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Columbia University English Requirements

THE #20QS #=43ARWU #8CWUR #8

New York, United States

Columbia University (officially Columbia University in the City of New York) is a private Ivy League research university located in New York City, United States. Founded in 1754 as King's College, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education in the United States, known for its rigorous academics and extensive research output across liberal arts, sciences, engineering, business, law, medicine, and journalism.

Verified on the university's admissions pages · Jul 2026

Quick answer

Columbia University accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, and Duolingo English Test for international admission. Undergraduate applicants typically need Duolingo English Test 135, TOEFL iBT 5.5 (1–6), and IELTS Academic 7.5.

Undergraduate requirements

The university-wide standard for first-year international applicants.

Duolingo English Test135
TOEFL iBT5.51–6107+0–120
TOEFL iBT1050–12051–6
IELTS Academic7.5
PTE AcademicUnknown
Cambridge English191

Sources: undergrad.admissions.columbia.edu/apply/inter…

Graduate requirements

The university-wide standard for graduate and postgraduate international applicants. Individual programs may require higher scores.

Duolingo English TestUnknown
TOEFL iBT5.51–6107+0–120
TOEFL iBT1000–12051–6
IELTS Academic7.5
PTE AcademicUnknown
Cambridge EnglishUnknown

Sources: gsas.columbia.edu/content/information-interna…

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Frequently asked questions

Does Columbia University accept the Duolingo English Test?+

Yes. Columbia University accepts the Duolingo English Test. Undergraduate applicants need a minimum of 135; graduate minimums are set by each program.

What TOEFL iBT score do I need for Columbia University?+

Undergraduate admission to Columbia University requires TOEFL iBT 5.5 (1–6) or higher. Graduate programs may require more, depending on the program.

What IELTS Academic score do I need for Columbia University?+

Undergraduate admission to Columbia University requires IELTS Academic 7.5 or higher. Graduate programs may require more, depending on the program.

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Requirements are read from Columbia University's own admissions pages and refreshed regularly. Admission requirements change between cycles. Always confirm on the university's admissions page before applying.