I'm thinking about applying to Columbia College Chicago. Can anyone walk me through the application process, including any specific requirements or deadlines I should be aware of?
The first step in applying to Columbia College Chicago is to start your application via the Common Application or Columbia's online application. Both platforms will require you to fill out a standard form with your personal information, academic history, and extracurricular involvement.
When it comes to specific requirements, Columbia College Chicago does not require the SAT or ACT. However, you have the option to submit your test scores if you believe they will enhance your application.
If you are a freshman applicant, you should submit your high school transcript. Transfer applicants should submit their transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. High school transcripts might also be required for transfer students if you’ve completed less than 24 semester (36 quarter) hours of college coursework.
Another major component of the application is the essay. Columbia accepts the essay you submit through the Common Application, though they also give you the option to submit a personal statement of your choice.
To gauge the strength of your application, you may want to use CollegeVine's free admissions calculator: https://www.collegevine.com/admissions-calculator. This tool will weigh your data against the data of Columbia College Chicago admitted students, to give you accurate, personalized odds of admission.
If you are applying to a program that requires a portfolio, like their arts or media programs, make sure to follow the portfolio guidelines mentioned on their website to submit your creative work.
Regarding deadlines, Columbia has a rolling admissions process, which means they accept applications throughout the year until they have filled their incoming class.
Once you've submitted all of these components, the last step would be to pay the application fee. There's an application fee of $25, though they do offer fee waivers in certain circumstances.
After submitting your application, you should hear back within 2-3 weeks about the decision.
I hope this gives a clear image of the application process at Columbia College Chicago. Best of luck with your application!
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