Student Emergency/Hardship Fund

Sometimes students experience unexpected or emergency circumstances for which they need financial assistance. The Graduate School of Education (GSE) Student Emergency/Hardship Fund is designed to provide limited financial assistance to GSE students who, due to circumstances beyond their control, encounter an emergency situation or unforeseen expenses. The student emergency fund is designated to off-set short-term financial need and is not intended to replace or supplement financial aid or scholarships.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for consideration, you must:
  • Be a full-time (or equivalent) Graduate School of Education student enrolled in a degree or certificate program, for the term the emergency aid is being requested
  • Be in good academic standing and maintaining satisfactory academic progress
  • Provide sufficient documentation of the financial hardship

Eligible Expenses

Eligible expenses includes situations such as:

  • Illness or death in the immediate family that requires unplanned transportation
  • Major accidents and events such as fire and natural disasters
  • Personal safety needs (e.g., domestic violence situation requiring temporary relocation)
  • Sudden medical expenses
  • Utilities, food, temporary transportation

Ineligible Expenses

Ineligible expenses include items such as:

  • Expenses related to green cards, student visas or similar immigration documents
  • Long-term medical expenses
  • Outdated computer upgrade or replacement
  • Parking tickets
  • Student account charges (e.g., tuition, University fees, meal plan)
  • Taxes, insurance, pet-related expenses 

Award Amount and Deadline

Award amount varies depending on the situation and the severity of the emergency. Typical awards are between $100-600 (additional funds may be available on a case-by-case basis). Awards are based on the availability of the funds and strength of the application. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis once application is complete.

Application Process

Please complete the application online, which includes the following:

  • Statement describing the emergency situation or one-time, unforeseen expense (250 to 350 words)
  • Documentation to support your request (e.g., police or accident report, copy of emergency medical bill)
  • Budget detailing the total dollar amount of requested emergency funds, a list of specific expenses to be covered by the award, and your financial situation including sources of income and other funding
Response Time

Response time may vary depending on which option you choose. GSE will respond to all completed applications within 2 to 5 business days.

Apply for the Emergency/Hardship Fund