Columbia International University Columbia International University (CIU), founded in 1923 in South Carolina, is a private Christian university focused on biblical education and global ministry. The 400-acre campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Bible, ministry, intercultural studies, and professional disciplines. CIU maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and requires all students to complete a biblical studies core. The university is particularly known for its missions programs and the Cook School of Intercultural Studies. Campus facilities include the G. Allen Fleece Library and the new William H. Jones Global Business and IT Center.
CIU takes pride in its mission to 'educate people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations.' Campus life includes chapel services, mission conferences, and NCCAA athletics. The university's location provides access to multicultural ministry opportunities. Recent initiatives include expanded online programs and the Center for the Study of Biblical Languages. CIU's combination of rigorous academics, spiritual formation, and global focus prepares students for Christian service worldwide.
Columbia International University Acceptance Rate
Columbia International University (CIU) is a well-known institution with a selective admissions process. With an acceptance rate of 48.22%, successful applicants typically show strong performance across both academic and personal categories.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Data verified via IPEDS and the 2025-2026 Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Columbia International University Admission Requirements
CIU GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at CIU is 3.5. CIU is highly selective.
Mostly A’s with a few B’s will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
If your GPA is between 3.2 and 3.5, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
CIU GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at CIU utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.5, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.50 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.30 – 3.49 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.10 – 3.29 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.09 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At CIU, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Columbia International University (CIU) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Columbia International University Average SAT Score: 1074
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Columbia International University is 1074 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Columbia International University SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1074 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1195 SAT or 25 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Columbia International University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 990, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to CIU. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
Columbia International University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 533 | 490 | 575 |
| SAT Reading | 560 | 500 | 620 |
| SAT Composite | 1074 | 990 | 1195 |
It means that if you have scored less than 990 then you are below most of the admitted students at CIU and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1195 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1050
Can I get into Columbia International University (CIU) with a 1200 SAT?
With a 1200 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Columbia International University (CIU) are good but the admission staff at CIU tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Columbia International University (CIU) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at CIU is 21.
Columbia International University ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Columbia International University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 21 on the ACT.
Columbia International University ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 18 | 16 | 19 |
| ACT English | 23 | 20 | 25 |
| ACT Composite | 21 | 16 | 25 |
Can I get into Columbia International University with a 25 ACT?
With a 25 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Columbia International University are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 21.CIU Profile
Name: Columbia International University (CIU)
City: Columbia
URL: www.ciu.edu/
State: South Carolina
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 29203-1513
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
How much does a degree from CIU Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Columbia International University is USD: 38781. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Columbia International University is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
32.04% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 45.86 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to CIU and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Columbia International University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist CIU as your choice in the form.
How much a CIU Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the CIU graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 38951. An average CIU graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Columbia International University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Columbia International University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Auburn University at Montgomery, AL | 1051 | 22 |
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville State University, AL | 1055 | 20 |
| Troy University | Troy University, AL | 1050 | 21 |
| Williams Baptist University | Williams Baptist University, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Colorado Mesa University | Colorado Mesa University, CO | 1062 | 22 |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Metropolitan State University of Denver, CO | 1025 | 20 |
| Colorado State University Pueblo | Colorado State University Pueblo, CO | 1031 | 21 |
| Central Connecticut State University | Central Connecticut State University, CT | 1061 | 21 |
| The Baptist College of Florida | The Baptist College of Florida, FL | 1045 | 20 |
| Georgia Southern University | Georgia Southern University, GA | 1057 | 21 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Columbia International University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Columbia International University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Union College | Pacific Union College, CA | 1075 | 21 |
| Adams State University | Adams State University, CO | 1066 | 21 |
| Eastern Connecticut State University | Eastern Connecticut State University, CT | 1079 | 22 |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, FL | 1077 | 21 |
| Georgia Southwestern State University | Georgia Southwestern State University, GA | 1075 | 22 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Columbia International University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Alabama | University of South Alabama, AL | 1118 | 23 |
| Arkansas State University | Arkansas State University, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | University of Central Arkansas, AR | 1118 | 22 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa Pacific University, CA | 1132 | 25 |
| University of La Verne | University of La Verne, CA | 1116 | 22 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Area Studies
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Communication and Media Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Human Services, General
- Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies
- International/Global Studies
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia International University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $38951 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Columbia International University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $38781 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Columbia International University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Columbia International University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Columbia International University is 48.22 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Columbia International University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.5. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Columbia International University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 3.2, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Columbia International University with a 3.2 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.2 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Columbia International University if my GPA is below 3.1
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.5, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for Columbia International University?
Answer: Admission to Columbia International University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1074 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 990-1195
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Columbia International University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Columbia International University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Columbia International University?
Answer: The campus culture at Columbia International University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Columbia International University?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Columbia International University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.