Individuals who worked for Columbia University between Oct. 7, 2023, and July 23, 2025, may be eligible to receive a cash payment from a class action settlement.
Overview
Columbia University agreed to pay $21,000,000 to resolve allegations brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The EEOC alleged that the university engaged in unlawful employment practices, including discrimination and harassment based on religion, race, and national origin, as well as retaliation against employees who reported such conduct.
Current or former employees, including student employees, who believe they experienced harassment or discrimination based on Jewish faith, Jewish ancestry, or Israeli national origin during the covered period may qualify to submit a claim for compensation.
Who Can File a Claim
To be eligible, individuals must meet all of the following criteria:
- They were employed by Columbia University in the United States at some point between Oct. 7, 2023, and July 23, 2025.
- They believe they were subjected to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation during their employment because they practice Judaism, are Jewish, and/or are Israeli.
- Former student employees who graduated but were employed by Columbia University during the covered period are eligible.
Additional Details
The EEOC will review all submitted claims to determine whether individuals have viable claims for discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on religion, race, or national origin.
Eligibility is not automatic. The EEOC has sole discretion to determine whether a claimant qualifies and, if so, the amount of compensation awarded.
The EEOC may contact claimants to request additional information as part of its review.
Compensation Amount
Individual payment amounts are not predetermined. The settlement establishes a $21,000,000 fund to compensate eligible employees. Award amounts will depend on the number of valid claims submitted and the EEOC’s evaluation of the merits of each claim.
How to File a Claim
Eligible individuals must complete and submit a claim form to participate. Claims may be filed online or by mailing a completed PDF claim form.
Mailing address:
EEOC v. Columbia University
c/o CPT Group Inc.
P.O. Box 19504
Irvine, CA 92623
Required Information and Documentation
All claimants must provide basic identifying and employment information, including contact details, Social Security number, and dates of employment.
Claimants must also provide:
- Columbia University locations worked and job titles held
- A description of the alleged discriminatory conduct, including dates, frequency, and the identity of the alleged harasser or harassers
- Information about any complaints made and how the university responded
- Details regarding any mental or physical harm or lost pay and benefits
The EEOC may request additional information to evaluate a claim.
Important Date
- Claim deadline: June 2, 2026
Payout Timing
A specific payout date has not been announced. The EEOC will determine eligibility and award amounts after reviewing all submitted claims.
Reason for the Settlement
The EEOC alleged that since at least Oct. 7, 2023, Columbia University engaged in a pattern or practice of harassment based on national origin, religion, or race in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Columbia University denied wrongdoing and agreed to resolve the matter voluntarily to avoid prolonged litigation, without admitting liability.
Key Details at a Glance
Settlement amount: $21 million
Potential award: Varies
Claim deadline: June 2, 2026
