Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Columbia University vs New York University

New York, NY · New York, NY · Source: IPEDS federal database

Columbia UniversityNew York University
Acceptance Rate4.2%9.4%
In-State Tuition$69,045$60,438
Out-of-State Tuition$69,045$60,438
Average Net Price$16,526$20,175
Graduation Rate95.0%88.0%

GradFax Analysis

Columbia University accepts 4.2% of applicants. New York University accepts 9.4%. Columbia University's tuition is $69,045. New York University's is $60,438. New York University is cheaper. Columbia University graduates 95% of students in 6 years. New York University graduates 88%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Columbia University profileNew York University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Columbia University or New York University?

Columbia University. It accepts 4.2% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Columbia University or New York University more affordable?

New York University has lower published tuition: $60,438 versus $69,045. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Columbia University: 95% of students finish in 6 years. New York University is at 88%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Columbia University vs New York University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax