What is the Jim Sells Childcare Subsidy (JSCS)?
The JSCS is a support program funded by student fees for eligible students with children to help pay a portion of their childcare expenses.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To be eligible students must be a primary caregiver of dependent children, enrolled at least half time, and have financial need. For additional details please refer to the JSCS Handbook.
Does everyone who applies receive the subsidy?
No, JSCS is a limited fund and not all interested or eligible students will be awarded. Priority is given to students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree with the greatest unmet need.
I was not selected, what can I do?
Eligible, but not awarded, students will be placed on a waitlist. Staff will be in contact if additional funding becomes available.
My circumstances have changed since I filed the FAFSA? What can I do?
If you do not feel that your FAFSA reflects your current financial need, you can submit a revision or re-evaluation request through the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships. Please visit Services for Students with Children to learn about other resources for families on and off campus. You can also visit the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care to learn more about childcare financial assistance.
How are award amounts determined?
Award amounts are based on care rate maximums published by The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (ERDC). The JSCS funds approximately fifty percent of those costs. Awarding for school-aged children is intended for part time before and/or after-school care and scheduled closure dates.
How do I apply for JSCS?
Students submit the Jim Sells Childcare Subsidy Application on ScholarshipUniverse. Paper applications will not be provided. Please be prepared to upload a recent child care billing statement and proof of payment from all providers.
Why do I need to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The FAFSA helps determine a student's eligibility for need-based aid and helps ensure the student has access to as much federal, state, and institutional funds that may be available to them.
What if I am an international or undocumented student and not eligible to submit the FAFSA?
For those unable to file a FAFSA, there is a Financial Transcript form on ScholarshipUniverse that can be uploaded.
Can I receive the subsidy if I am a graduate student?
Yes! While graduate students may not be eligible to receive some forms of financial aid, they can still be awarded this subsidy. However, priority will be given to students working on their first degree.
I have questions about the application process? Who do I contact?
Please contact the Jim Sells Childcare Subsidy coordinator at jimsells@pdx.edu
How do I know if I am awarded?
Recipients will receive an award notification via their PSU email.
Can I choose any childcare provider? How about a private sitter?
Yes! Students are responsible for selecting their own childcare provider. PSU does not recommend childcare providers.
Am I still eligible to apply if my child is school-aged?
Yes! The subsidy is available to children under 13 years of age. For school aged children the subsidy is intended for before and after school care and school closure dates.
I just received an award but had childcare expenses from a previous term this academic school year. Can I be reimbursed?
No, starting with the 2023/2024 academic year the award period will begin in the term that the subsidy is awarded and throughout the remainder of the year, excluding summer.
I need help to cover other parenting costs. What can I do?
The Basic Needs Hub is a great place to learn about resources available to students - including emergency and hardship funds.
Also, Services for Students with Children is an amazing resource! They have a New Baby Starter Kit, diapers, a clothing closet, and more!
Please check out additional PSU Student Life Resources.
Am I eligible if I am an employee using my staff fee privilege (tuition discount)?
No, employees using staff fee privileges do not pay the Student Incidental Fee, and are therefore not eligible for the services that they provide.
Am I eligible if I have an internship?
You are eligible if you are earning credits towards your degree and maintain at least half time enrollment.
Can I still apply if I am receiving other financial assistance for childcare?
While receiving other forms of financial assistance for childcare does not make you ineligible, the subsidy prioritizes those with the highest financial unmet need.