Columbia c/o 2018 Applicants (2014-2015 cycle) Forum

[Fred Norris]

I wonder what it was like before the Internet when you couldn't track exactly who else was getting in or getting rejected.

Peaceful

[Fawkes]

I wonder what it was like before the Internet when you couldn't track exactly who else was getting in or getting rejected.

Peaceful

Agreed. Much less stressful probably.

Condolences to all the people who got held and reserved. It sounds like a lot of you are getting YP'd.

[Mack.Hambleton]

It seems like so far Columbia is mostly admitting people slightly below or right at median (ie people paying sticker) and people well above medians with $$, and not much in between

[Fred Norris]

Is there any YP whatsoever?

[Mack.Hambleton]

Is there any YP whatsoever?

I would say yes

[jbagelboy]

Is there any YP whatsoever?

Well sure, if they really don't think you'll go (because you suggested as much) they won't let you in. But just based on numbers alone, no not really, they aren't worried yet about attracting top applicants since they come every year. Although expressing continued interest can't hurt!

[Mack.Hambleton]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

[yot11]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

Definitely possible. Although I got in with 174/3.9 and no money offer. Not really sure what their admissions office is doing.

[js1663]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

I think your theory makes sense. I'm at or above both 75th but numbers that, while possible, usually aren't high enough for a butler/hamilton.

I was invited to an interview and accepted shortly thereafter (though with no scholarship despite being subjectively the best interview i've ever had, so I assume it wasn't for determining my scholarship eligibility or I believe I would've gotten one). As such, I have to think the interview was likely more about yield protecting and determining my likelihood of attendance (much of the interview was spent on "why Columbia") - I've seen it discussed before where the theory is that interviews are for borderline acceptance or scholarship candidates, and the only way I can that I was a borderline acceptance candidate would've been for yield protecting, which lends credence to your theory.

[Mack.Hambleton]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

Definitely possible. Although I got in with 174/3.9 and no money offer. Not really sure what their admissions office is doing.

Well my other theory is that they just don't have their shit together

[hillz]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

I think your theory makes sense. I'm at or above both 75th but numbers that, while possible, usually aren't high enough for a butler/hamilton.

I was invited to an interview and accepted shortly thereafter (though with no scholarship despite being subjectively the best interview i've ever had, so I assume it wasn't for determining my scholarship eligibility or I believe I would've gotten one). As such, I have to think the interview was likely more about yield protecting and determining my likelihood of attendance (much of the interview was spent on "why Columbia") - I've seen it discussed before where the theory is that interviews are for borderline acceptance or scholarship candidates, and the only way I can that I was a borderline acceptance candidate would've been for yield protecting, which lends credence to your theory.

Yeah, I had a very similar experience - got accepted but no money after interviewing. I really didn't think that I was borderline for admission based on my numbers and was surprised when I didn't get a scholly, just based on what I thought was a good interview.

[R. Jeeves]

Any of the holds/reserves planning a visit? I'm gonna visit but I'm not really sure what I'll do. Should I meet an adcom and come up with some questions? Sit in on a class or something? I really just want them to know that I came. I guess if they don't take my name down or anything I could just mention the visit in my LOCI. Just wondering if you all would have any tips.

[jbagelboy]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

I think your theory makes sense. I'm at or above both 75th but numbers that, while possible, usually aren't high enough for a butler/hamilton.

I was invited to an interview and accepted shortly thereafter (though with no scholarship despite being subjectively the best interview i've ever had, so I assume it wasn't for determining my scholarship eligibility or I believe I would've gotten one). As such, I have to think the interview was likely more about yield protecting and determining my likelihood of attendance (much of the interview was spent on "why Columbia") - I've seen it discussed before where the theory is that interviews are for borderline acceptance or scholarship candidates, and the only way I can that I was a borderline acceptance candidate would've been for yield protecting, which lends credence to your theory.

Yeah, I had a very similar experience - got accepted but no money after interviewing. I really didn't think that I was borderline for admission based on my numbers and was surprised when I didn't get a scholly, just based on what I thought was a good interview.

what do you all mean by "no money"? are you in the cycle now? I don't think they've released scholarship information yet; you will still receive a scholarship from CLS if your numbers are at or above median. This is all premature

[hillz]

My theory is that they're YPing applicants in between median and big money/big LSATs. It seems like this year and last people in the 172/173 and 3.9+ were commonly held, probably because CLS doesn't care as much about lower 170s and high gpas and they know they'll get big money elsewhere which CLS usually reserves for 174+. So they're letting the 173/3.9 people take HLS or lower T14 money while they shoot for around median candidates and 174+ scorers

I think your theory makes sense. I'm at or above both 75th but numbers that, while possible, usually aren't high enough for a butler/hamilton.

I was invited to an interview and accepted shortly thereafter (though with no scholarship despite being subjectively the best interview i've ever had, so I assume it wasn't for determining my scholarship eligibility or I believe I would've gotten one). As such, I have to think the interview was likely more about yield protecting and determining my likelihood of attendance (much of the interview was spent on "why Columbia") - I've seen it discussed before where the theory is that interviews are for borderline acceptance or scholarship candidates, and the only way I can that I was a borderline acceptance candidate would've been for yield protecting, which lends credence to your theory.

Yeah, I had a very similar experience - got accepted but no money after interviewing. I really didn't think that I was borderline for admission based on my numbers and was surprised when I didn't get a scholly, just based on what I thought was a good interview.

what do you all mean by "no money"? are you in the cycle now? I don't think they've released scholarship information yet; you will still receive a scholarship from CLS if your numbers are at or above median. This is all premature

Yes, I realize that. We are referencing named scholarships because the discussion right now seems to be about interviews and who they have accepted/given named scholarships to thus far.

[Nathanael]

I think they must be more yield-conscious this year. Looking back as far as possible on LSN and among the sample on there no one has ever been wait-listed or rejected by Columbia with my numbers. They've had over 4 months to consider my application, I find it hard to accept that they need an additional 2 months to weigh my candidacy. The text of the e-mail was even a bit suspect, doing everything but outright telling me to either submit a LOCI or withdraw.

I guess it could just be me, but I already have 3 T6 acceptances, so my application must not be completely terrible. Looking back, my "why Columbia" answer probably wasn't incredibly convincing, but on the other hand I actually took the time and effort to travel to NYC and visit back in the Fall.

Still leaning towards withdrawing this week. The "hold" has soured my opinion of Columbia, which admittedly was very high after my incredibly positive interview experience and enjoyable campus visit and if I was lucky enough to land a financial aid offer eventually, it would likely be to late to use in negotiations anyways.

Anyways, sorry, I'm just frustrated and need to vent a bit.

[Fred Norris]

Is there anyone in the 177-180 3.9-4 range who applied before November and has heard nothing at all? Thinking I should send in an email.

[LawBron James]

I think they must be more yield-conscious this year. Looking back as far as possible on LSN and among the sample on there no one has ever been wait-listed or rejected by Columbia with my numbers. They've had over 4 months to consider my application, I find it hard to accept that they need an additional 2 months to weigh my candidacy. The text of the e-mail was even a bit suspect, doing everything but outright telling me to either submit a LOCI or withdraw.

I guess it could just be me, but I already have 3 T6 acceptances, so my application must not be completely terrible. Looking back, my "why Columbia" answer probably wasn't incredibly convincing, but on the other hand I actually took the time and effort to travel to NYC and visit back in the Fall.

Still leaning towards withdrawing this week. The "hold" has soured my opinion of Columbia, which admittedly was very high after my incredibly positive interview experience and enjoyable campus visit and if I was lucky enough to land a financial aid offer eventually, it would likely be to late to use in negotiations anyways.

Anyways, sorry, I'm just frustrated and need to vent a bit.

I don't blame you. I haven't been waitlisted (yet), but it seems like they're alienating a lot of good, legitimate candidates with the way they're doing things. It seems like most people with the Butler have good enough numbers that a lot of them will still go HYS or a full ride at a different T14 instead. I'm curious how they'll be able to maintain their medians like this.

[Fawkes]

Is there anyone in the 177-180 3.9-4 range who applied before November and has heard nothing at all? Thinking I should send in an email.

My numbers are in those ranges, and I haven't heard back, but I applied in mid-November. On page 44, there were a few people who seemed to be in a similar (though not exactly the same) situation as you. It might not hurt to send a polite email since status checker isn't helpful, and if they only sent you snail mail, it may have gotten lost.

I don't know. I say that, but I'm too afraid to contact them about it because it feels presumptuous, but I suppose the wording of the email is what counts. Also, you applied earlier, so it is reasonable to expect an answer by now, imo.

[AquafiNa]

I think they must be more yield-conscious this year. Looking back as far as possible on LSN and among the sample on there no one has ever been wait-listed or rejected by Columbia with my numbers. They've had over 4 months to consider my application, I find it hard to accept that they need an additional 2 months to weigh my candidacy. The text of the e-mail was even a bit suspect, doing everything but outright telling me to either submit a LOCI or withdraw.

I guess it could just be me, but I already have 3 T6 acceptances, so my application must not be completely terrible. Looking back, my "why Columbia" answer probably wasn't incredibly convincing, but on the other hand I actually took the time and effort to travel to NYC and visit back in the Fall.

Still leaning towards withdrawing this week. The "hold" has soured my opinion of Columbia, which admittedly was very high after my incredibly positive interview experience and enjoyable campus visit and if I was lucky enough to land a financial aid offer eventually, it would likely be to late to use in negotiations anyways.

Anyways, sorry, I'm just frustrated and need to vent a bit.

Yeah I'm very frustrated as well over this. It is things like this that draw me to Chicago or elsewhere.

[sneakyleo]

---

[Fred Norris]

Thanks, sneaky. If that's the case then yes, it probably makes little sense to send an e-mail at this point.

[Pau.C.]

.

[jbagelboy]

I think they must be more yield-conscious this year. Looking back as far as possible on LSN and among the sample on there no one has ever been wait-listed or rejected by Columbia with my numbers. They've had over 4 months to consider my application, I find it hard to accept that they need an additional 2 months to weigh my candidacy. The text of the e-mail was even a bit suspect, doing everything but outright telling me to either submit a LOCI or withdraw.

I guess it could just be me, but I already have 3 T6 acceptances, so my application must not be completely terrible. Looking back, my "why Columbia" answer probably wasn't incredibly convincing, but on the other hand I actually took the time and effort to travel to NYC and visit back in the Fall.

Still leaning towards withdrawing this week. The "hold" has soured my opinion of Columbia, which admittedly was very high after my incredibly positive interview experience and enjoyable campus visit and if I was lucky enough to land a financial aid offer eventually, it would likely be to late to use in negotiations anyways.

Anyways, sorry, I'm just frustrated and need to vent a bit.

Yeah I'm very frustrated as well over this. It is things like this that draw me to Chicago or elsewhere.

Keep in mind "Things like this" are probably the most irrelevant to your decision. While we all remember what it was like in the moment as applicants, it's totally illogical to make a decision about where to attend school and live for three years on temporary frustrations. Might surprise you now, but no one will care to recall the drain of the application cycle when you start school in september, it will all seem like a blur. Fight to have as many options on the table as you can and when the chips are down, weigh your scholarships, placement power and other important factors objectively, not based on the vicissitudes of interactions with the admissions office (which, by the way, plays no role in your career as a student once you get to campus)

[jbagelboy]

I don't blame you. I haven't been waitlisted (yet), but it seems like they're alienating a lot of good, legitimate candidates with the way they're doing things. It seems like most people with the Butler have good enough numbers that a lot of them will still go HYS or a full ride at a different T14 instead. I'm curious how they'll be able to maintain their medians like this.

Yes, I realize that. We are referencing named scholarships because the discussion right now seems to be about interviews and who they have accepted/given named scholarships to thus far.

it might "seem like" that now, but keep in mind only 50 or so persons among tens of thousands of applicants will receive a named scholarship. Named scholarship are only a small fraction of the total scholarships handed out each year, which range up to half tuition. Remember also that CLS actually increased medians last year at a time when nearly every other school was dropping.

Venting is healthy, but keep this in perspective and remember there's lots of $$ to be had via the normal channels and negotiation.

[Humbert Humbert]

I think they must be more yield-conscious this year. Looking back as far as possible on LSN and among the sample on there no one has ever been wait-listed or rejected by Columbia with my numbers. They've had over 4 months to consider my application, I find it hard to accept that they need an additional 2 months to weigh my candidacy. The text of the e-mail was even a bit suspect, doing everything but outright telling me to either submit a LOCI or withdraw.

I guess it could just be me, but I already have 3 T6 acceptances, so my application must not be completely terrible. Looking back, my "why Columbia" answer probably wasn't incredibly convincing, but on the other hand I actually took the time and effort to travel to NYC and visit back in the Fall.

Still leaning towards withdrawing this week. The "hold" has soured my opinion of Columbia, which admittedly was very high after my incredibly positive interview experience and enjoyable campus visit and if I was lucky enough to land a financial aid offer eventually, it would likely be to late to use in negotiations anyways.

Anyways, sorry, I'm just frustrated and need to vent a bit.

Yeah I'm very frustrated as well over this. It is things like this that draw me to Chicago or elsewhere.

Keep in mind "Things like this" are probably the most irrelevant to your decision. While we all remember what it was like in the moment as applicants, it's totally illogical to make a decision about where to attend school and live for three years on temporary frustrations. Might surprise you now, but no one will care to recall the drain of the application cycle when you start school in september, it will all seem like a blur. Fight to have as many options on the table as you can and when the chips are down, weigh your scholarships, placement power and other important factors objectively, not based on the vicissitudes of interactions with the admissions office (which, by the way, plays no role in your career as a student once you get to campus)

So true. I remember being pissed off at CLS around this time last year. I had strong numbers and couldn't fathom what was taking them so long, especially since I had multiple admissions from other top schools. No communication whatsoever. They also put relatively little effort into recruiting/selling you on the school, at least relative to other top schools. Really not sure why this was (and I assume still is) their approach.

Fast forward a year and I couldn't be happier I chose CLS. Like bagel said, you will literally never see the admissions people again after you enroll. Don't let them sway your decision, especially given all of the amazing things this school has to offer (employment prospects, location, brilliant professors, etc etc etc).

I know it's annoying now, but as someone who went through this last year, I urge you to take the long view and don't let admissions sour you on the school.