The Columbia HBCU Fellowship Program is accepting applications for Fall 2027, offering HBCU seniors and recent graduates a full tuition scholarship, housing, and a stipend for a Master of Science degree at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies. The final deadline is January 7, 2027, though an earlier November 13 date can speed up the Master’s admission decision.
About the Columbia HBCU Fellowship
The School of Professional Studies runs the program to prepare high-performing HBCU graduates to lead, innovate, and drive community impact in their industries. It pairs academic study with mentorship, networking, and career development, and it connects Fellows to the wider Columbia network and a growing alumni community.
Applicants must submit two separate applications, one for an eligible full-time, on-campus Master of Science program and one for the fellowship itself. Fellowship decisions arrive in mid-March 2027.
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Funding Size
- Full tuition scholarship for three consecutive semesters covering fall, spring, and summer
- Student housing for all three terms through Columbia Housing
- A semesterly stipend, with the amount not stated
- Internship and mentorship opportunities with School of Professional Studies corporate and sector partners
- The number of fellowships has not been published
Who Can Apply
- Current seniors or recent graduates of HBCUs as defined by the U.S. Department of Education
- Graduates whose bachelor’s degree was conferred in 2025 or later
- Applicants to a full-time, on-campus Master of Science program for Fall 2027
- International students, who should confirm visa requirements with Columbia
Geographic Eligibility
- Applicants must come from a U.S. HBCU, though international students are eligible
- The program is based on campus in New York City
Sector or Thematic Focus
- Eligible master’s fields include actuarial science, applied analytics, bioethics, and enterprise risk management
- Human capital management, nonprofit management, project management, and sports management
- Sustainability, technology management, strategic communication, and political analytics
- Leadership, civic engagement, and community service
Application Process
Applicants apply through the School of Professional Studies portal, submitting both a Master’s application and a separate fellowship application. The fellowship application carries no fee, and the Master’s fee is waived for eligible applicants.
Required Materials
- A statement of purpose of up to 750 words
- An optional supplemental essay of up to 300 words
- A video essay of 90 seconds or less
- A letter of support from an HBCU faculty or staff member
- A resume
Key Dates
- First Master’s deadline: November 13, 2026, which is optional
- Final deadline for both applications: January 7, 2027
- Fellowship decisions: mid-March 2027
- Enrollment deadline for admitted students awaiting a decision: April 15, 2027
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Selection Notes
- Reviewers look for academic merit, leadership, and civic engagement
- Admitted applicants who miss the fellowship can ask to defer and reapply
- Decisions are final and cannot be appealed
- Applicants should explore other aid if they are not selected