Columbia University in the City of New York: Is It Worth It?
New York, New York · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
10.9
Net Price/Year
$21,590
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$102,491
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$21,500
at graduation
Is Columbia University in the City of New York Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $102,491 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $21,590 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $86,360.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 0.8 years.
The median graduate leaves with $21,500 in debt, which represents about 21%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
4.0%
Avg SAT
1553
ACT Midpoint
35
Enrollment
8,973
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
95.5%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
98.0%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
185800.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$71,845
Out-of-State Tuition
$71,845
Avg Net Price
$21,590
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia University in the City of New York worth the money?
Based on federal data, Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn a median of $102,491 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $21,500 at graduation. The ROI score is 10.9.
What do Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn?
The median earnings for Columbia University in the City of New York graduates is $88,535 six years after enrollment and $102,491 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Columbia University in the City of New York?
The acceptance rate at Columbia University in the City of New York is 4.0%.
How much debt do Columbia University in the City of New York graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Columbia University in the City of New York students is $21,500.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.