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) maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 97.58%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.
Admissions Guidelines
- Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
- Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the 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) Test Requirements
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: 1093
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Columbia International University is 1093 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1093 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1123 SAT or 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 1053, 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.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | ||
| SAT Reading | 0 | ||
| SAT Composite | 1093 | 1053 | 1123 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1053 then you are below most of the admitted students at CIU and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1123 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 1100
Can I get into Columbia International University (CIU) with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 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.
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)
Can I Get Into CIU Without SAT Or ACT?: Columbia International University does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
Does a degree from CIU Worth It?
Getting into CIU can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. CIU offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at CIU is USD: 64434.93 and unemployment rate is 3.25%.
How much does a degree from CIU Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Columbia International University is USD: 40183. 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?
28.27% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 35.86 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 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, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville State University, AL | 1055 | 21 |
| Marion Military Institute | Marion Military Institute, AL | 1043 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | University of Arkansas at Little Rock, AR | 1049 | 21 |
| Arkansas Tech University | Arkansas Tech University, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | Southern Arkansas University Main Campus, AR | 1050 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Colorado Mesa University | Colorado Mesa University, CO | 1070 | 23 |
| University of Northern Colorado | University of Northern Colorado, CO | 1077 | 22 |
| Western Connecticut State University | Western Connecticut State University, CT | 1044 | 24 |
| Baptist University of Florida | Baptist University of Florida, FL | 1045 | 20 |
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, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Auburn University at Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Spring Hill College, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy University, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Grand Canyon University, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| University of the Ozarks | University of the Ozarks, AR | 1088 | 21 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Huntingdon College, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa Pacific University, CA | 1155 | 22 |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | University of Colorado Colorado Springs, CO | 1140 | 25 |
| Western Colorado University | Western Colorado University, CO | 1130 | 25 |
| Lynn University | Lynn University, FL | 1136 | 25 |
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?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $40183 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
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?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Columbia International University is 97.58 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?
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?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.2, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.2, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.2 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.1 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
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
Answer: Admission to Columbia International University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1093 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1053-1123
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
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.