Generally you will receive your funds during the first two weeks of classes. Refunds are determined based on any credit remaining after all expected funding has been applied to your student account to cover your tuition, fees and other charges that may be on your account. The University will issue a refund either via direct deposit—you can select this option online (it requires entering your personal banking information)—or a paper check. Refunds are initially processed during the first two weeks of school, and then processed throughout the year whenever credit balances appear. NOTE: New students should come to school with enough money to see them through the first 2-3 weeks. For various reasons, some students may not receive a refund until week 3 or 4 of classes. Most students will receive their refunds near the end of the second week of classes.

If you need more money at any point during the year and have remaining “alternative eligibility” in your financial aid, you must submit another PLUS Loan Request Form or apply for a private loan to borrow up to the total amount of that remaining “alternative eligibility.” If you have maxed out on your aid and received all for which you are currently eligible, please make an appointment with our Office of Financial Aid so that we can assess your situation and need for funding.

If you have further questions about refunds or additional funds, you are welcome to contact the Office of Financial Aid at:
E-mail: swfinaid@columbia.edu
Telephone: 212-851-2293
Counseling:

• By appointment: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. (After 5:00 p.m., appointments available by request.) Go to online appointment system.
• Walk-in: Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.)