Does Columbia College require anything specific for merit scholarships?

I'm applying to Columbia College and want to maximize my chances for a merit scholarship. Are there specific requirements or criteria I should be aware of, like certain academic achievements or involvement in activities?

Columbia College, as part of Columbia University, doesn't offer merit-based scholarships. Instead, their financial aid policy is entirely need-based, and it's designed to ensure all admitted students can afford to attend. In other words, if you're admitted to Columbia, they'll meet 100% of your demonstrated financial need.

Their assessment of need is comprehensive - it takes into account your family's income, assets, and circumstances, ensuring an individualized financial aid package that can bring Columbia's cost within reach. Moreover, Columbia has a 'no loan' policy, replacing student loans with grant aid that does not need to be paid back.

For your financial aid application, you'll need to submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), the CSS Profile, and your parents' federal income tax returns. This comprehensive information will help them assess your need and develop a suitable financial aid package if admitted.

While there are no merit-based scholarships at Columbia College, remember that a strong academic record and extracurricular involvement can increase your chances of admission, which in turn gives you access to their generous need-based financial aid. So, continue to strive for high academic achievements and stay active in the activities you're passionate about!