HIV Testing and Treatment

Last updated: 9/12/2023

Testing for the HIV antibody is provided through Alice! Health Promotion's Gay Health Advocacy Project (GHAP)

  • Open to everyone at Columbia—The service is available to all students, staff, and faculty on the Morningside/Manhattanville campus regardless of gender or orientation.
  • No cost —You do not have to pay nor will your insurance plan be charged when you receive STI testing at Columbia Health.
  • Client-centered—Peer counselors are sensitive to your situation, whether it’s your first test or routine testing. They will tailor the session to your needs.
  • Informational—GHAP Advocates  welcome questions about HIV, STIs, vaccines, and safer sex.
  • Non-judgmental—Our goal is to support you through your testing experience and provide you with accurate information.
  • Confidential—Columbia Health upholds strict levels of confidentiality and all advocates are HIPAA-certified.

For students with a known or likely exposure to HIV, GHAP can facilitate further testing, post-exposure prophylaxis, and professional support.

Drop-in Hours

During the academic year, Columbia Health offers sexual and reproductive health drop-in hours where students can receive HIV antibody testing. 

Consult with an Advocate

Even if you are not sure that you want a test, you can come in and talk with a peer advocate. Trained advocates from GHAP will work with you to understand confusing and sometimes anxiety-provoking information about HIV and its transmission. We can help you assess and reduce your risk of HIV infection and provide information about the transmission, treatment, and prevention of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well. Advocates are also trained to provide peer counseling about other topics.

Treatment and Support for HIV-positive Students

Columbia Health staff offer clinical care and information for HIV-positive students to manage infection effectively. All services are covered under the Columbia Student Health Insurance Plan:

  • Individualized care from an HIV specialist
  • Regular monitoring of CD4 and viral load
  • Medications
  • Preventative treatments (including pre-exposure prophylaxis)
  • Psychological support

For HIV-positive students who plan to study at Columbia, the Columbia Student Health Insurance Plan provides coverage sufficient for HIV medication prescriptions. If you have other insurance, we will help connect you to services that cover the costs. Questions? Contact GHAP at [email protected].

For students with a known or likely exposure to HIV, GHAP can facilitate further testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and confidential support from staff or peer advocates.