Life at Columbia

This is a place unlike any other—where Columbia College and Columbia Engineering students form a community of bright, curious individuals living and learning together in a truly one-of-a-kind environment. Our students come together from every background and every corner of the globe to engage and explore, to see new adventures and perspectives, to build connections and lifelong friendships, and to pursue a better world.

Students laughing on South Lawn
Cityscape of a New York City street
Students emerging from 116th Street subway stop

An entire universe inside 315 city blocks.

Living and learning in New York City almost defies description. It’s Wall Street and Silicon Alley. The Met and MoMA. The Brooklyn Bridge and Washington Square Park. SoHo, the Village, TriBeCa, Midtown, Harlem. High finance. High fashion. High hopes and high ideals.

Explore New York City 

Life at Columbia FAQs

Will I have housing on campus for all four years?

Columbia undergraduate students are guaranteed housing for all four years. In fact, nearly all undergraduates live on campus, and first-year students are required to live on campus. Housing at Columbia offers a wide variety of living opportunities—from corridor style to apartment style living, from residence halls in the middle of the main quad to those on quiet side streets only a five-minutes walk to the center of campus.

What is Morningside Heights like?

Morningside Heights is a dynamic residential neighborhood filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and hangout spots. It is steps from the Hudson River and bordered by Central Park, Morningside Park and Riverside Park; all the resources of New York City are a short bike, bus or subway ride away.

Does Columbia have programs to help me make the most of my time in NYC?

From the Columbia Arts Initiative (think free museum access and tickets to Broadway shows) to the Center for Career Education (careers fairs, thousands of internship listings and more), Columbia provides countless ways for you to connect with the incredible city that we call home. Hear directly from Columbia students to learn how they've made New York City their own.

fact:

500+

student clubs, organizations and teams

fact:

40+

social justice and service initiatives

fact:

70+

arts and performance opportunities

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50+

cultural organizations

Community is where you find it. Here, you’ll find it everywhere.

Draw inspiration from a city and a neighborhood in constant motion, and a campus alive with opportunity. Tap into energy and ideas inspired by countless student clubs, organizations and opportunities to dive in. Forge friendships, find purpose and discover a sense of belonging all your own.

Meet Our Community

Students walking on College Walk during Tree Lighting

See yourself here.

Whether you want to get to know the neighborhood in person or visit virtually from the comfort of your own home, we’ve got you covered.

Explore Visit Options