Student emergency funds

The University of Minnesota has created emergency funds to assist and support University of Minnesota Crookston students who encounter an unforeseen financial emergency or catastrophic event.  For example, those related to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

These funds are not intended to be used for routine expenses or as a supplement to a student's education funding sources.  Instead, these funds are for students who experience an event or unforeseen circumstance that negatively and severely impacts their academic success and ability to continue their education.

An eligibility review will determine if granting the emergency fund request will have an impact on current and future aid if received.  Priority will be given to students whose persistence at the University may be at risk because of unexpected expenses.  Emergency funds can be used for groceries/food, housing/rent, medical, transportation, technology, or other expenses that may be experienced during a financial crisis.

Note:  Emergency grant funds are limited 

Award Amount:  The typical range of awards is $50 - $1,000 depending on types of expenses, circumstances, and/or documentation provided.

Eligibility:

  • You are a currently enrolled, degree-seeking undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota Crookston campus during the term when the emergency funds would be applied. 

  • You are maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) or have successfully appealed a SAP suspension status

  • You are able to demonstrate your current financial need by describing your circumstance and providing documentation or receipts related to the emergency.

  • You have completed an intake form in full, including how the emergency grant funds will be spent

  • A completed FAFSA is highly recommended so that we can determine what other funding options may be available to you.  A FAFSA is not required for internation students, undocumented students, and students enrolled in DACA.  If you would like to completed the FAFSA application visit www.studentaid.gov

Request funds

To request student emergency funds contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships.  The Financial Aid office will send you an emergency grant form within 1-2 business days.  The application asks several questions including:

  • An explanation of the emergency and how the funds will be used to help with your emergency

  • An explanation of the impact of this emergency and the unexpected expenses on your ability to remain enrolled at the University of Minnesota 

  • What other sources of funding you have tried to obtain so that we can identify other possible sources that may be helpful

  • You will need to attach documentation or receipts related to the emergency

Note:  If you or your family's financial situation has changed significantly from what was submitted on your FAFSA (for example, if you’ve lost a job or otherwise experienced a loss of income), you may be eligible to have your financial aid adjusted.  Contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships if this applies to you.