For New Columbia College & Columbia Engineering Undergraduates

campus blossoms and students

Congratulations on your acceptance to Columbia University! As a new student, you need to fulfill several requirements prior to your arrival.

This website is a guide to planning and completing your requirements in order to avoid potential penalties and registration delays. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Important Things to Do

  • First, activate your Columbia UNI (your computing account) and then check your University email account.
  • To help you with the following activities, we recommend logging in with your UNI and password to the interactive New Student Checklist.

Health Insurance Open Enrollment Period

Spring Term students: Dec. 15, 2024 to Feb. 15, 2025
How to Confirm Enrollment in the Insurance Plan
How to Request a Waiver

Health

  • Submit the required immunization documentation for (1) measles, mumps, rubella and (2) certify your meningitis decision (and upload documentation if meningitis vaccine was received) via the Columbia Health Patient Portal upon admission or at least 30 days before registering for classes. 
    • Compliance with immunization requirements must be confirmed before the students are permitted to register for classes.
    • Students are strongly encouraged to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccine and receive a seasonal influenza vaccination. 
  • Open enrollment for new Spring Term students is from Dec. 15, 2024 through Feb. 15, 2025. Confirm your enrollment in the Columbia Student Health Insurance Plan or request a waiver.
  • Submit the Columbia Student Health History Form online no later than two weeks before orientation. Learn more about how information shared in this form helps ensure a smooth transition to campus.
  • Students seeking reasonable accommodations or support services are required to register with Disability Services. Learn about eligible conditions (e.g. chronic or temporary physical, learning, medical, or psychological conditions), documentation, services, and important deadlines.

Housing & Dining

  • After you receive your Housing assignment, complete your Occupancy Agreement online in the Housing Portal. Your assignment email also will provide your Check-In date and time.
  • As a reminder, the University is not responsible for the loss or damage of your belongings. We recommend that you acquire property insurance prior to arriving on campus. 
  • Familiarize yourself with the Guide to Living. This includes all policies and procedures related to living in the residence halls.
  • Review Dining options or purchase Dining Dollars or add funds to Flex through your SSOL account.

Registrar

Student Financial Services

  • Review your Student Account Statement using Student Services Online (SSOL).
  • The first Fall 2024 billing statement will be emailed to you on August 12, 2024. The payment deadline is September 20, 2024.
  • Visit the Student Financial Services website for the complete Billing Schedule.

University Policies