Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the deadline to apply for admissions?

You are required to provide complete application documents, transcripts and necessary immigration forms no later than five weeks from the start of the semester to which you are applying. We encourage you to apply well in advance of the beginning of the semester, because getting a visa at U. S. consulates and embassies can take a long time.

Can I apply online?

Yes! Click here to apply online.

Do I need a TOEFL score for admissions? If so, what is the required score?

To be considered for full admission, you must provide official scores from an English proficiency or standardized admission test. Appropriate scores from the following exams are considered proof of proficiency in English:

  • TOEFL (institution code: 6095)
    • 500, paper-based test
    • 173, computer-based test
    • 61, internet-based test
  • IELTS
    • Overall band score of 5.5 with no individual band scores below 5
  • SAT (institution code: 6095)
    • Minimum critical reading subscore of 430
  • ACT (institution code: 002456)
    • Minimum English subscore of 17

Columbia College also will consider the following evidence of English language proficiency:

  • A grade of C or higher from an English composition course completed at a U.S. institution and deemed equivalent to the Columbia College ENGL 111 course
  • Submission of official APIEL score of 3 or higher
  • Successful completion of a U.S.-based English as a Second Language (ESL) or Intensive English Program (IEP)

You don't have to submit scores from these exams to study in the ESL program, (ESL) but may be asked to participate in a phone interview to determine your English skills. Columbia College does not offer beginning-level ESL.

How can I transfer to Columbia College?

Complete the application for admission and submit additional materials including the Transfer Authorization Form PDF document icon. Please see admissions information for more details.

How and when can I get an I-20?

I-20 forms are issued to admit international students who have provided evidence of ability to pay one year’s cost of attendance. While ability to pay has no bearing on admission, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires that international students provide this documentation before it issues an I-20.

Where is Missouri? What is the climate like?

Missouri is located in the heart of America. You'd be hard-pressed to find a state with more American values, food, music and arts. The climate in Columbia varies. We experience very warm, humid summers, 26-27 degrees; and cold winters, 6-8 degrees. All four seasons are very evident in Missouri, with thunderstorms, sunshine and snow.

Do you offer financial assistance?

Yes, in both the spring and fall semesters. Columbia College does not offer need-based aid, but you may qualify for academic awards based upon previous academic performance. A complete list of available academic awards, including requirements for eligibility, is on our Financial Assistance Web page.

Can I live on campus?

Sure. Columbia College firmly believes living in a residential hall will make your college experience better, and requires freshmen and sophomores to live in a residence hall unless you are:

  • Twenty-two years of age or older
  • Married
  • A single-parent
  • Living with parents who have a legal, permanent residence in Boone County

Students receiving academic or athletic scholarships, grants or awards must also live on campus. Housing, room and board costs are extra. Find out more about residential life.

Do you offer graduate studies?

Yes: a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ). Go to Graduate Studies.

Can I work on campus?

Yes. But remember that there is a limited number of these jobs, and competition can be fierce! And you may work no more than 20 hours per week when school is in session and 40 hours per week during breaks and holidays. Learn more about student employment.

Is Columbia College accredited?

Columbia College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, is a member of the North Central Association and holds specialized accreditation in education, nursing and social work. The college was recently reviewed for reaccreditation, and the commissioning team recommended the maximum reaccreditation of ten years.

What is the difference between a college and a university?

In some countries, "college" is defined as a secondary school. In the United States, however, college is always defined as an institution of higher education beyond high school. Universities are usually larger than colleges, but both are institutions of higher education. The principal role of faculty at a college is to teach. At most universities, faculty must divide their time between teaching and research. As Columbia College is an institution focused on teaching, it has maintained the title of college.

What is SEVIS and how will affect me?

SEVIS, the Student Exchange and Visitor Information System, is a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) program that tracks international students pursuing academic or vocational programs in the United States. Under SEVIS, specific information about each international student must be reported within a designated timeframe. Download the SEVIS formPDF document icon.

How do I obtain my student visa?

Contact your nearest embassy or consulate once you have received your Columbia College acceptance packet. You will need the I-20 form, a current passport, your Columbia College acceptance letter, financial and other documents.

Carefully review information regarding the visa application process. If you have other questions, contact the Admissions Office or International Programs Office.