What's the GPA Requirement for Columbia University?

I'm planning out my applications for next year, and Columbia is top of my list. I know it's a stretch, but I still want to give it a shot. What kind of GPA are they looking for generally? Also, what about weighting AP and Honors classes? Any insights would be super appreciated.

As a highly selective university, Columbia University indeed has a competitive academic expectation for its applicants. While the university does not specify a minimum GPA requirement, the average GPA for admitted students is often reported to be around 3.91. However, this is merely an average, so do not be too disheartened if your GPA is below this.

When it comes to weighting AP and Honors classes, Columbia considers both the rigor of your course load and your performance. If you take rigorous classes – such as AP or Honors – and perform well, it can contribute positively to your application. These classes indicate that you are prepared for the demands of college-level coursework and can thrive in a challenging academic environment which is crucial for a rigorous institution like Columbia.

As for the academic index that Columbia uses, the university evaluates your academic strength, which combines your GPA, standardized test scores, and class rank (if available). Nonetheless, remember that admission to Columbia is not solely based on your academics. Your extracurriculars, essays, letters of recommendation, and other application components also play significant roles in their holistic review process.

It's excellent that you're setting high expectations for yourself and aiming for top-tier schools like Columbia. Remember to also find "target" and "safety" schools that you'd be excited to attend, as a balanced college list can give you the greatest chances of a successful college admissions season. Good luck with your application process!