Frequently Asked Questions

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

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.

Columbia University's Pre-College Programs 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.

Participation in the Pre-College Programs does not constitute the basis for securing a student visa. Students may enter the U.S. using the Visitor (B) Visa or under the Visa Waiver Program (if applicable) 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. 

International students currently holding a F-1 visa may participate in the Pre-College Programs without needing to alter their visa status. F-1 students currently enrolled in a U.S. high school who will return to their school after the program are permitted to participate during their summer break. We recommend notifying your International Student Advisor or Designated School Official of your summer plans to ensure your school remains informed.

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.

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

Students who successfully complete the program receive official Columbia University Certification of Participation and an evaluation letter. The evaluation letter comments 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.

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.

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. 

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 as long as the sessions do not overlap. 

• Students cannot participate in the NYC Summer or Online Summer programs and College Edge. 

Multiple Program Application Instructions:

• Students interested in studying online and on-campus must first submit an on-campus application  

• Reach out to the Office of Admissions at hsp-apply [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu for further instructions about submitting a second application for the online program.

Please review the possible session combinations to determine your desired program options.

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.

Financial aid is available in the form of need-based scholarships for permanent residents and US citizens located in the United States of America or its five major territories. Financial aid is available for a single course in a 3-week, 2-week, or 1-week session in the NYC Commuter or Online Summer Programs. Students participating in multiple sessions may not apply for financial aid. Financial aid is not available for students participating in the NYC Residential program or the Academic Year program. For detailed information, please review the Financial Aid section of our Cost and Fees page.

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. 

Financial aid is available in the form of need-based scholarships for permanent residents and US citizens located in the United States of America or its five major territories.

Financial aid is available for a single course in a 3-week, 2-week, or 1-week session of the NYC Commuter or Online Summer Programs. 

Awards equal to 100% of the course cost will be offered to qualified students. This award does not include the health service fee, technology fee, and activities fee, or any applicable course fees. 

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).

Summer Program

• 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.

Academic Year Weekend Program

• 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.

Yes.

Summer Programs:

• 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.

Academic Year Weekend

• 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The NYC Residential Summer program is open to students who are 15 years of age. Students who are 15 years of age must turn 16 by December 31 of the year they attend the NYC Residential Summer program.

If you will not turn 16 by December 31, 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.

Welcome to Columbia University's Pre-College Program! We are absolutely thrilled to have you join our vibrant academic community in the heart of New York City! Your incredible journey begins the moment you step foot on our historic campus. 

Parents, please make arrangements for your student's transportation from airports or train stations directly to Columbia University, this is where their transformative pre-college experience officially begins! 

Our dedicated staff will be eagerly awaiting your arrival, ready to help your student settle in and embark on an unforgettable summer of learning, growth, and new friendships. We can't wait to meet you and start this exciting chapter together!

We must emphasize that early arrivals cannot be accommodated under any circumstances. All students must arrive precisely on their designated move-in/check-in date and time, which has been communicated to you via email. Columbia University does not have residential staff or dormitory space available prior to your official check-in time. Our program facilities are specifically prepared to welcome you on your assigned arrival date, and our staff scheduling is aligned accordingly. Please note that Columbia's Pre-College Program is not liable for students who arrive on campus before the program officially begins. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to these important logistical guidelines to ensure a smooth start to your pre-college experience.
 

If you find yourself arriving after the designated check-in hours, don't worry—we have a system in place to welcome you to campus. A dedicated phone number will be provided in your arrival information email for late check-ins. Please call this number as soon as you depart from the airport or train station to begin your journey to Columbia's campus. This advance notice is crucial as it allows our staff to prepare for your arrival and ensure someone is ready to assist you when you reach campus. By keeping us informed of your travel progress, we can better coordinate your late arrival and help you settle in smoothly, even outside of standard check-in hours. Your safety and successful arrival are important to us, so please remember to make that call when you're on your way

We strongly encourage students to travel to Columbia with a parent or guardian; however, we recognize that not every circumstance can allow accompaniment. For students who must travel to Columbia independently (without travel accompaniment from a parent or guardian), we strongly recommend the following: 

• Create a physical folder of relevant documents for students to carry on their person while traveling. Documents should include:
  • A printed copy of your travel itinerary
  • A photocopy of all relevant photo identifications
  • A printed copy of your acceptance letter for this program
  • A printed copy of any previously secured ground transportation (if applicable)
  • International students should also carry a copy of any relevant travel documents such as VISA paperwork, etc. (if applicable)
• Discuss a travel communication plan
  • Who and when to contact at each leg of travel to ensure the student has safely arrived on time
  • Who and when to contact if a leg of travel has been delayed or canceled
  • How to access emergency travel funds if need arises
  • Note: not all airports have reliable and free Wi-Fi, so have a back-up plan in case Wi-Fi devices are not available for communication
  • Make sure all communication devices are fully charged before travel, and that a back-up battery or power charger are quickly available in case needed
• Pack medicines and toiletries in a carry-on bag
• Carry US currency or travel-approved credit card in the event of an emergency while in transit

In the event of a travel emergency, our program is unable to provide physical support for students at any public transportation hub (airport, train, bus, etc.); however, students who run into any travel emergencies should contact a member of our team via first calling Columbia Public Safety at 212-854-5555 and stating “this is an emergency involving a Columbia Pre-College Student. I need to speak with a member of their team.”

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.

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.

Homeschooled applicants should meet the application requirements listed on this page: https://undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu/apply/firstyear/homeschooled.

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 using a school-affiliated email address by a school administrator to sps-collegeedge [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu.

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 special 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. 

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

To learn more about the program, please watch the College Edge pre-recorded webinar on our website.

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.