Columbia Chicago and Financial Aid

I'm interested in applying to Columbia College Chicago, but I'm not sure about the financial side of things. Can anyone share their experience with financial aid at this college? It'll really help me gauge if it's a feasible option for me.

Columbia College Chicago offers both need-based and merit-based financial aid. In terms of need-based aid, they use information from your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your financial need. If you're wondering how much aid you might be eligible for, I'd recommend using Columbia College Chicago's Net Price Calculator (https://www.colum.edu/columbia-central/where-to-start/cost-of-attendance/). It should give you a ballpark estimate of the financial aid package you might receive.

If we look at statistics, Columbia College Chicago is quite generous when it comes to financial aid. Most recent data shows that nearly 90% of full-time undergraduate students receive some kind of need-based financial aid. The average need-based scholarship or grant award is quite high.

As for merit-based aid, the college offers numerous scholarships for freshmen and transfer students awarded on the basis of academic excellence, talent in the arts, and various other criteria.

However, like all colleges, it's important to note that oftentimes grants and scholarships may not cover all costs associated with attending college. So, while financial aid can greatly help, you may still have to consider other options like federal student loans, personal savings, work-study opportunities or private loans to cover the remainder.

In conclusion, while Columbia College Chicago does offer substantial financial aid, every student's situation is different. Hence, it is advisable to apply for financial aid, explore all possible scholarships and grants, and use the Net Price Calculator to get a more personalized estimate of your potential financial aid package.