Columbia University 2026 Public Service Scholarship

This scholarship reflects our enduring belief in the transformative power of public leadership. It is awarded to students who have shown a steadfast commitment to advancing the public good, whether through government, nonprofit work, international service, or cross-sector innovation. Rather than requiring a formal service obligation, we aim to ignite a lifelong commitment to making a difference. Our goal is to invest in bold, value-driven leaders and equip them to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges with integrity, vision, and purpose. Through this fellowship, we support those who will continue driving equity, justice, and meaningful change long after their time at SIPA.

• Table of Content
• About Columbia University
• Public Service Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of Public Service Scholarship
• Public Service Scholarship Courses
• Requirements for Public Service Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

Public Service Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of Public Service Scholarship

Up to 65% tuition scholarship support.

Public Service Scholarship Courses

• Development Practice
• Economic Policy Management
• Environmental Science and Policy
• Global Leadership
• International Affairs
• Public Administration

Requirements for Public Service Scholarship Qualification

Apply to one of the following programs:

• Fall 2026 entry term: Master of International Affairs (MIA), Master of Public Administration (MPA) and MPA in Development Practice (MPA-DP).
• Summer 2026 entry term: MPA in Global Leadership, MPA in Economic Policy Management, MPA in Environmental Science and Policy
• US citizen or permanent resident
• Minimum of 3 years full-time professional experience in U.S. public service (e.g., federal, state, local government, military, or national service like AmeriCorps/Peace Corps, & 501(c)(3) organizations).
• Cumulative minimum GPA of 3.4
• Selection based on leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to return to service post?graduation.
• If selected, you will be required to enroll in the program you are admitted to on a full-time basis.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details, visit Columbia University Scholarship webpage