Student Success

Person standing casually and smiling outside of the library

Emergency Aid: Application Open

The Emergency Aid Application is Open

Since launching in Winter 2023, we have been able to award 847 students a total of $466,100. 

We look forward to continuing our mission in future terms to support students going through financial crises. 

Financial emergencies happen.

Our goal is to support students who experience financial emergencies while in school. 

Supporting student success is our number one priority. We understand it is hard to focus on school when an emergency or natural disaster threatens your financial security. PSU’s Undergraduate Emergency Aid Fund assists students who are on the verge of pausing their educational pursuits due to a financial emergency. 

Funding is limited and to support as many students as possible, applications are limited to once per academic term. Awards may be limited to once per academic year based on funding availability. 

Award amounts are $500. This fund cannot be used to cover the cost of education (e.g. PSU tuition and fees). All currently enrolled degree-seeking students are eligible to apply. This is not designed to be an ongoing scholarship or sponsorship.  Undergraduate students will be prioritized in the review process.

Please note: applications will be reviewed and prioritized in the order in which they are received. 

What is covered?

  • Accidents 
  • Food insecurity
  • Housing Insecurity
  • Emergency rent assistance
  • Illness (self or dependent)
  • Child care costs
  • Transportation 
  • Technology 
  • Other emergencies impacting a student's ability to fully participate academically at PSU

Important Notes on Eligibility

There are a number of factors we consider in the application. If you are not eligible for the funds or receive less funding than requested, it may be because you are receiving federal or state financial aid, remissions, and/or scholarships that would be reduced as a result of receiving funding. Please reach out to Financial Aid or success@pdx.edu for assistance.

Graduate, Post-Baccalaureate, and PhD students can apply, but Undergraduates will be prioritized in reviewing.   

Emailed applications are not accepted, students must apply through Scholarship Universe when the application is open to be considered.

Apply in Scholarship Universe

Frequently Asked Questions

In order to receive funds as quickly as possible, make sure your refund preference is set as direct deposit through your my.pdx.edu student account. Direct deposit funds are usually available within three business days. Read more about how to set up direct deposit here. 

If direct deposit is not set-up, a paper check will be mailed to the current address on file and can take 7-10 business days to be received. Paper checks are not provided to students in person.

Additional Resources