Engineering Preview at Columbia (EPC)

Columbia University, one of the oldest and most culturally vibrant schools in the country, is known for its distinctive approach to an engineering education. Columbia Engineers receive not only a first-class foundation in math, science and engineering, but are also educated in Columbia’s renowned liberal arts Core Curriculum. They learn from innovative and accomplished faculty in every field, surrounded by the brightest minds in the world. By combining technical expertise, socially responsible leadership and innovative entrepreneurship, Columbia Engineers go on to improve the world locally, nationally and globally. We call this Engineering for Humanity.

student:

My college search process began my junior year of high school near the summer. I began working on my college application and looking for fly in programs or other opportunities to visit schools and learn more about their programs. Eventually, I found Columbia's fly-in program and took part in what was one of the best programs of my life. Following that, I finished up my applications, but only submitted my ED application which was to Columbia. Fortunately after being accepted, I committed then and there and awaited beginning my academic experience at Columbia.

Aiman
N.
Danvers, MA
Mechanical Engineering and Energy Systems

Applying to the Engineering Preview at Columbia

Each fall, Columbia Engineering offers an all-expenses paid, selective program designed for high school seniors who are interested in learning about our unique engineering education. The three-day program will be held in-person on October 8, 2023 - October 10, 2023. Admission is highly selective. Please note that all students who apply to Engineering Preview at Columbia will receive a fee waiver in the general Columbia Undergraduate Admissions application process, no matter the EPC decision.

The application for the Engineering Preview at Columbia (EPC) is now available and will be due by September 6, 2023.

Apply to the Engineering Preview at Columbia

Highlights of EPC typically include:

  • 100% funding: All meals, snacks and housing, as well as air, rail and ground transportation will be funded by Columbia.
  • World-class faculty and research: Students will meet members of Columbia’s renowned faculty and visit our world-class research centers.
  • Unparalleled career and entrepreneurship opportunities: Students will take a behind-the-scenes tour of a leading engineering firm or organization in New York City. Past attendees have visited Google, Bloomberg, the World Trade Center Transportation Hub and the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, to cite just a few examples.
  • Inside look at life as a Columbian: Students will stay with an undergraduate host, experience campus life and meet current students. In previous years, participants have met student leaders from a variety of student organizations such as Engineers Without Borders, the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, the Native American Council and the Society of Women Engineers.
  • The NYC advantage: Students will take a tour of New York City and learn about the cultural, professional, research and intellectual opportunities at our doorstep.
  • Admissions 101: Students will participate in comprehensive college admissions and financial aid workshops conducted by members of the Columbia Admissions Committee.

EPC is designed for high-achieving high school seniors who have:

  • Exemplary academic records, particularly in math and science, including coursework in calculus, physics and chemistry 
  • Sincere interest in pursuing an engineering education
  • Genuine appreciation for the vibrant Columbia community, bringing together students with varied lived experiences

EPC is designed to serve students who may have had less exposure to the fields of engineering and applied science, including:

  • Low-income students
  • Students who will be the first generation in their family to attend college
  • Students from underserved and rural communities
  • Students who qualify for Free or Reduced Price Lunch
  • Students attending Title 1 or economically-disadvantaged high schools

Students will be notified of their decision in late September. Please email any questions about the Engineering Preview at Columbia to us at ugrad-epc@columbia.edu.

We hope you consider this unique opportunity to learn more about Columbia Engineering!