Columbia considers 20% expansion in undergraduate admission intake: University weighs capacity and funding pressures

Columbia University is considering a significant expansion of its undergraduate intake in Columbia College (CC) and the School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), with proposals suggesting an increase of up to 20%, according to internal communication reported by the . The University is expected to firm up its decision before early-decision results are released in mid-December. The move marks a revival of discussions that began during the pandemic, when the University was reeling under financial losses and exploring ways to stabilise revenue streams. The expansion question has re-emerged this year against the backdrop of shifting higher-education dynamics, reduced operating surpluses, and concerns over declining international student applications. As reported by the , Columbia has