Frequently Asked Questions

No, substitutions aren't accepted for letter #1. Most principals, headmasters, and guidance counselors check with the student’s teachers before writing recommendations. The perspective of a high-level administrator as well as the teacher’s comments found in recommendation letter #2 are valuable in making admissions decisions.

We do not ask for either score as part of the application. If these scores are available, we will look at them, particularly in the case of students applying to study science or math. However, we do not value one piece of an application packet over another, but rather look at the whole student.

Yes, you may apply to take courses in both sessions. Make certain that you indicate clearly your interest in both sessions on your application form.

We occasionally, though rarely, allow younger students to enroll in curricular options in the Junior-Senior division or older students to enroll in curricular options in the Freshman-Sophomore division. You may apply to be in a course outside of your division, but you should explain in your personal statement why you are doing so and, if possible, include a second choice within your division.

You may take only one curricular option per session. Please note that some curricular options include more than one course.

The amount of homework varies from one class to another. However, instructors are encouraged to assign work that can be completed in large part during the mid-day break with the exception of term-long projects, which may require additional time. Students who do not use their mid-day break to complete assignments may require a couple of hours in the evening to complete homework.

Students in the Summer Program have access to Columbia University’s classrooms, laboratories, dining halls, libraries, computer labs, fitness center, and student activities center. Students do not have library borrowing privileges.

The University provides a full range of services and accommodations to assist disabled students. Upon acceptance into the program, students seeking assistance should contact the Disability Services Office. Only students who identify their disabilities well in advance can be assured of accommodation upon their arrival on campus.

Residential students requiring special accommodations should also e-mail the High School Program Office at hsp-apply@columbia.edu.

There are a number of pianos on campus that can be used by students on an informal basis. Private practice rooms are not available to students in the High School Programs.

Individual applications for financial aid are not accepted. Scholarships are awarded to students who have been identified by community organizations that work in collaboration with Columbia University Secondary School Programs. Students are advised to check with their guidance counselors for tips on securing summer program financial aid. Unfortunately, Columbia is not able to work directly with individuals who wish to obtain financial aid.

The cost of books and materials varies from class to class. Students should budget approximately $50 for course materials.

Note: The text book for Introduction to Business Finance and Economics costs about $170. This book can be returned to the bookstore for up to half the price at the end of the term. Supplies for Introduction to Architectural Design and Theory cost between $250 and $300. Students in the Narrative and Religion course should budget approximately $100 for course-related field trips.

You need to obtain permission from the Director of Secondary School Programs. Your parent or guardian should submit a note along with your application materials attesting to your ability to live without his or her supervision. Younger students are housed with the other students in the program and are assumed to be at the maturity level of 16- and 17-year-olds.

Some of the dormitories are not centrally air conditioned. Where there is no central air conditioning, bedrooms have window air conditioner units, included in the housing fee.

Yes. During the week students must be in their suites, or on their designated floors, by 11 p.m. and on the weekend by 12 midnight, unless they are participating in a supervised activity. Curfew is strictly observed and students who do not abide by the curfew will be removed from the program.

Live-in resident advisers provide round-the-clock supervision. Scheduled group activities are not mandatory, but students are asked to account for their whereabouts after 7:00 PM by means of sign-out procedures.

Although it is not necessary, students are allowed to bring computers. The dorms are wired for Internet access.

Yes. Residential students are expected to cover expenses such as transportation, admission fees, laundry, weekend meals, and personal items. We suggest that students have access to a minimum of $700 for the program.

Upon acceptance, residential students are given the opportunity to elect a kosher meal plan. Please see Dining Options for more information.

Parents must submit written permission to the High School Program Office in order for a student to be away overnight. The permission note must include the dates and times that a student will be away as well as the location and phone number of where he or she will be staying. Permission notes must be submitted at least 24 hours prior to departure.

The resident advisers are trained undergraduate and graduate students who represent universities all over the United States and  have demonstrated a strong interest in working with secondary school students. They complete an intensive two-week training program before the arrival of the students. In addition to supervising the residential students in the dormitories, they lead extracurricular activities, serve as teaching assistants, and staff the High School Program office.

No, transportation to and from airports is up to the student. Taxis from all three airports cost $40.00-$60.00.

Yes, there is a Citibank ATM on campus in Lerner Hall. It accepts all major ATM cards.

You will receive one FedEx mailing, which will include the admissions letter and all pertinent information.