Columbia University Student Financial Services

Columbia University is transitioning to the Direct Loan Program for the 2010-2011 academic year.  The information on this page applies to the 2009-2010 academic year. For more information on the transition, visit the Direct Loan Transition page. 

All students whose financial aid packages include federal loans (the Federal Stafford, Federal Unsubsidized Stafford, Federal GradPLUS or the Federal Perkins) are required to complete an Entrance Interview before the disbursement of their loans and are required to complete an Exit Interview prior to leaving the University.

Your school may require you to attend “in person” Entrance and Exit Interviews. Please check additional requirements with your school’s financial aid office.

Entrance Interview

• Explains the rights and responsibilities of federal loan borrowers

• Paperwork must be completed before any federal loan funds are disbursed to your student account via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

• Can be completed online through Student Services Online (SSOL)

Exit Interview

• Explains the rights and responsibilities of federal loan borrowers

• An exit interview is required when a student graduates, drops below part-time status, or withdraws from the University

• Students who do not complete an exit interview may have their diploma and transcripts placed on hold

• Can be completed online through Student Services Online (SSOL)