PS A statement of purpose (not to exceed 1,000 words) CV A CV. Fee Students apply through the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GSAS) at Columbia University. The GSAS application fee is $105. RL TWO LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION. Academic references are preferred, however, applicants who have not been enrolled in an academic program for some time may submit letters from supervisors or colleagues in positions of responsibility. While applicants are free to submit the references that they believe best support their applications, at least one reference from an instructor familiar with his/her work is recommended. Applicants are permitted to submit a third letter of recommendation as well, but should keep in mind that additional recommendations are not necessarily positive additions to applications. Transcript Electronic transcripts showing courses and grades from all post-secondary schools attended. All transcripts or other records of academic work (e.g., mark sheets, Releve de Notes) must be submitted electronically. If your university does not offer electronic transcripts, please upload a scanned copy of your transcript or academic record. Accepted applicants who have submitted a scanned copy of their transcript will be required to send in official paper documents for verification before the offer is considered official. (Please do not send official transcripts before being notified by GSAS.)