Columbia University School of General Studies (nontraditional and transfer students)

Columbia University School of General Studies

Deadline: March 1, 2027

Amount

Need-based GS scholarships open to non-citizens via the CSS Profile (limited, not full need). CUNY community college transfers get $5,000 per semester for up to 4 semesters

Location

New York, NY

Cost

Free

Class level

Community college, Freshman, Sophomore, Junior

GS is Columbia's undergraduate college for students with a break in their education or a nontraditional path, including community college transfers. Non-citizens apply for GS aid with the CSS Profile only, and CUNY community college transfers are considered automatically for a dedicated scholarship.

Why it matters

An Ivy League bachelor's degree in New York City, with two entry terms a year and institutional aid explicitly open to students who are not citizens or permanent residents, even though GS cannot meet full need.

Who can apply

U.S. citizensGreen-card holdersDACA / TPSUndocumented studentsInternational students (F-1 and other visas)Refugees and asylees

The GS scholarships page says international students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents do not need the FAFSA to receive institutional aid and submit the CSS Profile instead. It also says GS institutional aid is limited and cannot meet the full need of students.

Eligibility

For students who took a break of a year or more from education or have compelling reasons for a nontraditional path. Transfer applicants with college credit are welcome, and admitted students average a 3.7–3.8 GPA. English proficiency test for non-native speakers without English-medium schooling. SAT/ACT scores or the online GS admissions exam ($50 exam fee).

What you need

• Nontraditional path or break in education
• All college transcripts
• SAT/ACT or the GS online admissions exam
• English proficiency test if applicable
• CSS Profile for institutional aid

How to apply

Apply through the GS online application with transcripts from all colleges, test scores or the GS admissions exam, essays and recommendations. File the CSS Profile (code 2095) for GS institutional aid.

Fall 2027: application opens December 1. Priority Early Action January 15, Early Action March 1, Regular Decision May 15, 2027. Spring 2027 Regular Decision closed November 1, 2026. Fee waiver request available on the checklist.