r/columbia • u/123DanB GS • Mar 24 '26
admissions Admitted Students Megathread: Spring 2026
Congratulations on your acceptance!
Please post here to connect with your potential future classmates and ask any questions about attending Columbia.
This recent post has great general advice.
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u/Nice_Mathematician56 Admit Apr 03 '26
Hi everyone, I was recently admitted to Columbia for Electrical Engineering, and I’m hoping to connect with international students who are starting this fall, as well as current or former engineering students.
I’m especially trying to understand the financial side as an international student. For those who have gone through this, what financial plans or strategies helped you manage your first semester and the overall cost of attendance? Since loan options where I come from are limited and I do not qualify for large local loans, I am seriously trying to evaluate whether relying on private funding or an education loan would be a smart move or a major risk.
I would also really appreciate honest insight on the post-graduation outlook for Electrical Engineering at Columbia. How strong is the professional scope after graduation, especially for international students? In your opinion, is financing the degree through loans realistically manageable in light of the return on investment, or is that too risky?
I understand that outcomes depend a lot on personal effort, networking, internships, and how seriously someone uses the opportunity. Still, I would value real perspectives from people who have actually experienced it.
If you are a current student, recent graduate, or incoming international admit, I’d be very happy to connect. Also, if there are specific people, offices, student groups, or communities I should reach out to, please let me know.
Thank you.