SPS Student Emergency Fund

• Submit a SPS Emergency Fund application via SPS Engage.
• Upload proof of financial hardship resulting from an emergency.
• Upload documentation demonstrating you have exhausted all other resources of funding and/or a budget template. 
• Upload documentation that reflects what the emergency funding is being utilized for and/or where it will be applied.
• Please upload a copy of your FAFSA form, or its equivalent, if applicable

Once you have submitted your application and all required documenation a member of the Office of Student Wellness will contact you to confirm reciept and schedule a meeting to discuss your application. Please note that incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

• Currently enrolled Master of Science students who have completed at least 12 credits towards their degree and a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average; 
• Facing unanticipated and unforeseeable financial hardship resulting from a legitimate emergency/catastrophic event.
• Students must be in good academic, administrative and behavioral standing at the time of application.
• Students who are US Citizens or Permanent Residents are required to fill out a FAFSA form, or its equivalent; If you have not already met with Student Financial Services -- please schedule a meeting with them to review your options. 
• Exhausted all other financial resources, including federal & personal loans, enrollment in University payment plans, scholarships and grants, insurance, free or low cost services, family and personal contributions,  public assistance such as SNAP and government benefits and subsidies. A member of our team will be able to assist you in utilizing these resources if you have not done so.
• Clear and credible plan for meeting expenses for the remainder of enrollment at SPS.  

Offered on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.

All applicants should note references pertaining to discrimination; harassment; sexual misconduct or intimate partner abuse and stalking, disclosed in this application or accompanying documentation may be required to be disclosed to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmitive Action.

• Medical emergencies
• Temporary housing issues
• Essential travel for family emergencies
• Immediate food assistance
• Essential utiliies
• Safety-related needs

• Tuition and fees
• Ongoing or recurring costs (e.g., monthly bills, regular medical treatments)
• Expenses already paid or reimbursed
• Costs covered by other financial aid options, like public or private loans
• Non-essential purchases or luxury items
• Debt repayment (e.g., credit card bills, personal loans)
• Financial balances after graduation
• Funding gaps due to lack of financial planning
• Costs related to inflation and/or currency exchanges;
• Legal fees

Please review the Wellness Resources page or schedule a meeting with The Office of Student Wellness at sps-wellness [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu to further disucss your individual needs at this time.