For some Carolina students, money is too tight to go see a movie or even to go get dinner with friends, so when emergency situations arise, these students are left with financial difficulties that can affect both their personal and academic lives.

The Student Emergency Fund is a joint venture between the Division of Student Affairs and Scholarships and Student Aid. The Fund assists Carolina students by providing immediate financial support when they need assistance with unexpected emergency expenses surrounding situations such as accidents, illness, death of a family member, fire damage or need for temporary housing. Students may apply for funds when they have exhausted all other resources.

This funding is not intended to replace or supplement existing financial aid and does not have to be repaid.

Students who are in need of emergency financial assistance may submit an application and supporting documentation to the Office of the Dean of Students. The Emergency Fund Committee, made up of staff members from both the Office of the Dean of Students and Scholarships and Student Aid reviews the submitted applications and determines the appropriate funding amount. Funds are distributed within an average range of $300 to $600. The committee will review applications requesting in excess of $600 for unique and unusual circumstances of emergency financial need. Applicants may be required to meet with a staff member in the Office of the Dean of Students to discuss their application.

If you are currently receiving financial aid, please be aware that receiving funding from the Emergency Fund may affect your future aid packages.

The number of students who can be served by the Student Emergency Fund is subject to the availability of funds. The fund must be sustained by continual contributions from alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the University.