Started in 2015, the Deans’ Student Assistance Fund (DSAF) is primarily intended for undergraduate[1] Columbia Grant recipients with a Columbia Parent Contribution of approximately $6,000 or less. Eligible students with one-time and unanticipated term-time emergency expenses are encouraged to apply for assistance.
Examples for which DSAF could be requested include, but are not limited to, travel home for a family emergency or unexpected health care costs.
Please note that DSAF cannot be used to cover expenses already factored in to the Cost of Attendance (tuition, fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, travel and personal expenses).
To apply for grants awarded through this fund, students will meet with a Financial Aid Officer to discuss their particular need and how best to meet it. Financial aid officers are also available to work with students on future financial planning. Financial support accessed through this fund does not need to be repaid.
DSAF FAQs
- How will I know if I am eligible to apply for DSAF? Eligible students will be notified via email at the beginning of each semester. Columbia Grant recipients with a Columbia Parent Contribution of approximately $5,000 or less should consider applying for eligible expenses; other students will be considered on a case by case basis.
- If I did not receive a notice of DSAF eligibility at the beginning of the semester, may I still apply for DSAF? DSAF is primarily intended to assist Columbia Grant recipients with a Columbia Parent Contribution of approximately $6,000 or less; other students will be considered on a case by case basis. If you have an emergency expense, please contact our office so that we can offer guidance and determine if DSAF or another solution will be available.
- Can I make more than one request for DSAF funds? Yes, eligible students may make multiple requests for DSAF funds. Students who experience multiple emergency medical or emergency travel situations are encouraged to reach out about each situation. Certain requests such as for cold weather clothing are limited.
- Can I use DSAF to pay my E-Bill? No, please note that the Dean’s Student Assistance Fund cannot be used to cover expenses already factored in to the Cost of Attendance (tuition, fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, travel and personal expenses).
Students who wish to apply for support through DSAF are invited to e-mail or schedule an appointment with our staff in order to discuss their situation.
[1] The Deans’ Student Assistance Fund is available to eligible undergraduates currently enrolled in Columbia College and Columbia Engineering. Undergraduate students of Barnard College, School of General Studies, School of Nursing and post-baccalaureate students at the School of Professional Studies should contact their respective financial aid offices to inquire about possible funding for emergency expenses.