Transfer aid question (specifically Columbia)

One thing I’ve noticed is that colleges outright state that transfer students receive less financial aid than students who were admitted first year. I have several questions about this. Columbia is my first choice, so perhaps let’s look at them as an example. However, I’m sure their aid practices are comparable to any top school.

How much less exactly do transfer students receive? Is it significant? I know it’s nearly impossible to quantify this, but even an estimate would be appreciated. Also, does this continue until you graduate or do you receive the same amount of aid as everyone else after you’ve completed your first year? If not, how stupid is that? Thank you.

Columbia is one of the few universities that will meet your full financial need regardless of being a transfer.

It is most often merit aid that is less for transfer students.