What GPA is Columbia looking for?

Hey guys, I'm really trying to aim for Columbia University. Does anyone know what kind of GPA they're looking for? I'm trying to figure out how hard I need to hit the books next year.

Generally, students who are admitted to Columbia University have very strong academic profiles, with an average unweighted GPA of around 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale. However, this doesn't mean you can't get in with a GPA that's lower than this, it just may be more challenging. Columbia, like many other top-tier schools, tends to look at a weighted GPA as well, typically appreciating students who have pursued rigorous course loads -- advanced classes like AP and Honors can play a significant role in the admissions process. That 'hard-to-quantify' drive and intellectual curiosity demonstrated by a rigorous coursework can be as important as the GPA itself.

Also, do keep in mind that Columbia doesn't only assess applicants based on the GPA. They follow a holistic review process where extracurricular activities, recommendations, essays, and SAT/ACT scores (required again for the 2024-2025 application cycle) are also given significant weight. Your personal story, outside passions, and distinct outlook provide invaluable context to an otherwise number-dominated application.

Essentially, while aiming to achieve a high GPA, also try to balance your time towards developing a strong overall application. Best of luck with your endeavors!