Columbia University, an Ivy League institution, is known for its academic excellence but also for its high tuition costs of over $66,000 per year for programs. Fortunately, Columbia University scholarships help students ease this financial burden. With nearly 58% of undergraduates receiving some form of aid and an average grant of $63,971, Columbia ensures that financial need doesn’t limit access to world-class education. Whether you're an undergraduate, graduate, or international student, this guide covers all the scholarships available and how to secure funding for your studies.
Columbia University offers a range of funding opportunities to help students manage tuition costs. Columbia University scholarships include need-based grants for undergraduate students, departmental awards for graduate programs, and external funding options. Whether you're looking for scholarships at Columbia University as a domestic or international student, financial aid is available to support your academic journey. Explore the best scholarships Columbia University has to offer
Columbia University ensures affordability by offering financial aid to undergraduate students. Columbia University scholarships for undergraduate students are granted based on financial need, ensuring students can pursue their studies without financial strain. These scholarships Columbia University provides include institutional grants, federal and state aid, and special funding programs. Below is a detailed breakdown of available undergraduate scholarships at Columbia University and their eligibility criteria.
Columbia offers need-based financial aid covering up to full tuition, including Columbia Grant Aid and CFAI for eligible students. It does not offer merit-based full scholarships.
Apply for need-based aid via the CSS Profile and FAFSA (for U.S. students). Strong academics, financial need, and external scholarships like Fulbright or Knight-Hennessy improve your chances.
Yes, international undergraduates can receive need-based financial aid, while graduate students can apply for Columbia graduate scholarships and external funding like the Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship.
CFAI – Full tuition for families earning under $150,000.
Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship – Up to $90,000 for immigrant students.
Knight-Bagehot Fellowship – Full tuition + stipend for journalism students.
Fulbright Program – Highly selective for graduate students.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars – Full tuition for exceptional leaders.
Columbia Law Human Rights Fellowship – For top law students in human rights.