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

May my transcripts 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.

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

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

How many copies of each transcript must be submitted with an application?

One official transcript is all we require.

Do I need to submit transcripts if I only took a few courses at another school?

Yes. A transcript showing all courses and grades of any academic work must be submitted. However, if the courses and grades are listed on your main transcript a separate transcript need not be submitted.

Does GSAS accept scanned or web based academic records?

Yes. We accept them for review purposes. However, we consider them "unofficial". Therefore, you MUST ALSO SUBMIT "official" hard copies. 

What suggestions do you have in uploading my transcripts?

• Scan at the lowest dpi that results in a legible document (we recommend to use under 200 dpi whenever possible)
  

• Ensure that the institution name and other identifying marks are not missed during the scanning process and that your scanned copy is clearly legible and can print on letter size paper (8 ½" x 11")
  

• Include the transcript legend (back page in most cases)

• Save your document as a PDF file

• Make certain that its size is less then 1000kb (1mb). Scanning in “gray scale” or black and white may produce the best results

• If the scanned file is too large then make a photocopy first (experiment with different settings until you find one that results in the smallest file size) then scan the photocopy
  

• You may upload an institutional web based transcript/academic record

Where do I upload my scanned transcript?

On the Educational History page of the online application. 

Can I upload all my transcripts as one pdf?

No. Each transcript must be uploaded separately.

If I upload my transcripts do I still need to submit the originals?

Yes. Official paper transcripts must be submitted for all schools attended regardless of whether or not they have been uploaded.

Do I need to upload both the foreign language and English translations of my transcripts?

Yes. Transcripts that are in a language other than English should be translated into English. The translation must be certified to be an accurate translation of the original and be notarized or otherwise authenticated. Both non-English AND translated transcripts should be uploaded AND mailed.

When should I use the Fall Term Grade Report?

If you wish your fall term grades to be included in your application you should use this form to report them to us.

Do I need to use the Transcript Request Form for all my transcripts?

Yes. 

Whom do I contact if I cannot find my school code on the "Educational History" page of the online application?

You should send an email to gsas_apply@columbia.edu. In the email provide the school name, city, country, school website and the dates of attendance. 

My undergraduate degree is a 3 year Bachelor's degree. Am I eligible to apply to your programs?

GSAS is now accepting applications from students earning 3 year bachelor's degrees in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Australia, South Africa and any country which is a participant in the Bologna Process.