The Vagelos Scholarship Program at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons provides need-based financial aid to eligible medical students, helping make medical education accessible regardless of financial background. The program meets 100% of demonstrated financial need through scholarships rather than loans.
Scholarship Details
- Covers 100% of demonstrated financial need for eligible MD students
- Need-based aid package does not include loans
- Available to both new and continuing medical students
- Supports tuition, fees, living expenses, and other approved educational costs
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an eligible MD student at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
- Must submit complete financial aid applications
- Financial need is determined using FAFSA and CSS Profile information
- Family income, assets, household size, and other financial factors are considered
Application Process
- Submit a complete financial aid application.
- Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile forms.
- Provide all required financial documentation.
- Demonstrate financial need based on Columbia’s aid assessment process.
- Eligible students are automatically considered for scholarship funding.
The scholarship fund is supported by an endowment that was established by Dr. P. Roy and Diana Vagelos. The couple has committed more than $300 million to Columbia, $150 million of which was directed toward the scholarship fund endowment. With this funding from Dr. and Mrs. Vagelos, as well as additional support from other generous alumni, faculty, and friends, the medical school launched the scholarship program for new and continuing eligible MD students, beginning in the 2018-19 year.
