Student Emergency Fund
Unexpected emergencies can happen to anyone. The Marshall University Student Emergency Fund provides limited financial assistance to students experiencing unforeseen circumstances that may impact their ability to remain enrolled and continue making academic progress.
The fund is designed to help students overcome temporary financial hardships caused by unexpected events beyond their control. Whether facing a sudden housing crisis, emergency medical expense, transportation issue, or another unforeseen challenge, the Student Emergency Fund exists to provide timely assistance when it is needed most. Because every student’s circumstances are unique, we encourage anyone experiencing an unexpected hardship to apply, even if they are unsure whether their situation qualifies.
Eligibility
Students applying for assistance should generally:
- Be currently enrolled at Marshall University.
- Be experiencing an unforeseen financial emergency.
- Demonstrate an immediate financial need related to their educational experience.
Student Emergency Fund awards are generally limited to one grant per academic year, with awards of up to $500, depending on demonstrated need and available funding. Students experiencing exceptional or extenuating circumstances are still encouraged to apply, as every request is reviewed individually.
Examples of Eligible Expenses
The examples below represent some of the situations that may qualify for assistance through the Student Emergency Fund, but they are not an exhaustive list. If your circumstances are not listed, we still encourage you to submit an application so we can review your situation.
Examples may include:
- Emergency housing needs
- Utility shutoff prevention
- Food insecurity
- Emergency medical or dental expenses
- Unexpected transportation or vehicle repairs
- Expenses related to theft, fire, natural disasters, or other emergencies.
Examples Generally Not Covered
The Student Emergency Fund is generally not intended to cover:
- Tuition and routine educational expenses
- Planned or anticipated purchases
- Vehicle insurance
- Health insurance premiums
- Application or testing fees
- Parking tickets, fines, or legal fees
- Expenses already reimbursed through another source
Applying for Assistance
Complete the Student Emergency Fund application and provide a brief explanation of your circumstances. Supporting documentation helps us evaluate requests as quickly as possible.
Examples of documentation include:
- Utility shutoff notice or overdue bill
- Past-due rent notice or eviction notice
- Medical bill, prescription receipt, or provider invoice
- Vehicle repair estimate or invoice
- Police report
- Insurance claim documentation
- Obituary or funeral documentation
- News article documenting a natural disaster or community emergency
- Any other documentation that helps you explain your situation
Applications are reviewed as quickly as possible, and funding is subject to availability.
Giving
The Student Emergency Fund is made possible through the generosity of alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and community partners.
Every gift helps provide timely assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships and supports Marshall University’s commitment to student success. Because the fund is supported through charitable contributions, every donation helps ensure assistance is available when students need it most.