Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Columbia
$331,756
4-year total (private)
VS
Princeton
$316,360
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Columbia = $108,476 | Princeton = $77,520. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Columbia Top Majors
EconomicsComputer SciencePolitical ScienceEngineeringNeurosciencePrinceton Top Majors
Computer ScienceEconomicsPublic PolicyEngineeringHistory
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or Princeton harder to get into?+
Princeton is more selective with an acceptance rate of 3.5% compared to 3.9%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Columbia or Princeton?+
At sticker price, Princeton costs less over 4 years ($316,360 vs $331,756). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Columbia offers an average of $55,820/year in aid while Princeton offers $59,710/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Columbia and Princeton?+
The average SAT score at Columbia is 1535 and at Princeton it is 1546. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do Columbia or Princeton graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Princeton have a higher average starting salary ($90,100 vs $89,200). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
Columbia has a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio while Princeton has 4:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Columbia and Princeton compare for campus life?+
Columbia is located in New York, New York (urban setting) with a 299-acre campus. Princeton is in Princeton, New Jersey (suburban setting) with 600 acres. Columbia competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Princeton in NCAA D1.