Columbia Dreams? Here’s What the Class of 2029 Says About Who Got In—and How You Can, Too

 
 

Let’s be honest—Columbia is more than just another Ivy. It’s where ambition meets New York energy. Where you debate Aristotle in the morning and intern at a global nonprofit by the afternoon. Where students don’t just study the Core—they live it.

So if Columbia is on your dream list, this year’s admissions results tell you more than just who got in. They offer a glimpse into what Columbia values now—and how you can build an application that speaks their language.

The Numbers (Yes, They’re Intense—But Stay With Us)

Columbia College and SEAS received 59,616 applications for the Class of 2029. From that, they admitted 2,557 students, landing at an acceptance rate of 4.29%.

That’s up slightly from last year’s record-low 3.86%, when Columbia admitted 2,327 out of 60,248 applicants.

Early Decision apps also dipped a bit—5,872 this year versus 6,009 last year. Still, if you’re thinking ED for Columbia, the strategy might be worth considering. More on that soon.

What’s most telling? Admits came from all 50 states and 115 countries—proof that Columbia is still drawing thinkers, doers, and dreamers from across the world.

What Made This Cycle Different?

Let’s talk context—because this year wasn’t business as usual.

Columbia’s Class of 2029 is the second admitted without race-conscious admissions, following the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling. In response, the university created an Admissions Working Group to explore how to expand access in other ways—particularly for students from public high schools and community colleges.

At the same time, Columbia faced pressure from the federal government, including the threat of losing $400 million in funding unless it committed to admissions reform. The university agreed—but held its ground that its current practices remain lawful and mission-aligned.

Translation? Columbia is under the microscope. And it’s being forced to rethink what “access” and “excellence” look like in today’s landscape.

What Do We Know About Who Got In?

Full demographic data hasn’t dropped yet, but last year’s numbers showed:

  • Black student enrollment dropped from 20% to 12%

  • Asian American and Pacific Islander enrollment rose from 30% to 39%

Those shifts reflect a system in flux—and remind us that admissions is now less about checking boxes and more about telling your story well.

Applying to Columbia? Here’s What Matters Now

  • Strong academics open the door.
    Columbia is still Columbia. You need rigor, standout grades, and a transcript that shows you’ve challenged yourself. But that’s just the entry ticket.

  • Voice, context, and purpose carry weight.
    In the absence of race-conscious review, your essays and activities do the heavy lifting. What have you overcome? What do you care about? What connects your curiosity to your community?

  • Fit matters more than ever.
    You don’t need to name-drop every Core course, but you should show that you get Columbia. What’s calling you there—beyond the NYC skyline? Specific programs, people, or opportunities? Say it clearly and personally.

Waitlisted at Columbia? 

Getting waitlisted can stir up all kinds of emotions—hope, frustration, uncertainty. But it also means you were right there. At Ivy Link, we help students turn that moment into momentum. We’ll take a close look at your application, help you write a powerful Letter of Continued Interest, and guide your next steps with clarity and strategy. If Columbia is still the dream, we’re here to help you keep the door open—and make the most of what comes next.

EJ (Elden Joie) Gonzales