Student Emergency Assistance Program

The Student Emergency Assistance Program provides support to students experiencing unexpected and urgent financial hardships. Because funding is limited, each application is carefully reviewed with consideration for the nature and timing of the emergency, the availability of funds, and whether the applicant has previously received assistance. To ensure equity and reach as many students as possible, priority may be given to those who have not used the program before. We encourage students to apply only in cases of genuine, unforeseen emergencies, so that this vital resource remains accessible to those who need it most. The maximum grant amount is $1,000, though this is awarded only in rare cases. Applicants are encouraged to request only what is necessary.

To be eligible, students must:

• Be currently enrolled as a full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate student
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
• Provide evidence of unexpected financial hardship.
• Not be involved in a student conduct case that could result in suspension or dismissal
• Demonstrate that all other financial aid resources (e.g., loans and grants) have been exhausted
• Submit documentation to support the emergency request

Examples of Eligible Emergencies 

• Emergency medical expenses are not covered by insurance
• Homelessness or eviction threats
• Damaged or stolen property
• Essential utilities (electric, gas, water)
• Emergency car repairs
• Textbooks and educational supplies are not covered by financial aid
• Travel related to the death or illness of an immediate family member

Expenses NOT Covered by the Program

• Regularly anticipated bills (e.g., phone, insurance)
• Non-emergency travel or recreation costs
• Tuition or academic fees
• Parking tickets, fines, legal fees
• Reimbursement for paid expenses
• Non-essential utilities (e.g., cable)

Submit a completed application that includes:

• A detailed written statement about the emergency
• Supporting documentation (e.g., bills, proof of expenses)
• An estimated amount of requested funds and how they will be used
• Proof of financial need via FAFSA or family income documentation

Submit the Student Emergency Grant Application

Supporting documentation is required for all emergency applications. Examples include:

• Screenshots of currently dated utility bills or statements for upcoming or past-due balances
• A signed and dated lease with a statement from the landlord indicating upcoming or outstanding payments owed
• Quotes for medical or dental procedures
• Automotive repair estimates (for commuting purposes)
• Childcare statements
• Employment termination letters

Student Emergency Assistance Supporting Documentation Form

A committee reviews grant requests and may approve them in full, partially awarded, or denied based on evaluating the applicant's needs and available resources. A partial award may be granted if your request exceeds what is deemed essential. Your request may be denied if it does not meet the eligibility criteria or your application is incomplete.

Student Outreach and Support Coordinator

The coordinator is the primary point of contact for emergency financial assistance, guiding students through the application process, conducting initial screenings and collaborating with the review committee.

Initial Review Process

• Screening: Applications are reviewed for completeness within 1-2 business days. The coordinator ensures the application is complete and may request additional documentation.
• Priority Consideration: Applications with immediate threats (e.g., housing, food security) are prioritized, especially for first-time applicants.

Committee Review Process

• Composition: The committee comprises representatives from Student Financial Services and Access & Opportunity Programs.
• Meeting Schedule: The committee meets weekly or as needed to review applications.
• Evaluation Criteria: The urgency of the student’s need, the impact on academic success, available funds, and the student’s previous emergency fund usage are considered.

If your application is denied, you may appeal if new or relevant information is available. Appeals must be submitted within ten business days of receiving the decision using the form below.

The committee will review the appeal within five business days.

Student Emergency Assistance Request Appeal Form

Repeat applications from prior years will undergo more detailed reviews to ensure equal access for all students.

For questions or help with the application, contact Tessa Rogers at [email protected].

Applications are reviewed within five business days. Funds are disbursed directly to your institutional account within seven business days of approval. Where appropriate, funds are paid directly to the service provider (e.g., bookstore, hotel, emergency travel).

The student outreach and support coordinator will follow up within two weeks of fund disbursement to confirm that the financial assistance effectively addressed the emergency. Further support will be offered if needed.