Frequently Asked Questions: What Students Should Know About Columbia iGrad

 

What is Columbia iGrad?

iGrad is a free, web-based financial literacy platform that provides lifetime personalized financial wellness education and loan management resources to users at hundreds of colleges and universities nationwide — and it’s now available to all Columbia students at Columbia.igrad.comStudents can use it now and after they graduate, for as long as they want it without ever paying a fee.

What resources are available to me through Columbia iGrad?

iGrad offers an array of interactive tools, video tutorials, webinars, quizzes, articles and other resources to help you:

  • Manage your money, including your credit, savings and investments
  • Create a budget or a financial plan
  • Learn about personal finances, such as mortgages, car loans and credit cards
  • Track your student loans
  • Search for scholarships (filter results by study or interest area, requirements, etc.)
  • Understand the types of financial aid available to undergraduates and graduate students
  • Plan for retirement

Why is Columbia partnering with iGrad? 

We teamed up with iGrad because we know that understanding and managing your finances is an important part of your overall well-being. The resources available through iGrad can help you learn to better manage your personal finances and student loans so you can more confidently plan your financial future.

HOW IT WORKS

How do I obtain an iGrad account?

Go to Columbia.igrad.com and click the “get started” button. You’ll be taken to a sign-up form requiring your name, Columbia University email address, student ID and Columbia school. Once you complete that short process, you’ll get a welcome email from iGrad.

How does iGrad provide me with personalized recommendations?

Once you create your account, you’ll be asked a few questions about your goals and financial habits. iGrad will use your responses to provide financial information specific to your needs.

Is iGrad free to use?

Yes. All Columbia University students may use iGrad for free. And because your long-term financial well-being is important to us, Columbia iGrad will remain available for all students to use for free, for life.

Do I have to download an app?

No. iGrad is a web-based platform that’s accessible from your computer, mobile phone or tablet, so there’s no download needed. Just go to Columbia.igrad.com from the browser of your device to use the platform. You can choose to add iGrad to your home screen for easy access.

What does iGrad do with my personal information?

iGrad collects certain user data for legitimate business purposes, including to send emails, enable community-related features and request feedback. Read the full privacy policy.

How does iGrad ensure the accuracy of its content? 

iGrad does extensive research to create content that undergoes several levels of review by an internal editorial team and external subject matter and compliance experts.

WHO CAN USE COLUMBIA iGRAD

Is iGrad available to all Columbia students?

iGrad is available for free to all current Columbia University students.

I am a Barnard or Teachers College student. Can I use iGrad?

iGrad is currently available only to Columbia University students. 

I’m an international student. Can I use iGrad?

Yes! iGrad has information and resources on a range of topics for international students, including:

  • Tips for financing a U.S. education
  • Cost and tips for getting a U.S. visa
  • Housing options and costs for international students 

HOW TO PROVIDE FEEDBACK

How can I provide feedback or recommendations on iGrad content?

We welcome user feedback! Please write to [email protected] to share your ideas and suggestions.

TROUBLESHOOTING AND TECHNICAL QUESTIONS

I forgot my password. What should I do?

Go to Columbia.igrad.edu and click “log in” in the upper right corner. At the bottom of the log-in form, choose “need password help” and follow the instructions for resetting your password. If you still need help, you can choose the “submit an account recovery request” at the bottom of the password reset screen. 

I’m having other technical trouble on the site. What should I do?

We’re sorry you’re having trouble! Please write to [email protected] to report the issue and we’ll respond to you within 24 hours.