The Brown University Short-Term Loan Program is a zero interest loan made available to students to assist in emergencies. This fund has historically supported students experiencing cash-flow related situations where a buffer is needed immediately. After a request is approved, students must sign a Promissory Note/Acknowledgement and funds must be repaid according to those terms.

Additionally, there is established emergency funding for master’s students who find themselves with an urgent, unexpected financial need. The application can be found in UFunds, under “SPS E-Gap Fund for Master's and Professional Student”

Short-Term Emergency Loans cannot assist with a student's costs of tuition, room or board. The maximum amount that can be requested is $500, in the form of a cash payment, meal credits, or other support as available and appropriate. Eligible students may complete the Short Term Loan Request Form and setup an eRefund Profile at payment.brown.edu in order to receive the funds electronically. Students must repay all approved Short Term Loans directly to the Brown University Cashier Office before the end of the current semester. 

Eligibility

Students may apply remotely. Newly matriculated students who will be starting in the fall term are eligible starting in August. 

We give emergency funding requests the fullest consideration that our available resources will permit. Students can expect to receive a response to their application within 2-3 business days. Questions may be directed to egap-spsfunds@brown.edu. 

We understand that an unexpected emergency can cause significant stress and uncertainty, impacting your academic success and personal well-being. Master's students who experience financial hardship as a result of an unanticipated event are encouraged to connect with the Student Affairs team in the Center for Master's Student Excellence to determine their eligibility for the Emergency Hardship Fund. Student Affairs can also provide guidance and advice in navigating available resources and make referrals to appropriate offices.

The Emergency Hardship Fund may cover the following: 

• Winter Gear: Items such as a winter coat, boots, hat, scarf, and gloves. 
• Medical Costs: Sudden medical, vision, or dental costs not covered by health insurance.
• Travel: Unexpected travel costs, such as travel to or from Providence during extended breaks or to care for a family member. 
• Car Repair: Non-routine expenses related to car repair. This does not cover regular car maintenance costs.  
• Technology Repair: Funds to cover repair or diagnostic and maintenance services at the Brown Bookstore. Awards are based on a fee schedule, posted at the Bookstore at the time of service. 
• Textbooks & course materials: Required texts or course materials required for a student to successfully participate in their academic programs. 
• Personal/Other: Funds to cover personal items, such as DACA fees or F1 visa fees, or other costs.  

Please be aware that Emergency Hardship Funding is limited and is based on financial need; some requests may be granted through this resource. Emergency Hardship Funding grant amounts vary, and funding priority is based on the urgency of the situation, level of hardship, and the student's overall financial situation. Emergency Hardship Funding typically provides awards up to a maximum of $500 per academic year. 

APPLY HERE

Eligibility

Students can review eligibility requirements and the award process in UFunds, in the SPS E-Gap Fund for Master's and Professional Students.