not permitted to live on campus. You may apply as a commuter student or apply to the Online Summer program.

Residential housing is not available for the College Edge program. Students must arrange for their own housing. Please note that students under the age of 18 may be required to reside with a parent or guardian.

Yes. Please be advised that residential students must adhere to all rules and policies, including those pertaining to staying within the campus boundaries when unsupervised, even if they are NYC residents.

It is not possible to check in early or check out late. It is possible for a student to leave the night before check-out; the student would follow the standard overnight sign-out procedure. Please note that residential students leaving early would miss end-of-program events.

Some of the dormitories are not centrally air-conditioned. Where there is no central air conditioning, bedrooms have window air conditioner units, included in the housing fee.

Yes. During the week students must be in their suites, or on their designated floors, by 11 p.m. and on the weekend by 12 midnight, unless they are participating in a supervised activity. Curfew is strictly observed and students who do not abide by the curfew will be dismissed from the program.

Yes, there is a guard on duty 24 hours per day. No one is allowed entry to the dormitory without a proper Columbia ID card or clearance. In dorms with suite housing, suite doors are kept locked at all times. In the corridor-style dorms, bedroom doors are kept locked. Students are issued suite keys and room keys upon checking in.

Non-residential Summer Program students are not allowed into the dorms. Parents/guardians are allowed into the dorms only during check-in and check-out, when they are helping the students move.

Meals for students in the NYC Residential Summer are served three times a day according to the following schedule:
Breakfast: 7:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Lunch: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Dinner: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The meal plan consists of a wide variety of food served cafeteria-style and includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Kosher and halal meal plans are available. Upon acceptance to the program, residential students are given the opportunity to select a kosher or halal meal plan.

Though dorm rooms do not come equipped with phones, each floor has a hall phone that can make outgoing calls in the New York City area; the hall phone cannot receive calls.

Yes, all of these items will be supplied.

No, transportation to and from airports is up to the student. Taxis from any of the three local airports cost between forty and sixty dollars.

Program costs can be found on the Program Costs portion of our website.

We do not offer financial aid for the Academic Year Program. We encourage students to reach out to their school counselors for information regarding any potential sources of external funding. 

Yes, dependents of eligible, full-time, active Columbia University officers (Columbia University, Barnard College, Teachers College professional staff, CUIMC, and Jewish Theological Seminary) are eligible to receive a special rate equal to 50% of the cost, excluding fees. Fees, such as those for activities, health services, technology, and specific courses do not qualify for the special rate. Program costs can be found in the Program Costs section of the website.

Applicants can indicate their dependent status during the online application process. Once the admission offer is accepted and the student registers for class, the special rate will be applied directly to their account.

For additional information, please email hsp-ayi [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (hsp-ayi[at]columbia[dot]edu).

Columbia University's Pre-College Programs are distinct from Columbia University's undergraduate school, Columbia College. Before applying to one of the pre-college programs, students should understand that their participation will have no greater influence than any other similar extracurricular activity on any ongoing or future application and admissions processes at Columbia College.

Classes are held online using Zoom for the Online Summer program. 

To successfully participate in your course, you will need:

Computer

A computer that is capable of running the latest versions of browsers, plug-ins, and recent software, including tools that will keep the system free of viruses and spyware.

Internet Connection

A high-speed, hard-wired Internet connection (Ethernet) that will support streaming/interactive audio and video. Weak Wi-Fi may cause issues such as latency, choppy audio, and loss of connection.

Webcam

A webcam will be required for your daily participation in class. If your computer does not have a built-in camera, you can purchase a USB-based webcam to affix to the top of your computer.

Headset with Microphone

While many laptops come with built-in mics and speakers, we highly recommend that you use a USB-based headset with a microphone, such as the Logitech H390 USB Computer Headset. If you are using a laptop with a built-in microphone, please use headphones or earbuds during class sessions to avoid echo or feedback. Listening through speakers may cause echo that disrupts the entire class.

Zoom Installation

Please be sure you have administrative permission to install Zoom and other technologies on your computer.

Designated Learning Space

Students should choose a well-lit, distraction-free learning space appropriate for interacting with faculty and fellow students on camera.

There is no dress code for the Academic Year Weekend Program. We advise students to dress as if they were attending class in-person.

Students should budget approximately $50 for books and course materials. Some classes may require additional materials.

Detailed information regarding course-specific materials can be found on the individual course pages.

Yes. For more information about upcoming information sessions, please visit the Events page.

To secure a place in the program, a $500.00 nonrefundable deposit, credited toward the cost of the program, is due upon notification of acceptance to the program. 

For students studying in Fall 2023, the remaining balance must be paid by September 8. For students enrolling after September 8, the program fee must be paid within two days of course registration. For students studying in Spring 2024, the remaining balance must be paid by January 12. For students enrolling after January 12, the program fee must be paid within two days of course registration.

Payment instructions are provided in the admitted student portal and will also be emailed to students and parents prior to the payment due date.

Students who successfully complete the program receive official Columbia University Certification of Participation and an evaluation letter from their instructors. Instructors comment candidly and constructively on students’ performance, as demonstrated by their in-class participation and submitted work. Students are evaluated on the basis of the effort they put in, their progress over the duration of the class, and their potential for future work in the pertinent field and in college. Students may use these documents to demonstrate participation in the program. Additional documentation of participation is not provided.

The admissions committee seeks out academically exceptional students who are eager to contribute original ideas and a spirit of intellectual curiosity to a community of highly motivated learners.

Though there are no set minimum requirements such as a particular GPA, the application materials should establish that the student has the necessary academic background and level of ability, motivation, and maturity necessary for the program. Students must present evidence of the completion of any particular prerequisites identified in the individual program descriptions to be eligible to take courses with prerequisites.

No substitutions are accepted for the letter of recommendation. The perspective of a teacher is valuable in making admissions decisions.

We do not ask for these scores as part of the application.

Yes, returning students must reapply for admission. Please apply using the same application account and indicate that you are a past participant on the application. This will allow you to complete a shortened application. 

Only applications that are complete with all required materials will be reviewed. Notification of an admissions decision typically takes one to two weeks after an application is complete. We encourage you to check your application status online often to ensure all materials are in. You may re-notify your recommender if your recommendation is still missing from your checklist.

You will receive instructional emails after submitting your enrollment form and committing to attend the program. These communications will contain important details about next steps so please check your email often. We will not send mailings via postal mail.

The academic recommendation can come from the student's primary instructor. If the instructor is a parent or legal guardian, their email address must match the email address provided in the parent information section of the application.

We do not require English language proficiency test scores; however, students should be completely fluent in English. Applicants who are not native English language speakers should objectively assess their English comprehension, writing, and speaking skills.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.

While students may take up to four courses in the Academic Year Weekend program, we recommend between 1-3 courses per term at the most. Please be advised that program fee is assessed per course.

Courses for the Academic Year Weekend program meet for two hours at a time on either Saturday or Sunday. Classes are available in either morning (10 a.m. to 12 p.m., EST), afternoon (1 p.m. to 3 p.m., EST), or evening (8 p.m. to 10 p.m. EST) sessions.

They are intended for bright, high-achieving high school students who are proficient in English and want to work hard, be challenged, and think independently. Students are not expected to master all the concepts to which they are exposed; they are evaluated on the basis of how much effort they put in and how much progress they make, not on whether they have understood all the material. 

Classes are experiential and collaborative. While course instructors provide substantive instruction, students also learn by engaging directly with the subject matter through activities such as class discussions, debates, simulations, case studies, meetings with guest speakers, assigned readings, and individual and group projects. Participants are expected to participate actively in class and may be required to prepare in-class presentations.

Students are encouraged to think independently, logically, critically, and creatively. Instructors guide them in learning how to do so. Even more important than the particular knowledge participants gain in these classes is the ability to think with both open-mindedness and precision about complex material. We believe that this skill will be essential to them not only in their academic careers but also in their lives as world citizens and future leaders.

Attendance is taken at each morning and afternoon class. Parents/guardians of commuter students should notify the Student Services Office of their child’s absences by sending a note in advance or by telephoning the Student Services Office at 212-853-7400. Parents/guardians of residential students will be contacted if their student is absent from class because of illness or another issue. The Pre-College Program staff will make every effort to keep parents informed; however, it is the responsibility of the parents to set attendance expectations with their students. 

Class attendance is critical to the successful completion of the program. Students who miss more than two classes will not be eligible for the program certification, and multiple absences will be noted in the evaluation letter. Students who are seeking an exception should reach out to the Student Services Office.

The amount of homework varies from one class to another. Students should expect, on average, one to two hours of homework per week. Courses require asynchronous work between meetings.

Students should budget approximately $50 for books and course materials. Some classes may require additional materials. Please see the course listings for details.

Classes are taught by scholars and practitioners who are experts in their fields, have a passion and demonstrated aptitude for teaching, and have undergone background checks and University Protection of Minors training.

Instructor biographies appear at the bottom of each course page, though please note that (a) not all instructors listed for a course teach all sections of that course, (b) students cannot request particular instructors or sections, and (c) we must occasionally make staffing changes due to issues of availability.

Courses in the program do not earn college credit. Upon successful completion, participants receive a personal evaluation letter from the instructor and a Columbia University Certification of Participation.

Students seeking to earn college credit may be interested in our College Edge program, in which they can take actual undergraduate classes alongside college students.

Grades are not assigned. Rather, upon successful participation in the program, students receive official Columbia University Certifications of Participation and written evaluations from their instructor. Instructors comment candidly and constructively on students’ performance, as demonstrated by their in-class participation and submitted work. Students are evaluated on the basis of the effort they put in, their progress over the duration of the class, and their potential for future work in the pertinent field and in college.

Students seeking to earn college credit may be interested in our College Edge program, in which they can take actual undergraduate classes alongside college students.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.

Prior to the start of the program and before each class, we recommend all students check to ensure they have a secure internet connection and that their webcam, headset, and microphone are all performing properly. If you experience a technical issue while attending class, you will be able to reach out to your Course Facilitator who will help troubleshoot the issue.

The University provides a full range of services and accommodations to assist students with disabilities. Upon acceptance into the program, students seeking assistance should contact the Disability Services Office. Only students who identify their disabilities well in advance can be assured of accommodation upon the start of the program.

Students are expected to be in class by their scheduled times. We advise students to log into their class 10 minutes before the start of class to ensure their technology is running correctly.

The Academic Year Weekend Program offers co-curricular and College Life events and activities. Co-curricular events are those meant to expand students' intellectual experiences. Such activities would include lectures on the college application process and special lectures on topics of current interest.

College Life activities are created and hosted by current college undergraduates. Student life events feature seminars and student clubs introduce students to themes around college life and healthy community engagement.

We have chosen course hours that allow students across the world to participate. Please note, all courses are taught synchronously, which requires students to attend class during the set meeting hours indicated on the individual course description pages. Please see the course listings for details. All times listed are in NYC time (EST).

When selecting a curricular option, we encourage students to determine if the meeting hours of that particular course are feasible for the time zone in which the student lives. If the assigned meeting times of a particular course do not match well to the student's needs, we recommend students consider curricular options that may meet at a more convenient time.

Summer program courses are created by Columbia's School for Professional Studies specifically for high school students. All participants are in high school or recently graduated. These courses do not earn college credit. Upon successful completion of the Summer Program, students receive a Certification of Participation and a personalized evaluation letter from their instructor.

College Edge classes are Columbia undergraduate courses found in the Columbia course catalog. Students will be in class with college students, not high school students. These courses earn Columbia University undergraduate credits, and students can request a Columbia transcript with their final grade(s).

College Edge students should plan to spend two to three hours of study outside class for every hour spent in class. A three-hour class session could require up to nine hours of preparation.

College Edge courses earn Columbia University undergraduate credits, and students can request a Columbia transcript with their final grade(s).

College Edge courses earn Columbia University undergraduate credits, and students can request a Columbia transcript with their final grade(s). Participation in College Edge does not guarantee admission to Columbia University. Please contact your undergraduate institution and check if College Edge credits would be accepted.

The transferability of credits is determined by the institution receiving the credits, not the institution where the credits are earned. College Edge students should consult their intended undergraduate institution regarding the transfer of college credits.

Students may not receive more than 12 points of credit during the fall or spring semester. Students may not enroll in more than 6 credit points during a summer session.

A complete list of program costs can be found on the Program Costs portion of our website.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide College Edge students with any financial assistance or scholarships. To learn about outside opportunities for financial assistance, we advise students to speak with their school counselor for information on how to search for financial aid and scholarship opportunities from outside sources and organizations.

Dependents of Columbia employees are not eligible to receive a sprecial rate for the College Edge program. To learn about outside opportunities for financial assistance, we advise students to speak with their school counselor for information on how to search for financial aid and scholarship opportunities from outside sources and organizations.

Columbia University's Pre-College Programs are distinct from Columbia University's undergraduate school, Columbia College. Before applying to one of the pre-college programs, students should understand that their participation will have no greater influence than any other similar extracurricular activity on any ongoing or future application and admissions processes at Columbia College.

College Edge is an in-person, commuter program. Students must attend all classes on our Morningside campus. Transportation and housing are not provided.

Please refer to the Columbia University Directory of Courses for the building and room location of your courses.

Students may participate in Fall, Spring, or Summer. 

The summer term offers two 6-week sessions, Summer Session A and Summer Session B. For students hoping to participate in both sessions, they must apply to Summer Session AB. Summer 2024 session dates will be posted in late November.

No. College Edge is an in-person, commuter program. Students must attend all classes on our Morningside campus. Transportation and housing are not provided..

For more information about upcoming information sessions, please visit the Events page.

Residential housing is not available. Students must arrange for their own housing. Please note that students under the age of 18 may be required to reside with a parent or guardian.

No. Since these are distinct programs, you must submit a new application if you wish to be considered for the College Edge program. You may use many of the materials required by the Summer Program, but you will also have to submit new and/or additional materials for the College Edge application.

This is a rigorous program. Students are expected to be both academically and socially prepared for college-level courses with Columbia undergraduate students. We review all aspects of your application in rendering a decision.

Students currently in grade 10 may apply to participate the summer following grade 10. Fall and spring programs are only open to students in grades 11 or 12.

Qualified applicants are welcome to apply to both our Summer Program and College Edge programs. However, students are only allowed to participate in one program per summer.

Once you apply and are admitted, your acceptance is applicable for three terms, with subsequent terms contingent upon successful completion of prior terms. Students may not exceed a total of 30 credits during that time. You will only need to update your transcripts.

The academic recommendation can come from the student's primary instructor. If the instructor is a parent or legal guardian, their email address must match the email address provided in the parent information section of the application.

No, your recommendations, school profile, and official transcript(s) can be submitted after you have formally submitted your part of the application.

Please click on this link for application details.

No. Test scores will not be considered in the application review. The only exception is if a school profile is unavailable. If that is the case, students should provide official PSAT, SAT, or ACT test scores.

PDF downloads of unofficial transcripts from student portals can be accepted only if they clearly show your full name, your school’s name, the full name of all courses taken, and all grades achieved in those courses. Official transcripts contain all of the same information as required by an unofficial transcript but, in addition, must be sent electronically from their school to the Office of Admissions. Official transcripts must be emailed by a school administrator to sps-collegeedge [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu or mailed in a sealed envelope from the school to our address listed on the Apply page.

Program costs can be found on the Program Cost section of the website.

Individual applications for financial aid are not accepted. Students should speak with their school counselor for information on how to search for financial aid and scholarship opportunities from outside sources and organizations.

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available to residents of New York City who participate as commuters in the Summer (3-Week) Program.

Yes, dependents of eligible, full-time, active Columbia University officers (Columbia University, Barnard College, Teachers College professional staff, CUIMC, and Jewish Theological Seminary) are eligible to receive a special rate equal to 50% of the cost, excluding fees. Fees, such as those for activities, health services, technology, and specific courses do not qualify for the special rate. Program costs can be found in the Program Costs section of the website.

Applicants can indicate their dependent status during the online application process. Once the admission offer is accepted and the student registers for class, the special rate will be applied directly to their account.

For additional information, please email hsp [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (hsp[at]columbia[dot]edu)
 

Columbia University's Programs for High School Students are distinct from Columbia University's undergraduate school, Columbia College. Before applying to one of the high school programs, students should understand that their participation will have no influence on any ongoing or future application and admissions processes at Columbia College.

Classes are held online using Zoom.

To successfully participate in your course, you will need:

Computer

A computer that is capable of running the latest versions of browsers, plug-ins, and recent software, including tools that will keep the system free of viruses and spyware.

Internet Connection

A high-speed, hard-wired Internet connection (Ethernet) that will support streaming/interactive audio and video. Weak Wi-Fi may cause issues such as latency, choppy audio, and loss of connection.

Webcam

A webcam will be required for your daily participation in class. If your computer does not have a built- in camera, you can purchase a USB-based webcam to affix to the top of your computer.

Headset with Microphone

While many laptops come with built-in mics and speakers, we highly recommend that you use a USB-based headset with a microphone, such as the Logitech H390 USB Computer Headset. If you are using a laptop with a built-in microphone, please use headphones or earbuds during class sessions to avoid echo or feedback. Listening through speakers may cause echo that disrupts the entire class.

Zoom Installation

Please be sure you have administrative permission to install Zoom and other technologies on your computer.

Designated Learning Space

Students should choose a well-lit, distraction-free learning space appropriate for interacting with faculty and fellow students on camera.

There is no dress code for the Online Program. We advise students to dress as if they were attending class in person.

For most curricular options, students should budget approximately $50 for expenses such as textbooks and course materials. Some courses also require equipment or software that should be purchased before the start of class; these requirements are listed on the Program Costs page, under Additional Course Fees.

Yes. For more information about upcoming information sessions, please visit the Events page.

The admissions committee seeks out academically exceptional students who are eager to contribute original ideas and a spirit of intellectual curiosity to a community of highly motivated learners.

Though there are no set minimum requirements such as a particular GPA, the application materials should establish that the student has the necessary academic background and level of ability, motivation, and maturity necessary for the program. Students must present evidence of the completion of any particular prerequisites identified in the individual program descriptions to be eligible to take courses with prerequisites.

Yes, the summer program is open to students applying during their senior year of high school for participation just after graduating.

No. No substitutions are accepted for the letter of recommendation. The perspective of a teacher is valuable in making admissions decisions.

We do not ask for these scores as part of the application. If they are available, we will consider them, particularly in the case of students applying to study science or math.

Yes, returning students must reapply for admission. Please apply using the same application account and indicate that you are a past participant on the application. This will allow you to complete a shortened application.

Students may participate in multiple sessions. Students wishing to attend multiple sessions within one modality (e.g. online) may do so with one application. Students wishing to attend a combination of residential, commuter, or online sessions must submit an additional application.

Please submit your initial application and email hsp-apply [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu for an application fee waiver code to be applied to your second application. We will clone your application materials so all you will need to do for the second application is select your second program of interest and submit.

Please review the possible session combinations to determine your desired program options. Summer 2024 session dates will be posted in late November.

Students participating in Session A or B of the Online Summer program may take up to two courses. All other program options have a limit of one course per session.  

It normally takes three to five weeks to receive a decision after all application materials have been received.

You will receive instructional emails after submitting your enrollment form and committing to attend the program, but no mailings will be sent via postal mail.

The academic recommendation can come from the student's primary instructor. If the instructor is a parent or legal guardian, their email address must match the email address provided in the parent information section of the application.

We do not require English language proficiency test scores; however, students should be completely fluent in English. Applicants who are not native English language speakers should objectively assess their English comprehension, writing, and speaking skills.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.

Students in the 2-week program can enroll in up to two curricular options, while students in the 1-week online program can only register for 1. Some curricular options consist of two or more related classes (see individual class descriptions).

Participants also have the option of attending, in addition to the classes within their curricular option, various special lectures and co-curricular programs outside of class (see the Columbia Experience page).

"Please check the corresponding schedules under the Daily Schedule section". Students are normally given a ten-minute break halfway through each class meeting.

They are intended for bright, high-achieving high school students who are proficient in English and want to work hard, be challenged, and think independently. Students are not expected to master all the concepts to which they are exposed; they are evaluated on the basis of how much effort they put in and how much progress they make, not on whether they have understood all the material.

Classes are experiential and collaborative. While course instructors do provide substantive instruction, students learn largely by engaging directly with the subject matter through activities such as class discussions, debates, simulations, case studies, meetings with guest speakers, assigned readings, and individual and group projects. Participants are expected to participate actively in class and may be required to prepare in-class presentations.

Students are encouraged to think independently, logically, critically, and creatively. Instructors guide them in learning how to do so. Even more important than the particular knowledge participants gain in these classes is the ability to think with both open-mindedness and precision about complex material. We believe that this skill will be essential to them not only in their academic careers but also in their lives as world citizens and future leaders.

Attendance is taken at each morning and afternoon class. Parents/guardians of commuter students should notify the Student Services Office of their child’s absences by sending a note in advance or by telephoning the Student Services Office at 212-853-7400. Parents/guardians of residential students will be contacted if their student is absent from class because of illness or another issue. The Pre-College Program staff will make every effort to keep parents informed; however, it is the responsibility of the parents to set attendance expectations with their students. 

Class attendance is critical to the successful completion of the program. Students who miss more than two classes will not be eligible for the program certification, and multiple absences will be noted in the evaluation letter. Students who are seeking an exception should reach out to the Student Services Office.

While much of the required work is done in class with instructor guidance, students should expect, on average, an hour or two of homework per night.

Students should budget approximately $50 for books and course materials. Some curricular options may require additional materials.

Detailed information regarding course-specific materials can be found on the individual course pages.

Classes are taught by scholars and practitioners who are experts in their fields, have a passion and demonstrated an aptitude for teaching, and have undergone background checks and University Protection of Minors training.

Instructor biographies appear at the bottom of each course page, though please note that (a) not all instructors listed for a course teach all sections of that course, (b) students cannot request particular instructors or sections, and (c) we occasionally have to make staffing changes because of availability issues.

Courses do not carry college credit. Upon successful completion, participants receive a personal evaluation letter from the instructor and a Columbia University Certification of Participation.

Students seeking to earn college credit may be interested in our College Edge programs, in which they can take actual undergraduate classes alongside college students. 

Grades are not assigned. Rather, upon successful participation in the program, students receive official Columbia University Certifications of Participation and evaluation letters from their instructors. Instructors comment candidly and constructively on students’ performance, as demonstrated by their in-class participation and submitted work. Students are evaluated on the basis of the effort they put in, their progress over the duration of the class, and their potential for future work in the pertinent field and in college.

Our classes are academically rigorous and may require students to feel comfortable using technical and specialized vocabulary depending on the course. One of the core foundations of our program is class participation through active discussions, both in an online chat format and when called upon to speak in class. Students should be able to engage in classroom fast-paced discussions and read all materials and assignments without any translation assistance.
 

To successfully participate in your course and co-curricular activities, you will need:

Computer

A computer that is capable of running the latest versions of browsers, plug-ins, and recent software, including tools that will keep the system free of viruses and spyware.

Internet Connection

A high-speed, hard-wired Internet connection (Ethernet) that will support streaming/interactive audio and video. Weak Wi-Fi may cause issues such as latency, choppy audio, and loss of connection.

Webcam

A webcam will be required for your daily participation in class. If your computer does not have a built- in camera, you can purchase a USB-based webcam to affix to the top of your computer.

Headset with Microphone

While many laptops come with built-in mics and speakers, we highly recommend that you use a USB-based headset with a microphone, such as the Logitech H390 USB Computer Headset. If you are using a laptop with a built-in microphone, please use headphones or earbuds during class sessions to avoid echo or feedback. Listening through speakers may cause echo that disrupts the entire class.

Zoom Installation

Please be sure you have administrative permission to install Zoom and other technologies on your computer.

Designated Learning Space

Students should choose a well-lit, distraction-free learning space appropriate for interacting with faculty and fellow students on camera.

Prior to the start of the program and before each class, we recommend all students check to ensure they have a secure internet connection and that their webcam, headset, and microphone are all performing properly. If you experience a technical issue while attending class, you will be able to reach out to your Course Facilitator who will help troubleshoot the occurring issue.

The University provides a full range of services and accommodations to assist students with disabilities. Upon acceptance into the program, students seeking assistance should contact the Disability Services Office. Only students who identify their disabilities well in advance can be assured of accommodation upon the start of the program.

Students are expected to be in class by its scheduled start time. We advise students to log into their class 10 minutes before to ensure that their technology is running correctly.

The Summer Online Program offers co-curricular and College Life events and activities. Co-curricular events are those meant to expand students' intellectual experiences. Such activities would include lectures on the college application process and special lectures on topics of current interest.

College Life activities are created and hosted by current college undergraduates. Student life events feature seminars and student clubs meant to introduce students to themes around college life and healthy community engagement.

Activities take place outside of class hours and are accessible by all students regardless of their class schedule.

Additional information can be found in the Columbia Experience pages of the website.

All courses are taught synchronously, which requires students to attend class during set meeting hours indicated on the individual course description page. All course times are Eastern Time.

Courses in the 2-Week Program are offered on one of two schedules:

• 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. ET
• 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. ET
• 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. ET

Courses in the 1-Week Program are offered on the following schedule:

• 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. ET and 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. ET

When selecting a curricular option, we encourage students to determine if the meeting hours of that particular course are feasible for the time zone in which the student lives. If the assigned meeting times of a particular course do not match well to the student's needs, we recommend students consider curricular options that may meet at a more convenient time.

Students are welcome to contact our Admissions Office for recommendations on similar curricular options by emailing hsp [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu.