Programs
- MBA
- Executive MBA
- Master of Science
- Doctoral
- Undergraduate Concentration
- Predoctoral Research
The global COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 presented institutions of higher education with challenges in teaching and learning, as well as in the assessment of academic performance. As a consequence of these challenges, Columbia University affirms the following principle:
The University’s graduate and professional schools, as well as their respective admissions committees, will take into account the important disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak when reviewing student transcripts and other admissions materials as part of their customary practice of performing holistic reviews of individual applications or dossiers. Specifically, we will respect decisions made by institutions or individuals regarding the adoption of Pass/Fail or similar grading options during the period in question.
The Provost and University Deans adopted this principle to ensure that no applicants are disadvantaged by policy decisions made by their colleges/universities as a result of this unprecedented public health event.
The Columbia Business School Deferred Enrollment Program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to gain a few years of work experience with a guarantee of admission to Columbia's highly selective MBA program, and the flexibility to begin the full-time program two to five years after college graduation.
Columbia is looking for future leaders from all academic and personal backgrounds to maintain the diverse and supportive community for which Columbia is known.
Apply to Columbia Business School:
Apply during your senior year in college or during a subsequent graduate program. When reviewing your application, the admissions committee will look at your academic background, any work experience or internships that you have, and your engagement in activities outside the classroom. Click here for additional FAQs regarding the Deferred Enrollment Program.
Gain Work Experience:
After completing your current studies and before starting your MBA at Columbia Business School, enter the workforce for two, three, four, or five years. Use the time to explore what drives you, knowing that you have the flexibility to start the MBA program when the time is right for you.
Access Columbia:
As an admitted student you are part of the Columbia Community, and will have access to select conferences, events, and School-wide resources to enhance your academic experience and to help you throughout your career.
Start Your MBA:
When you are ready to start the MBA program, send us a letter of intent, specifying whether you want to enroll in January (16-month program) or August (traditional 20-month program featuring a summer internship.) You will have the option to choose the program that fits your personal and professional goals.
Fellowships and Scholarships:
Once you send your letter of intent to start the MBA program, you will be considered for merit-based fellowships and be able to apply for need-based scholarships. Find more information on fellowships and scholarships here.
*The deadline to submit the 2021 DEP Application is April 15, 2021
Who is eligible for the Deferred Enrollment Program:
Application Requirements:
Candidates will be notified if they are invited to interview with Columbia Business School.
Fees and Deposits:
Click here for additional FAQs regarding the Deferred Enrollment Program.
Important Dates:
2020 Deferred Enrollment Class Profile
Admitted: 180
GMAT Range: 640-790
GPA Range: 3.16-4.0
Number of Schools Represented: 65
Number of Countries Represented: 19
Contact us to learn more about the Deferred Enrollment Program.
Email: [email protected]