BA Music

How US Universities Assess Applicants

US universities use a holistic admissions review. Beyond grades and standardized test scores, they weigh the strength of your overall profile to understand who you are as a student and a person.

• Profile Assessment: Creative-field applicants may be assessed through academic preparation, creative ability, visual thinking and, where required, a portfolio. The portfolio may include finished work as well as sketches, experimentation, process development and written explanations. Architecture may value Mathematics, Physics, drawing and spatial thinking, while Art, Design and Fashion programs may place greater emphasis on originality, technical development and the creative process.
• Advanced Placement(AP) Guidance: AP availability depends on the student's school. Relevant APs can strengthen an application and may earn university credit, but are not compulsory unless the university or programme explicitly requires them.
  • AP 2-D Art and Design
  • AP 3-D Art and Design
  • AP Drawing
  • AP Art History
  • AP Calculus or Physics may be beneficial for Architecture
• Extracurricular activities: Estimated extracurricular contribution: 20–25%. Columbia considers intellectual engagement, initiative, creativity, leadership and community contribution. Activities involving research, journalism, debate, arts, service or engagement with urban and global issues may support the profile when they genuinely reflect the applicant’s interests.
• Essays & recommendations: Personal essays and teacher/counselor recommendations give context to your achievements and help demonstrate fit with the program.