Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to contact the Admissions Office?

The best way to reach us is by email: admissions@theschool.columbia.edu. We are eager to support you through the steps of the admissions process.

As a Columbia Family, are we required to live in District 3 or 5?

Columbia Families must reside in the five boroughs of New York City. Columbia Families’ residency is confirmed directly through Columbia HR. Therefore, we do not require proof of residency documents from Columbia Families during the admissions process.

As a Neighborhood Family, we do not yet live in District 3 or 5, but we plan on moving there. May I submit an inquiry?

Neighborhood Families must reside in District 3 or 5 during the inquiry period of August 15th through October 15th. The applicant student must be living in the residence at the time of inquiry.

I am a graduate of Columbia University. May I apply?

Alumni may be eligible to apply as Neighborhood Families, provided they meet residency requirements.

May I use a ConEdison or utility bill to prove my residency as a Neighborhood Family?

We are only able to accept current leases, mortgages, maintenance bills (bills provided directly by your building’s management), or co-op shares as proof of residency. If the documentation associated with your residence is not included on this list, please contact us by emailing admissions@theschool.columbia.edu.

What is the birthday cut-off date for Kindergarten applicants?

The School's age cut-off is August 31. Children must turn five by August 31, 2023 in order to enroll in Kindergarten for the 2023-24 school year.

Is there an application fee?

No, there is no fee to apply to The School.

Do applicants need to take or share results of a standardized test during the application process?

No, there is no required testing for admission to The School.

Do you offer Open Houses?

We plan to host Open Houses each fall as a required component of the admissions process. We will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, and consider the health and safety of all involved to plan the dates accordingly. We will also offer virtual events to give families a detailed view of our physical space and insights into our mission, curriculum, and school community.

I have questions about tuition/PTS benefit/financial aid. Who should I speak to?

For all financial matters, please contact the Business Office at billingteam@theschool.columbia.edu. Their process occurs simultaneously to ours. We purposefully conduct a separate process from all financial matters to ensure that financial information never factors into admissions decisions.

Do you follow the ISAAGNY timeline?

While we are not an ISAAGNY school, we do plan our notification and return dates with consideration for the ISAAGNY dates.

Do you accept ISAAGNY school reports instead of The School at Columbia’s Teacher Recommendation Form?

Yes, we will accept the ISAAGNY form in place of our own. Your nursery school can contact us directly with any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The School at Columbia University