Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), under the leadership of Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo, has launched the SIPA Public Service Scholarship. This new fellowship program will provide significant financial support to outstanding students who are dedicated to advancing the public good through careers in government, nonprofit leadership, and international service.

Beginning with the Fall 2026 admissions cycle, eligible applicants to the Master of International Affairs (MIA), Master of Public Administration (MPA), and Master of Public Administration in Development Practice (MPA-DP) programs will be able to apply. The scholarship will cover up to 65 percent of tuition, enabling students to pursue graduate studies full-time while preparing for impactful careers in public service.

Commitment to Public Service Leadership

“At SIPA, we believe public service is more than a career—it is a calling,” said Keren Yarhi-Milo, Dean of Columbia SIPA. “This new scholarship reflects our commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders who will drive meaningful change, strengthen communities, and address pressing global challenges. We are honored to support students who dedicate their lives to serving others.”

The SIPA Public Service Scholarship underscores Columbia’s mission to cultivate bold, principled leaders equipped to solve complex international and domestic challenges.

Scholarship Benefits

• Up to 65% tuition support for full-time graduate study

• Research Assistantship opportunities during the second year, providing hands-on academic and professional experience

• Access to SIPA’s global network of faculty, fellows, and policymakers

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents

• Apply to MIA, MPA, or MPA-DP programs for Fall 2026 (or select summer-entry MPA programs)

• Have at least three years of full-time professional experience in U.S. public service (e.g., federal, state, local, or tribal government, military service, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, or 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations)

• Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4

• Demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a clear commitment to return to public service after graduation

Application Process

1. Submit a SIPA admissions application by December 20, 2025

2. Indicate interest in the Public Service Scholarship on the application

3. Provide a supplemental essay outlining motivation for public service and long-term career goals

4. Submit letters of recommendation from public sector supervisors or colleagues

5. Complete the FAFSA (Columbia code: 00270)

Award decisions will be communicated at the time of admission.

Post-Graduation Commitment

The Public Service Scholarship is designed to support students who embody the values of public leadership, community commitment, and social responsibility. While the program does not impose a formal service obligation, recipients are expected to continue advancing the public good in their professional careers after graduation.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: December 20, 2025

• Program start date: Fall 2026 (with summer 2026 entry for select MPA programs)

About Columbia SIPA

Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs is a world leader in public policy and global affairs education. Through its interdisciplinary programs, SIPA prepares graduates to address critical issues in international relations, economic policy, sustainable development, and governance. Its mission is to equip future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Learn More

For more details about the Public Service Scholarship, visit Columbia SIPA’s official website. For questions, contact the SIPA Office of Financial Aid at sipa_finaid@sipa.columbia.edu.