College comparison

Columbia University in the City of New York vs Princeton University

A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.

Quick answers

Is Columbia University in the City of New York or Princeton University harder to get into?

Columbia University in the City of New York is more selective: Columbia University in the City of New York's acceptance rate is approximately 4% and Princeton University's is approximately 5% (estimates from public and primary sources).

What SAT score do you need for Columbia University in the City of New York vs Princeton University?

The middle-50% SAT range is 1510–1580 at Columbia University in the City of New York and 1510–1580 at Princeton University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Which is cheaper, Columbia University in the City of New York or Princeton University?

Princeton University has the lower average net price after aid: $21,590 at Columbia University in the City of New York vs $6,128 at Princeton University. Actual cost varies with financial aid and residency.

Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.

These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.