Columbia SIPA and Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo announce New Public Service Scholarship for Fall 2026 Applicants

New York, NY – Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) and Dean Keren Yarhi-Milo are proud to announce the creation of the SIPA Public Service Scholarship, a new fellowship program that will provide substantial financial support to outstanding students committed to advancing the public good.

Beginning with the fall 2026 admissions cycle, eligible Master of International Affairs (MIA), Master of Public Administration (MPA), and Master of Public Administration in Development Practice (MPA-DP) applicants who are US citizens or permanent residents will have the opportunity to apply. 

The fellowship underscores SIPA’s enduring mission to prepare principled, bold leaders for careers in public service. Awards will cover up to 65 percent of tuition, enabling recipients to pursue their graduate studies full-time while deepening their commitment to service in government, the nonprofit sector, or related fields.

“At SIPA, we believe public service is more than a career, it’s a calling,” said Keren Yarhi-Milo, Dean of Columbia SIPA. “This new Scholarship reflects our deep commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders who will drive meaningful change, strengthen communities and advance peace and complex problem solving around the most pressing global challenges. We are honored to support students who dedicate their lives to serving others, and we hope this fellowship ignites a lifelong pursuit of the public good.”

Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents with a minimum of three years of full-time professional experience in public service—including the US government at any level (federal, state, local, or tribal), the military, the non-profit sector, or national service programs such as AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Candidates will be selected based on leadership, academic excellence, and a demonstrated dedication to returning to public service following graduation.

In addition to significant tuition support, recipients will have access to Research Assistantship opportunities during their second year, providing valuable professional development and engagement with SIPA faculty, fellows, and research scholars.

Prospective students can indicate their interest in the Public Service Scholarship when submitting their SIPA admissions application, along with a supplemental essay and letters of recommendation. Applications must be received by December 20, 2025 for consideration.

Learn more about SIPA's Public Service Scholarship or apply for fall 2026. 

For questions, contact SIPA Financial Aid at [email protected]