Visiting Student Admissions
The Columbia University Summer Session takes a unique approach to learning by offering curated educational, social, and cultural experiences to connect students with each other and Columbia faculty, along with opportunities to explore New York City landmarks and institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art to Broadway.
As a summer visiting student at Columbia University, you can customize your study or participate in structured academic programs.
Program Options
CURRENTLY ENROLLED COLUMBIA STUDENTS: Please consult with your advisor first to ask whether an application is required or you can register via SSOL.
Tailor your course plan to your unique needs by enrolling in the following programs:
- Visiting Undergraduate—Currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at another institution and in good academic standing.
- Visiting Graduate—Currently enrolled in a graduate degree program at another institution and in good academic standing.
- Visiting Postbaccalaureate—U.S. bachelor’s degree holders or international equivalent.
- Arts in the Summer—Open to all visiting students.
Visiting Focus Areas
Visiting undergraduate, graduate, and postbaccalaureate students may elect to participate in a focus area and upon successful completion will be awarded a certification of participation.
Follow a more structured curriculum in one of Columbia’s programs leading to a certificate or a Certification of Professional Achievement (CPA), or in an intensive language program:
U.S. bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) holders and undergraduate students who are rising juniors or seniors with strong academic records.
U.S. bachelor's degree or international equivalent.
Application Process
Courses frequently fill up before the application deadline, so students are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Applications are processed on a rolling basis and will only be reviewed if all application materials have been submitted.
- Step 1. Select your program option. If you are applying to the Visiting Undergraduate, Visiting Graduate, or Visiting Postbaccalaureate programs, determine if you want to participate in a Focus Area and if you are interested in University housing.
- Step 2. Gather your unofficial academic transcripts.
- Step 3. Create your account, submit your application, and review your application checklist to ensure all materials are submitted.
- Step 4. Receive your admissions decision, confirm intent to enroll in your application portal, and apply for housing (if applicable).
- Step 5. Submit your immunization documentation. International students must also submit an application or transfer application for and I-20 to Columbia ISSO.
- Step 6. Meet with your advisor and register for class(es).
Checking Application Status
Please allow sufficient time after submitting your application before contacting the Office of Admissions about your application status. We encourage you to check your application status in the online application portal as often as you like. You will be notified via email when a decision letter is ready to be viewed in your application portal.
After submitting your completed application, you will receive an email notifying you that the decision is ready to be viewed within the application system. Once your application materials are complete, you should expect to receive a decision notification in 2 to 3 weeks.
Connect With Admissions
There are many ways to connect with the admissions team. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals and to welcoming you to Columbia!
Online Information Sessions: Get an inside look at the 2025 Columbia University Summer Session our Online Information Sessions where we cover everything you need to know about the Visiting Student experience to help you prepare for a successful summer at Columbia.
Online Admissions Office Hours: Whether you have questions about our programs, the student experience, or general application requirements, join us for our virtual Admissions Office Hours and hear more from an Admissions Counselor.
Application Tips Webinars: Join the Admissions Team for information about the application process. You will hear answers to our most frequently asked questions and receive application tips.
For Questions Regarding Summer Session or Admissions
Email: summersession [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (summersession[at]columbia[dot]edu)
Call: 212-854-9666
Our phone hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. ET.
For Questions Regarding Withdrawals
Email: sps-summeradvising [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu (sps-summeradvising[at]columbia[dot]edu)
SPS Students
If you are a current School of Professional Studies student or an admitted student starting next term, contact a member of our SPS Student Advising Team for information and guidance.
Mailing Address and Campus Location
Office of Admissions
School of Professional Studies
203 Lewisohn Hall
2970 Broadway, Mail Code 4119
New York, NY 10027-6902
Phone: 212-854-9666
Fax: 212-854-7400
Our phone hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. ET.
Campus Walk-in Hours
Walk-In Hours: Monday to Thursday (excluding University holidays), 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. ET
All visitors to our campus are required to register with an SPS staff member, and access is limited to individuals with a Columbia University ID.
To visit during walk-in hours, please email inquire [[at]] sps [[dot]] columbia [[dot]] edu (inquire[at]sps[dot]columbia[dot]edu) at least two business days before your desired visit. Use the subject line "Walk-In Hours Request" and include the full names and email addresses of all visitors, along with the date and time of your requested visit. Our office will follow up with further instructions.