Emergency Funds
Unexpected financial emergencies occur and Penn State has emergency assistance funds that can help you remain in school to achieve your academic goals. Students facing challenges with access to adequate food, stable housing, affording educational expenses, or meeting other basic needs may be eligible.
The Dr. Omid Ansary Student Emergency Assistance Fund and the Basic Needs Assistance Fund are to assist with extraordinary and unexpected financial hardships. Example covered expenses could include: educational costs, medical, housing, food. The first step in receiving assistance or support is by submitting the Basic Needs Request form.
After you submit a Basic Needs Request Form a Student Advocacy case manager will review every submission and send instructions on how to meet with a case manager. After the discussion, the Offices of Student Aid and Student Advocacy collaborate to determine the best course of action for students.
Potential recipients are encouraged to demonstrate good faith towards their education by utilizing available funds first (i.e. loans) or be prepared to explain why other funding sources are not a viable option.
In order to be considered for emergency funding, the following criteria must be met:
- Must be currently enrolled
- Must have immediate hardship (not anticipated)
- Must submit a Basic Needs Request Form and be prepared to provide supporting documents (bills, estimates, statement, etc).
Emergency funds are designed to be a short-term lift, not a recurring financial plan. Recurring assistance may be denied. Our goal is to help students through a difficult situation while developing a sustainable plan.
Please note a submission is not a guarantee of available funds or an award will be made.
If you need help - or have questions about your unique needs - reach out for support. We are available to assist you, and there is no judgment from Penn State if you are experiencing hardship.