Continue Your Story | Columbia University School of General Studies

Sam's Story

When high school was over, Sam wasn’t ready for college, and decided to enlist in the Marines. After boot camp and combat training, she studied Arabic before being deployed throughout the Middle East, where she was a translator and taught self-defense classes to local women. After eight years serving her country, Sam made the challenging transition back to the civilian world and connected with a Columbia veteran alum before making the decision to apply to the School of General Studies. With its strong camaraderie, large population of military veterans, and veteran-dedicated support groups, it was clear that GS was the right place for her. Sam wouldn’t know it yet, but her leadership abilities, communication skills, and discipline would make her a successful student body president.

Joined the Marines right out of high school
Toured Jordan, Senegal, Qatar, Kuwait, and Djibouti
Left the military as a Sergeant
Joined IBM soon after graduation

Did You Know?

Percentage of military veterans in the 2019 spring incoming class
Percentage of military veterans in the 2019 spring incoming class
One day during Orientation Week is entirely dedicated to newly-enrolled veterans and serving military members
One day during Orientation Week is entirely dedicated to newly-enrolled veterans and serving military members
230+ currently-enrolled veteran students have received financial aid benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program
230+ currently-enrolled veteran students have received financial aid benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program
Army Ranger, Green Beret, and Nirvana guitarist Jason Mark Everman is a GS alumnus
Army Ranger, Green Beret, and Nirvana guitarist Jason Mark Everman is a GS alumnus

Learn More About Our Students

GS student Michelle
Michelle

Performer

GS student Ajay
Ajay

Entrepreneur

Lori
Lori

Community College Transfer

Upcoming Events

We hold information sessions about attending GS throughout the year, both on- and off-campus. Let us know you’re coming to see us by registering for one of the following events.

Wednesday, April 03, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Wednesday, April 17, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Wednesday, May 01, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Wednesday, May 08, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Friday, May 17, 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday, May 29, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Low Library at Columbia University

Application Deadlines

There are many important dates to remember. Sign up to request more information and we’ll also send you timely reminders.

Fall Admission
Application Open: December 1
Priority Early Action Deadline: January 15
Early Action Deadline: March 1
Regular Decision Deadline: May 15

Spring Admission
Application Open: August 1
Priority Early Action Deadline: September 1
Early Action Deadline: October 1
Regular Decision Deadline: November 1

Admissions Decisions
Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis (typically six to eight weeks after receiving a complete application).

Students walking on the Columbia campus
We have tailored our support services to meet the specific needs of non-traditional students. From veteran resources and academic advising, to career guidance and support for international students, you’ll find a wide variety of key support services at Columbia GS.
Students talking on campus
Columbia University campus
GS Student Life encourages students to become involved in programs and activities that enhance their educational experience and personal growth. A wide range of student organizations include the General Studies Student Council, sports teams, our military veterans group, MilVets, and more.

Request More Information

Loading...