Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

Columbia graduates leave medical school with an average of $114,362 in education debt — 46% below the national average of $212,341 for the class of 2024. This figure comes from the AAMC Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) database and reflects only graduates who borrowed — students who received full scholarships are excluded.

The private school national average for the class of 2024 was $227,839. Columbia sits below that benchmark.

Roughly 14% of Columbia graduates finished with no debt — through scholarships, family support, or in-state cost advantages. For the 86%who do borrow, loan strategy becomes one of the most consequential financial decisions of their career. The difference between choosing PSLF vs. aggressive payoff can easily be six figures over a physician's career.

If you plan to work at a nonprofit or academic medical center — which includes most major teaching hospitals — PSLF is worth modeling seriously. At $114,362 average debt, graduates pursuing PSLF would pay approximately $213,888 over 10 years before the remaining balance is forgiven tax-free. Compare that to $190,159 under aggressive payoff.

If you plan private practice or a high-income specialty without PSLF-qualifying employment, aggressive payoff or refinancing typically wins. Post-residency payments of ~$1,585/month for 10 years leaves you debt-free and maximizes long-term net worth.