Columbia International University is one of the top educational institutions to study in the USA. It has an acceptance rate of about 33% that shows that getting into this renowned institute can be competitive and the students must demonstrate excellent skills to be considered for admission. Courses of Columbia International University include 22 undergraduate majors, and 51 graduate and research programs in different fields like business administration, healthcare, biblical studies, and more.

The university accepts applications for the fall and spring academic sessions. An application fee of 25 USD is needed at the time of applying.  An average SAT score of 940-1120 or an ACT score of 17-23 is acceptable. Other important documents one needs to share while applying include previous academic transcripts,essay, resume, letters of recommendation, proof of finances, and identity. GMAT or GRE score and work experience are not essential but can be a bonus while applying.

Highlights

Mode of application Online
Application fee 25 USD
Acceptance rate 33%
Class Size 20 students
Mode of payment Cash/personal cheque/money orders/credit card
Intake seasons Fall/spring
Academic calendar Semester based
Work experience Not required
Financial aid Available

Columbia International University Admission Deadlines

The Columbia International University advises international candidates for early application submission to provide sufficient time for review and processing. The last date to apply for the master's program differs as per the course. The deadlines for the undergraduate program are listed below. 

Intake Deadlines
UG

Fall: November 1

Spring: April 1

PG Rolling

Also Check: Admission Deadlines of Top US Universities

Columbia International University International Student Admissions

Columbia International University has students from more than 40 countries. The students have various topics they can choose to study at different levels. To apply as an international student it is required to meet the following requirements.

Application Portal: University Online Application

Application fee: 25 USD

Basic Admission requirements:

  • Official transcripts
  • ELP score
  • ACT/ SAT score
  • Bank statement
  • Affirm to be a Christian, agreeing with CIU’s Doctrinal Standard.

English Proficiency Test Scores

As an additional requirement, international students need to submit their English proficiency scores. The tests should be submitted by both undergraduate and graduate applicants, here are the minimum requirements for the same.

Tests Accepted UG PG
TOEFL PBT 500 550
TOEFL CBT 178 213
TOEFL IBT 70 79

Visa Process for International Students

Once the university issues the I-20 form, students can proceed with either F-1 or J-1 student visa and SEVIS Fee payment. Students must contact the US Embassy or consulate to learn about visa specifics and requirements. Visa application includes the following general documents:

  • Copy of the passport
  • Acceptance letter
  • I-20 form issued the university
  • Completed visa application
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Scholarship/sponsorship letter(if needed)
  • Immunization form
  • Health examination form

Once approved after the visa interview, a stamp will be issued on the passport.

Columbia International University Undergraduate Admissions

Undergraduate courses at Columbia International University are in various fields including, business administration, general studies, healthcare administration, Bible, human services, etc. To apply as a freshman at Columbia international the students must meet the following requirements.

Application Portal: University Online Application

Application fee (non-refundable): 25 USD

Admission requirements:

  • Academic transcripts
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Visa
  • Passport
  • Proof of funds
  • ELP score
  • Affirm to be a Christian and agree with CIU’s Doctrinal Standard.

Columbia International University Graduate Admissions

 Students who wish to apply at Columbia International University as graduate students have many options to choose from. Candidates need to have a GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and those with a GPA under 2.0 may be admitted on a provisional basis.

The table below represents the program-specific requirements to get admission in the popular graduate courses of Columbia International University:

Requirements MBA MA Bible Teaching M.Ed. Early Childhood MA Care and Counseling MS Organizational Leadership
Transcripts Required Required Required Required Required
Essay Not Required Required (800-1000 words) Not Required Required (800-1000 words) Required (800-1000 words)
Professional CV/Resume Required Not Required Not Required Not Required Not required
LOR Not Required One professional reference Two professional references From church leader From church leader

Please note that all the applicants’ academic records not written in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Transcripts need an International Credential Advancement Package (ICAP) evaluation by World Education Services (WES) or a formal evaluation by InCRED, given it's not in English.

The students seeking to study in the USA by enrolling at the institute must ensure to keep all the documents handy while filling the application form. It is advised to submit the completed application as early as possible to avoid delay or rejection. The institute also provides online courses that one can learn from the comfort of home. If everything goes well and the student is offered admission, one will have to pay a 100 USD deposit as confirmation. The next step is to apply for financial aid, apply for a visa, and submit health documents to the institute.

FAQ’s

Ques. What are the basic undergraduate admissions requirements at Columbia International University?

Ans. The minimum admissions requirements at Columbia International University are a 2.0 high school GPA, and an SAT score of 940, an ACT score of 18, or a CLT score of 54.

Ques. What is the status of sports at Columbia International University?

Ans. Columbia International University is a part of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) and shall compete on the division 1 level.

Ques. Is Columbia International University accredited?

Ans. Columbia International University has been accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for their undergraduate and graduate programs and is listed as a Level V school, meaning it offers three or fewer doctoral degrees.

Ques. What’s the total number of freshmen enrolled at Columbia International University?

Ans. Columbia International University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 6,202. The total strength consists of 2-3% of international students as well.

Ques. Does Columbia International University give scholarships to international students?

Ans. Columbia International University students receive awards from outside organizations, including merit-based scholarships and tuition benefits from employers, government agencies, or other sources.