HELP! Columbia says I should apply General Studies, what does it mean?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
1

So today I got an email saying that I would likely be a better candidate for the Columbia General Studies school but I don’t seem to meet the criteria.

Is this a polite way of saying I will be rejected from Columbia College if I don’t change my application to the GS program? I am older than most students due to an immigration thing, but I haven’t had a year between college and high school though I did have a year gap in high school.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of switching to general studies?

Thanks

2

Did you have a lot of dual enrollment community college credits? It could be some combination of age, college credit, gap year.

3

nope no Community college credits. I will not be taking a gap year, however I will be 21 upon entering the Freshman class.

4

Why don’t you call the school admissions department and ask. Your age likely means that you are considered a non-traditional student. It may be a great option for you.
https://gs.columbia.edu/admissions