As an aspiring international student, I'm trying to find out what sort of scholarships Columbia University offers. Does anyone know if they provide financial support specifically for international students? Any details about requirements or deadlines would be greatly appreciated.
Columbia University is committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all applicants admitted as first-year students, including international students. This policy is called "need-based aid," meaning that the financial awards are granted based on the fiscal requirements of the student.
Being a need-blind institution, Columbia does not consider the ability of applicants to pay when making admissions decisions. So, if you're accepted, they pledge to cover your demonstrated need, whether you're a domestic or international student.
The process for applying for financial aid at Columbia as an international student is very similar to that of a domestic student. You would need to complete the CSS profile, which will help Columbia to understand your financial circumstances. The CSS profile has a submission deadline usually around mid-February, but I would recommend checking the official website for the most accurate and current dates.
Keep in mind, international students are not eligible for U.S. federal or state financial aid programs. Also, the university notes that pursuing a need-based financial aid application might limit your options to apply for Early Decision, so check details on that as well.
Remember, every university’s financial aid policies are different, especially when it comes to aid for international students. It would be beneficial to explore any outside scholarships for which you might be eligible. Websites like Appily and scholarships.com can be a good start in your search for additional funding. If you're in high school, your school counselor might also have information about local scholarships available in your country. I hope this helps!
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