How to Apply for Aid

Prospective Students

Thank you for your interest in Teachers College, Columbia University! Funding your education may be one of the biggest challenges you encounter as a student, and requires early planning and a thorough understanding of available resources. The Office of Financial Aid is committed to collaborating with you through this process, and to providing straightforward guidance and support to help you identify and secure the resources you may need to achieve your goals. Please find some details of our financial aid process below.

How to Apply

Students may apply for financial aid through the TC Scholarship Application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is available for students who are interested in applying for federal student loans and Federal Work Study. International students are not eligible for federal student loans, but may be eligible for other forms of institutional aid or can apply for a private loan.

The TC Scholarship Application is accessed through the application for admission. To receive priority consideration for scholarships, you are encouraged to submit the application for admission by the priority program deadlines.

  • Master's Degree applicants for the Summer 2024 and Fall 2024 terms are encouraged to submit the application by January 15th.
  • Ph.D. applicants for the Fall 2024 term are encouraged to submit the application by December 1st.
  • Ed.D. applicants for the Fall 2024 term are encouraged to submit the application by December 1st.

Special scholarships may have additional steps and their own respective deadlines. Please refer to your admissions application for any supplemental information.

The FAFSA is required for students who wish to qualify for all forms of federal aid, such as Federal TEACH Grant, Federal Work Study, and Federal Student Loans. To complete the FAFSA, visit studentaid.gov and use the TC school code: G03979.

Types of Assistance Available

Teachers College offers a variety of funding resources including merit and/or need-based scholarships, fellowships, student employment opportunities as well as federal student aid. Veterans Benefits and external scholarship opportunities are also available to eligible applicants.

View types of aid

How Much Will My Education Cost?

The actual cost of your education will vary based on your program of study, education plans, and lifestyle.  

View tuition and fees

Help & Contact Us

Our FAQ page can address any common questions you may have on aid eligibility, policies and procedures.

We invite you to contact the Office of Financial Aid with any further questions. 

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