Columbia University
Mailman School of Public Health
Prospective Students

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Financial Aid FAQ

Financial Aid

What is the cost of attendance at the School?

Please visit our Tuition and Fees page.
When should I apply for financial aid?

FAFSA applications can be filed as early as January 2nd. Your completed FAFSA must be in our office by February 1st in order to be given full consideration for institutional aid for the upcoming Fall semester. Applicants may submit an income estimate; upon completing your taxes you will be able to update the FAFSA.  You will be notified when the new and updated supplemental and institutional application is released however please continue to check our website for updated information.
What sources of financial aid are available?

Most of the financial support awarded through the Mailman School is available only to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible non-citizens. It includes:

  • University General Income Awards
  • U.S. Public Health Service Traineeship Awards 
  • Federal Loans:
  • Perkins Loans
  • Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
  • Graduate PLUS Loans
  • Federal Work-Study
Are half-time students eligible for financial aid?

It varies, depending on the source of financial aid requested. At a minimum, half-time students must register for at least six credits to be considered for financial aid.
Are there any types of financial assistance that are not exclusively need-based?

Yes. Such types of support include:

  • Teaching Assistantships:Provided by academic departments (limited availability).
  • Graduate Research Assistantships:Provided by academic departments; usually not available to students during their first semester.
  • Department-Based Training Grants:Contact your academic department program administrator for details.
  • Public Health Scholars Program:Available to individuals employed by the New York City or the New York State Departments of Health. For more information please contact the Financial Aid Office.
What types of financial aid are available for international students?
  • Teaching Assistantships
  • Graduate Research Assistantships
  • International students are also encouraged to ascertain if support is available from their country or from international agencies such as the World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, or Rotary International.
  • Alternative Loans

See list of programs and countries offering support to international students.
Does the Financial Aid office offer advice on budgeting?

Yes. Our financial aid advisors can work with you to help plan a budget that manages your expenses while taking into consideration your loan amounts. Students who seek advice on budgeting, student expenditures, students’ actual need, and loan repayment plans and programs after graduation.
What documents do I need to submit to be considered for "need-based" financial aid?