Financial Aid

At Columbia International University (CIU), we are committed to making education affordable for all our students—whether you're an undergraduate, graduate, online, or seminary student. Our comprehensive financial aid packages are designed to help you achieve your academic and professional goals without financial barriers. 

Explore Your Options

Undergraduate On Campus Students>>  

We offer a variety of scholarships, grants, and loans to help you finance your education. From Merit-Based Awards to Athletic Scholarships, Ministry Gap Year Scholarship, Out of State Scholarship, and MORE...CIU provides opportunities for you to reduce the cost of your undergraduate degree with scholarships ranging from $2,000 to 100% tuition per year.   

Online, Graduate, and Seminary Students>>  

With scholarships, grants, and federal aid available, you can pursue your degree from anywhere while still benefiting from CIU’s financial support. Our financial aid packages are tailored to those pursuing business, education, or leadership as well as those currently serving or preparing for ministry. Scholarships range from $1,500 to $3,000. Additionally, the $1,500 Full-time Ministry Scholarship is available to Pastors and Missionaries actively serving in ministry. 

Applying for Financial Aid

1.  CIU Admissions Application

Complete the application online.

2. Complete the FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid

The quickest way to apply for federal aid is online. You’ll need CIU’s school code which is 003429.

• You will also need a new Federal Student Aid ID and password.
• If you are a dependent student, one parent (whose information is on the FAFSA) also will need an FSA ID to sign the application electronically. We have a list of FAFSA tips to help you with this process.

Within approximately two weeks after completing the FAFSA, you will receive an email from the CIU Financial Aid Office.

3.  Complete the missing Financial Aid File documents.

• Log in to MyCIU and go to Financial Aid.
• On the left hand side, click on "My Financial Aid," then click on the "Menu," then "Documents." Submit any missing documents. 
• You do not need to submit loan documents (entrance counseling and master promissory note) if you don't plan to use student loans.
• If you are selected by the Department of Education for verification, complete and submit the necessary documents.

4.  Accept and/or Decline Awards

You will receive a notification of award via email. You will need to log in to MyCIU and accept or decline the financial aid awards offered.

Invest in Your Future with CIU

Financial aid is more than just a means to pay for college—it's an investment in your future. At CIU, we're committed to partnering with you to make your educational journey as affordable and accessible as possible. Don’t let financial concerns hold you back from pursuing your calling. Start your financial aid journey today! 

Contact Us  

Ask us a question or request more details. Be sure to include your student CIU ID so that we can provide the best customer service experience. Our office is available Monday - Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.  

• Phone: (803) 807-5036 
• Email: finaid@ciu.edu 
• Location: CIU Administration Building, 7435 Monticello Rd, Columbia SC 29203