Decisions letters for all Ph.D. applicants are generally mailed by
mid March. The mailing of M.A. decisions varies by department and
application deadlines. Although some M.A. decisions are sent in early
Spring, decisions may be rendered as late as July. Decision letters
are sent by the Office of Admissions of the Graduate School of Arts
and Sciences and not by the individual departments.
What constitutes an official offer of admission?
Only the Dean of the Graduate School has the authority to
make an offer of admission. A letter or email from a faculty member is
not an official offer of admission. Only when you receive the official
letter signed by the Dean of the Graduate School are you considered
fully admitted.
Will I be able to see if a decision has been made on my application using the online tracking system?
No, Columbia GSAS does not post decisions online. Students will be notified of all decisions either by mail or email.
Are admissions decisions made on a rolling-basis?
Ph.D. decicions are not made on a rolling basis. In some cases, admission to Free-standing MA programs may be rolling.
How can I apply for advanced standing?
Applicants do not apply for advanced standing. If you are admitted, the
faculty will determine if advanced standing is warranted after you have
enrolled. For more detailed information please click here.
If I am admitted, may I defer my admission?
No. The Graduate School does not grant deferrals of admission; you must reapply.
How do I reapply to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences?
If you are reapplying for the next academic year you must submit a new
application and all new supporting documents. With the exception of GRE test scores which are kept on file in
the admissions office for up to one year.
