Frequently Asked Questions Application Policy and Procedures Application Fee Supporting Materials Transcripts Standardized Tests Tracking Your Application Decisions, Deferrals and Reapplying Miscellaneous

May I send supporting documents before submitting an application?

Yes, all supporting materials received are kept on file and added to a student’s application file when the application is received. Please make certain to attach the appropriate downloadable form, accessible on your online application, to each item you submit.

May my supporting documents, such as letters of evaluation, transcripts, GRE or TOEFL scores, etc., arrive after the application deadline date?

Yes, materials may be received up to two(2) weeks after the deadline date for the specific department, with the exception of the Psychology Department which will accept materials up to one(1) week after the deadline date.

Where should my application materials be sent?

All materials should be sent to the Office of Admissions:

Columbia University GSAS
108 Low Library MC 4303
535 West 116^th Street
New York New York 10027

Applicants should not send any materials to the department.

Can transcripts and letters of evaluation be sent directly to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences or should I collect and forward them?

Transcripts and letters of evaluation may be submitted in either fashion, as long as they remain in their original sealed envelopes.

Does the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences accept letters from career or letter services?

Yes, but we recommend that letters of evaluation should address the specific requirements for the program to which you are applying. Letters kept on file in a dossier service may be too general.

Can a letter of evaluation be submitted without a GSAS cover sheet?

Yes, however, please be aware that if a letter is submitted without the accompanying form, your right to view the letter is automatically waived. Additionally, letters submitted without this form, MUST be written on official letterhead.

How can I obtain a cover sheet for the letters of evaluation?

You can download the cover sheet in the Downloadable Forms section of your online application.

May I submit more than the required three letters of evaluation?

Yes, we accept up to 4 letters.

How long should my statement of academic purpose be?

It should not be much in excess of 500 words.

How can I get supporting materials (e.g. books,writing samples, portfolios or tapes) returned to me?

No. Unfortunately all materials sent to the GSAS cannot be returned.

Am I required to provide any financial documents as part of the application process?

No. If you are admitted, you may be asked to provide certain financial documents.

When should I use the Supplementary Materials Form?

This form should be used for each required or additional documented you are submitting which cannot be uploaded as part of your application. 

Can I submit my musical scores electronically?

Yes, they can be uploaded on the "Writing Sample" page of the online application.