Columbia University Scholarships: Eligibility, Application Process, and Benefits

Did You Know?

• Over $225 million is awarded annually in scholarships and grants to undergraduate students at Columbia College and Columbia Engineering.
• Approximately 50% of undergraduates receive financial aid, with an average grant of $76,265.

Columbia University provides over 900 scholarships and fellowships, awarding over $225 million annually. These include need-based grants, departmental awards, and fellowships, with benefits like full tuition, $30,000 (INR 25.6L) stipends, mentorship, and research access.

Scholarships are particularly important for international students, who often face higher tuition fees and fewer funding options. This guide will explore the most prominent Columbia University scholarships for 2025, outlining eligibility requirements, benefits, and the step-by-step application process.

Types of Columbia University Scholarships Offered in 2025

Columbia University offers scholarships to support students from all backgrounds. These scholarships include need-based awards, departmental scholarships, and specialized fellowships.

Each year, approximately 4,983 undergraduate students (about 55%) receive financial aid, with average awards of $52,519 (INR 45L). These scholarships ensure students have the resources they need to succeed, regardless of their financial situation.

Here is an overview of notable scholarships at Columbia University, designed to meet diverse student needs and academic goals.

Scholarships for Graduate Students at Columbia University

Graduate students at Columbia University have access to a variety of scholarships in fields such as STEM, engineering, and cybersecurity. Notable scholarships include the Dean’s MS Academic Excellence Fellowship (10% stipend top-off) and the Graduate Fellowship in Engineering for Change ($25,000/INR 21.4L for one year).

Below are some graduate scholarships available:

Scholarship	Details
Dean’s MS Academic Excellence Fellowship	Eligibility: Domestic, first-year PhD students from underrepresented STEM backgrounds. Academic Criteria: Based on merit, with a focus on inclusion and diversity in STEM. Benefits: 10% "top-off" fellowship for first-year stipends.
Graduate Fellowship in Engineering for Change	Eligibility: MS students in Columbia Engineering with financial need and challenges. Academic Criteria: Admission to an MS program in engineering at Columbia. Benefits: Up to $25,000 (INR 21.4L) for one academic year for tuition and fees.
AAAS Mass Media Science and Engineering Fellows Program	Eligibility: Graduate students or postdoctoral trainees in science, engineering, or related fields. Academic Criteria: Must be studying life, physical, health, engineering, or computer. Benefits: $10,000 (INR 8.5L) stipend for 10 weeks of summer work.
(ISC)² Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship	Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing a cybersecurity or information assurance degree. Academic Criteria: Minimum 3.5 GPA required. Benefits: $1,000 to $5,000 (INR 85.6K to INR 4.27L).
MA Research Matching Funds	Eligibility: MA students in Arts & Sciences for final thesis/project research. Academic Criteria: Must be in good academic and administrative standing. Benefits: Matching funds of up to $400 (INR 34K) for research expenses.

Scholarships for Undergraduate Students at Columbia University

Columbia University offers over $200 million annually as financial aid to undergraduate students. Scholarships like the Global Learning Scholarship ($1,000 to $7,000) and the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship ($27,000) offer valuable financial support for students pursuing academic and global opportunities.

Here are several scholarships offered for undergraduate students:

Scholarship	Details
Columbia Undergraduate Scholars Program (CUSP)	Eligibility: Open to all undergraduate scholars at Columbia University. Academic Criteria: Commitment to diversity and inclusion, attendance at CUSP events required. Benefits: Partial financial support for independent research or creative projects.
Global Learning Scholarship (GLS)	Eligibility: Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, or General Studies students demonstrating financial need. Academic Criteria: Must be enrolled in an eligible Columbia-led summer program. Benefits: $1,000 to $7,000 (INR 85K to INR 5.98L).
BHW Scholarship	Eligibility: Women pursuing an undergraduate or master's degree in STEM fields. Academic Criteria: Applicants must submit an essay on a designated STEM-related topic. Benefits: $3,000 (INR 2.57L).
Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarships	Eligibility: Students who are sponsored by a Rotary club and are planning to study abroad. Academic Criteria: Strong academic achievements and potential to represent Rotary’s values. Benefits: $27,000 (INR 23.1L) for one academic year.
DAAD Fellowships	Eligibility: Must be an undergraduate student who has completed at least 2 years of study. Academic Criteria: High academic achievement. Benefits: $992 (INR 84,915) for students, $1,300 (INR 1.11L) for doctoral students.

While Columbia University offers numerous undergraduate scholarships for domestic students, it also provides a variety of highly competitive awards designed specifically for international students.

Scholarships for International Students at Columbia University

Columbia University, home to over 13,700 international students from 145 countries, offers valuable scholarships like the Lemann Fellowship ($16,500/INR 14L), designed to support international students in their academic and professional development.

Here are the scholarships available for international students at Columbia University:

Scholarship	Details
The Columbia University Fellowship for International Students	Eligibility: Graduate students from all degree programs at Columbia University. Academic Criteria: Enrolling in a graduate or PhD program at Columbia University. Benefits: Stipend for two-semester program, with seminars and study trips to Washington D.C. and the UN.
The Lemann Fellowship Program	Eligibility: Full-time master's students. Academic Criteria: Strong academic track record and interest in social change in Brazil. Benefits: Up to $16,500 (INR 14L).
The Obama Foundation Scholars Program	Eligibility: Rising leaders from around the world with a commitment to solving global challenges. Academic Criteria: Admission to Columbia World Projects (CWP). Benefits: Fully funded nine-month residency with personal and professional development workshops.
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships	Eligibility: Indian citizens with at least 3 years of professional work experience, strong leadership qualities. Academic Criteria: Completed U.S. bachelor’s equivalent. Benefits: Full tuition, living costs, round-trip air travel, and J-1 visa support.
Shardashish Interschool Fellowship	Eligibility: Indian students committed to India’s future, with demonstrated financial need. Academic Criteria: Admission to specific graduate programs (e.g., MA in Biotechnology, MS in Engineering). Benefits: Up to $50,000 (INR 42.8L) for one year.

Note: Scholarship eligibility may vary each year. Please check the official website for the latest updates.

Students must understand the eligibility criteria for scholarships. Meeting these requirements ensures consideration for the right opportunities. Let's check the scholarship eligibility criteria for Columbia University in detail.

Eligibility Requirements for Columbia University Scholarships

Columbia University scholarships are designed to support students who meet academic, financial, or research benchmarks. Key requirements include a GPA of 3.7+ for merit-based scholarships and demonstrated financial need for need-based awards.

Since the rejection rate is high, academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal achievements are significant factors. Columbia offers internal scholarships, like the Columbia University Fellowship for International Students, and external scholarships from organizations such as the Fulbright Program to enhance financial aid access.

Below are the key requirements for Columbia University scholarships:

Merit-Based Scholarship Eligibility

Eligibility criteria for Columbia University scholarships primarily focus on financial need, with some consideration for academic performance. While there are no merit-based scholarships, students can apply for merit-based scholarships from external organizations.

External scholarships, such as the Fulbright Program and AAUW International Fellowships, are open to international applicants and awarded for academic excellence, leadership potential, and accomplishments.

Here are some typical eligibility requirements for Columbia’s funding opportunities:

Criteria	Details
Study Level	Postgraduate
Academic Score/Marks	Strong GPA ( 3.7+ on 4.0 scale) required for consideration.
Additional Requirements	May require GRE/GMAT, specific coursework, or relevant achievements.
Nationality	Open to both domestic & international students.
Other Criteria	Leadership and commitment to social change (Lemann, Obama Fellowships) Research potential (Dean’s MS Fellowship).

Need-based scholarships at Columbia University are designed to support students who demonstrate financial need. To better understand how these awards are granted, let’s look at the eligibility criteria students must meet.

Need-Based Scholarship Eligibility

At Columbia University, need-based scholarships are primarily determined by financial need and academic level. Scholarships like the Columbia Grant cover 100% of financial need for domestic and international students, while the HEOP supports economically disadvantaged New York State students.

Applicants must submit detailed financial documents. While academic thresholds are generally more flexible than merit-based awards, certain programs may also factor in personal hardships or life circumstances.

Here are the typical eligibility requirements for Columbia’s need-based scholarships:

Criteria	Details
Study Level	Undergraduate/Graduate
Academic Score/Marks	No specific minimum GPA Admissions are need-blind for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens.
Additional Requirements	Submission of financial documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and the CSS Profile (for international students).
Nationality	Domestic and International
Other Criteria	Columbia ensures to cover 100% of demonstrated financial need

While Columbia University offers numerous internal scholarships, students can also explore external opportunities, such as CUSDS and the Lemann Fellowship, to further support their studies.

Additional Scholarships at Columbia University

Besides internal scholarships, you can explore external options like the Pat Tillman Scholarship (INR 8.5L), available for U.S. military service members, veterans, and their spouses.

Columbia University also offers specific scholarships like the City Year Scholarship (40% tuition assistance) for eligible domestic and international applicants.

Here are some additional scholarships at Columbia University:

Scholarship	Details
Columbia University Scholarship for Displaced Students (CUSDS)	Eligibility: Refugees, asylum seekers, persons with humanitarian parole/SIVs/temporary protection. Academic Criteria: Admission to Columbia University. Benefits: Full funding, including tuition, housing, food, books, health insurance, local transport, and travel.
Pat Tillman Scholarship	Eligibility: U.S. military veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses. Academic Criteria: Full-time enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate/professional degree at a U.S. institution. Benefits: Up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L).
City Year Scholarship	Eligibility: City Year AmeriCorps members, alumni, or staff. Academic Criteria: Admission to Columbia College (not Columbia University). Benefits: 40% tuition scholarship, renewable with 3.0+ GPA and full-time status.
Posse Foundation Fellowship	Eligibility: Posse alumni applying for master’s degrees at Teachers College, Columbia University. Academic Criteria: Full-time enrollment; Summer or Fall entry. Benefits: Up to 2 full-tuition scholarships for 2 years.

In addition to the internal and external scholarships available, there are certain exclusions that students should be aware of when applying for financial aid at Columbia University.

Exclusions in the Columbia University Scholarship

Before applying for scholarships at Columbia University, it's crucial to understand eligibility exclusions, as some scholarships have restrictions on program type, GPA, or residency status. Knowing these exclusions helps ensure that you apply for the scholarships you're eligible for, saving time and maximizing your chances of securing funding.

For example, the Columbia University Scholarship for Displaced Students isn't available for online programs, and many scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Understanding these exclusions ensures you apply for suitable scholarships:

Exclusion Category	Details
Program Type Restrictions	Scholarships such as the Columbia University Scholarship for Displaced Students are not available for online or non-degree programs.
Minimum Academic Performance	GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Residency Visa Status	Scholarships like the GEI Scholarship (MA in Statistics) are only for U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Concurrent Scholarships	Some scholarships, such as full-tuition awards, cannot be held alongside other university scholarships that provide full funding.
Course or Major Changes	Changing your course or major after receiving a scholarship may result in the scholarship being revoked.
Study Load Requirements	Full-time enrollment is required for most scholarships. Part-time enrollment may lead to disqualification.
Completion Timeframe	Funding is tied to the standard program duration; late graduation may disqualify further support.

With the exclusion criteria in mind, you can now move forward with the application process for scholarships at Columbia University.

How to Apply for Columbia University Scholarships? A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure a successful application for Columbia University scholarships, it's essential to follow the specific procedures outlined by the institution. Applicants must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, along with any required financial documentation.

Here are the steps involved in applying for Columbia University scholarships:

Step 1: Research Available Scholarships

Before applying, it’s important to research Columbia University’s scholarships and identify those that match your academic and financial profile. This will help you plan your application effectively. Here's how to proceed:

• Visit the official Columbia Financial Aid Portal to explore available scholarships and understand the application requirements.
• Use the "How to Apply" tool to determine the specific documents needed based on your applicant type and citizenship status.
• Pay attention to deadlines and ensure you meet all the criteria for the scholarships you're interested in.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Columbia's financial aid is need-based, and eligibility is determined by evaluating your family's ability to pay for education costs. To ensure you are eligible, follow these steps:

• Review the financial aid policies to understand how your family's financial situation will be assessed.
• Ensure you meet the residency requirements for the scholarships you're applying for, as some may be limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Verify any program-specific requirements, as certain scholarships may have additional criteria.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

To apply for financial aid and scholarships, you'll need to submit several documents. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

• Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be considered for federal and institutional aid.
• Submit the CSS Profile to apply for institutional aid, including Columbia-specific scholarships.
• Provide parental tax returns and other income documentation through the College Board's IDOC service.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once you've gathered all necessary documents, submit your application. To ensure everything is in order:

• Follow the submission instructions provided in the "How to Apply" tool to ensure all materials are submitted correctly.
• Keep track of your application status and ensure the financial aid office receives all documents.
• Be aware of deadlines, as missing them can affect your eligibility for scholarships.

Step 5: Await Decisions

After submission, documents typically take 3-5 business days to be processed and reflected in the Online Financial Aid System. During this time:

• Monitor your application status through the admissions portal to ensure all documents are received and processed.
• Review your financial aid package once it's available to understand the scholarships and aid you're eligible for.
• Contact the financial aid office if you have any questions or need clarification about your award.

Once you've submitted your application, ensure you save the confirmation email and keep a local copy of your application files. This will help in case of any technical issues or disputes.

Next, it's important to understand Columbia University's scholarship selection process. This will help you manage your expectations and prepare for any additional steps or communication.

While scholarships ease the burden, knowing the full cost of U.S. education helps you plan smarter. Explore our detailed guide on the Cost of Studying in USA for Indian Students to plan your journey effectively.

How Does Columbia University Selects Scholarship Recipients?

Columbia University awards scholarships based on a combination of financial need and academic achievement. Given the university’s highly competitive 4% acceptance rate, the selection process is thorough, considering both academic performance and, in some cases, program-specific criteria.

Most scholarships are automatically considered during the admission and financial aid review process, with no separate application required.

Whether you're applying for a need-based scholarship or other financial aid, here are the key factors considered in the selection process:

Criteria	Details
Academic Record	High GPA and strong academic performance (e.g., standardized test scores) are essential for scholarships.
Personal Statement	A clear, goal-oriented personal statement that aligns with Columbia's mission.
References & Endorsements	Strong references, especially for research scholarships.
Alignment with Scholarship Goals	Applicants must show how their goals align with the scholarship's purpose (e.g., humanitarian work, leadership).
Financial Need	Required for need-based scholarships, with documentation like FAFSA.
Commitment to Service	Some scholarships require a demonstrated commitment to community or global service, like the Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship
Eligibility and Course Relevance	Scholarships are degree-specific. For instance, Posse Foundation Fellowship is only for full-time master’s students at Teachers College.

After outlining the key factors in the scholarship selection process, here's a step-by-step overview of how Columbia University typically selects scholarship recipients:

• Application Submission: Applicants submit academic records, personal statements, and financial documents (FAFSA, CSS Profile).
• Automatic Consideration: Scholarships are reviewed automatically during the admissions and financial aid evaluation process.
• Evaluation of Academic Performance: High GPA and standardized test scores are key factors for scholarship eligibility.
• Review of Financial Need: Need-based scholarships require financial documentation to assess eligibility.
• Final Selection: Scholarship recipients are chosen based on the combined evaluation of academic achievement, financial need, and alignment with the scholarship’s goals.
• Notification: Selected applicants are informed through their financial aid package.

Understanding the key factors that Columbia University considers can significantly strengthen your scholarship application. After receiving a scholarship, remaining eligible requires consistently meeting the established standards and maintaining the necessary criteria.

Let’s explore the scholarship renewal process at Columbia University and the requirements needed to keep your award.

Columbia University Scholarship: Renewal Process & Criteria

Renewing a scholarship at Columbia University is essential for students to continue receiving financial support throughout their studies. Need-based scholarship recipients must maintain a 3.0+ GPA and show ongoing financial need by submitting updated FAFSA and CSS Profile documents annually.

This process ensures that students remain committed to their academic and financial goals while meeting the university's standards.

Here’s what the renewal process typically involves:

Criteria	Details
Academic Performance	Maintain the required GPA (typically 3.0 or higher) as specified in the scholarship terms.
Enrolment Status	Enroll full-time and meet Columbia University’s requirements for full-time study. (12+ credits for undergraduates and 9+ credits for most graduates)
Course Progression	Students must complete at least 67% of attempted credits each semester to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
Compliance with University Policies	Adhere to Columbia’s academic codes, conduct standards, and any specific scholarship rules.

Columbia University requires students to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to retain their financial aid, including scholarships. If these meet the required standards, your scholarship will be renewed.

Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in the renewal process:

• Step 1: Monitor Academic Performance:
  • Keep a 3.0 GPA or higher as specified in the scholarship terms.
  • If it's lower, take steps to improve your academic standing.
• Step 2: Confirm Full-time Enrollment:
  • Verify that you're enrolled full-time (12+ credits for undergraduates, 9+ credits for most graduates) each semester.
  • If you're below the required credits, make adjustments to your schedule.
• Step 3: Submit Updated Financial Documents:
  • Annually submit your updated FAFSA and CSS Profile to confirm your continued financial need.
• Step 4: Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress:
  • Complete at least 67% of attempted credits each semester.
• Step 5: Adhere to University Policies:
  • Follow all academic codes, conduct standards, and any specific scholarship terms to remain eligible for renewal.
• Step 6: Stay Informed:
  • Regularly check for updates or changes in scholarship policies and deadlines, and communicate with the financial aid office as needed.

By consistently monitoring these requirements and frequently assessing your progress, you can effectively preserve your scholarship at Columbia University.

Maintaining eligibility is crucial to keeping your scholarship, but it's also important to recognize the full value these awards provide. In addition to tuition coverage, many scholarships at Columbia University offer further benefits that can support your academic success.

Columbia University Scholarships: Additional Coverage and Support

Columbia University scholarships offer more than just financial aid. They provide additional support such as mentoring, research opportunities, exclusive resources, and, for eligible students, full tuition coverage.

Students from families earning under $150,000 (INR 1.2cr) with typical assets may qualify for a tuition-free education, with no loans included in financial aid packages.

These awards go beyond covering tuition. They help build confidence and unlock new opportunities for growth. Here are some of the additional benefits Columbia University scholarships often include:

• Graduate Equity Initiative (GEI) Scholarship: Supports diversity by offering full or partial tuition assistance for MA students in the Statistics Department, along with priority placement in teaching assistant positions.
• MA2PhD Merit Scholarship: Provides mentorship, research opportunities, and access to doctoral-level courses for students who plan to transition to PhD programs after completing their MA.
• Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) Leadership Alliance Summer Research Program: Offers a $5,000 (INR 4.2L) stipend for undergraduate students conducting graduate-level research with Columbia faculty, helping them gain experience in academia.
• Columbia Mentoring Initiative (CMI): Connects students with mentors and alumni to foster leadership development, academic success, and personal growth.

Maintaining eligibility ensures continued funding for your degree. Meeting GPA, enrollment, and update requirements shows academic progress, allowing Columbia to support your success.

For a comprehensive understanding of the costs and fees involved in pursuing a degree at Columbia, explore the Columbia University Courses & Fees to plan your educational journey effectively.

Now that you understand the true value a scholarship offers, let’s explore how you can boost your chances of securing one. This is where platforms like upGrad can help, guiding the application process.

How Can upGrad Help You Get a Scholarship at Columbia University?

Applying for a scholarship at Columbia University can be overwhelming due to the numerous forms, deadlines, and documents required. upGrad simplifies this process by guiding you through each step, ensuring you focus on crafting a strong application and selecting the right scholarships for your goals.

upGrad matches you with scholarships based on your course, background, and aspirations, helping you avoid wasting time. The platform also provides expert support in refining your SOP and LOR, increasing your chances of success.

In addition, upGrad takes care of all necessary documentation, ensuring it's completed correctly and submitted on time. Beyond the application process, upGrad also offers visa guidance, accommodation planning, and study abroad support, ensuring a smooth transition to Columbia University.

Unsure about Columbia University scholarships? Book a free one-on-one session with upGrad for personalized guidance on your profile, course, and scholarship options.