Undergraduate academic requirements
- Completion of high school education or equivalent.
Degree type
Bachelor's
Key facts
- Duration4 years
- Delivery methodOn campus
- PaceFull-time
- Annual tuition fee72,800USD
- Start dateSep
- QS Ranking#43
Program overview
What Columbia University says about their program:
Chemical Physics is an undergraduate programme at Columbia University. Chemistry, the study of molecules, is a central science interesting for its own sake but also necessary as an intellectual link to the other sciences of biology, physics, and environmental science. Faculty find the various disciplines of chemistry fascinating because they establish intellectual bridges between the macroscopic or human-scale world that we see, smell, and touch, and the microscopic world that affects every aspect of our lives. The study of chemistry begins on the microscopic scale and extends to engage a variety of different macroscopic contexts.
Chemistry is currently making its largest impact on society at the nexus between chemistry and biology and the nexus between chemistry and engineering, particularly where new materials are being developed. A typical chemistry laboratory now has more computers than test tubes and no longer smells of rotten eggs.
The chemistry department majors are designed to help students focus on these new developments and to understand the factors influencing the nature of the discipline. Because the science is constantly changing, courses change as well, and while organic and physical chemistry remain the bedrock courses, they too differ greatly from the same courses 40 years ago. Many consider biochemistry to be a foundation course as well. Although different paths within the chemistry major take different trajectories, there is a core that provides the essential foundation students need regardless of the path they choose. Students should consider majoring in chemistry if they share or can develop a fascination with the explanatory power that comes with an advanced understanding of the nature and influence of the microscopic world of molecules.
Admission requirements
English proficiency
If your native language is not English or your primary high school instruction was not in English, you must submit standardized test scores. Columbia accepts the following exams with typical competitive or minimum benchmarks:
- TOEFL iBT
Recommended score of 105 or higher.
- IELTS Academic
Recommended score of 7.5 or higher.
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
Recommended score of 125–135 or higher.
- Cambridge English Qualifications
Minimum score of 191 on C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
English proficiency waivers
You do not need to submit an English proficiency exam if you meet any of the following conditions:
- Scoring 29 or higher on the ACT English or Reading sections.
- Scoring 700 or higher on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (note that Columbia reinstated SAT/ACT requirements for terms starting August 2027 onward).
- Having English as your native/home language or completing your entire secondary education with English as the primary medium of instruction
Documents required
- Secondary school report (transcripts)
- Standardized test (SAT, ACT)
- Teacher recommendations
- Columbia-specific questions*
*Note: Columbia-specific questions, also known as the writing supplement, tell the Committee on Admissions more about your academic, extracurricular and intellectual interests.
Required grades
We're still gathering required grade information for this program
Check back soon, or for the latest information on required grades.
to see how attainable this program is.
Additional requirements
Documents
- Online application is required
- High school transcripts, secondary school records, or GED/TASC results are required for applicants with fewer than 30 earned college credits
- Transcripts from all colleges or universities attended are required
- CSS Profile is required for applicants seeking financial aid
Essays and statements
- One typed, double-spaced autobiographical essay of approximately 1,500-2,000 words is required
Recommendations
- Two letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional sources are required
Tests and examinations
- SAT, ACT, or the Online GS Admissions Exam may be submitted optionally
- TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test is required for eligible non-native English speakers
Scholarships at Columbia University
Columbia provides information for international applicants seeking aid and notes that many Columbia students, including international students, receive financial awards from outside organizations. International students should follow Columbia Undergraduate Admissions and Student Financial Services guidance for international financial aid and scholarship funding.
All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.
Fees
What is the cost of living near Columbia University?
| Category | Cost (in United States Dollar) |
|---|---|
| Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre | $3,712 |
| Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre | $2,223 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse) | $130 |
| Internet (60 Mbps unlimited) | $67 |
| Mobile phone plan (data + calls) | $61 |
| Monthly public transport pass | $134 |
| Monthly grocery basket | $294 |
| Books and study supplies (monthly) | $107 |
| Coffee shop drink | $6 |
| Cinema or cultural event ticket | $21 |
| Gym membership | $118 |
Indicative monthly costs per person.
Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced), numbeo.com (Crowdsourced) and cc-seas.financialaid.columbia.edu (University published).
Visa requirements for Columbia University
Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at Columbia University.