Crisis Grant Assistance

Awarding Guidelines & Limits

Students experiencing an unexpected financial emergency must meet with a SJSU Cares Case Manager to assess their situation and determine eligibility for a one-time grant, awarded based on individual circumstances and available funding.

Students may typically receive support once per academic year. If an additional financial emergency arises within the same year, students should meet with a Case Manager to explore available resources and determine whether an exception request may be considered.

The Crisis Grant CAN help with 
  • Past due rent or rent costs to avoid eviction
  • Food needs (if already accessing other food supports offered by SJSU Cares or Spartan Food Pantry)
  • Unexpected car repair (does not include car maintenance expenses)
  • Medical emergencies impacting food and housing security, such as:
    • Urgent medical/dental procedures not covered by insurance
    • Hospitalization not covered by insurance
    • Urgent mental health care not covered by insurance
The Crisis Grant CANNOT help with
  • Tuition and fees, including:
    • financial aid adjustments that the student is required to pay back
  • Mortgages (personal/family property)
  • Car/vehicle payments, which include:
    • Loan payments
    • Car registration
    • Car insurance
  • Credit card debt
  • Student loan debt
  • Personal loan debt
  • Veterinary bills
  • Partner/family expenses
  • Parking permits or citations

Eligibility

To be considered for the SJSU Cares Crisis Grant, students must:

  • Be currently enrolled in a degree-seeking undergraduate or graduate program at San José State University
  • Meet with a SJSU Cares Staff member to assess their situation and eligibility
  • Be experiencing an unexpected financial emergency that impacts their ability to meet basic needs, such as housing, food, or health-related expenses.
  • Have explored available financial aid options and other resources
  • Have remaining eligibility within their financial aid budget, as required by federal and state regulations

Please note: Crisis Grant funds cannot be used to cover tuition or mandatory fees.

Steps to Apply

Step 1:
Submit an SJSU Cares Request for Assistance to connect with a Case Manager.

Step 2:
Meet with a SJSU Cares Case Manager to discuss your situation, assess your needs, and explore available resources.

Step 3:
If appropriate, the Case Manager will consult with the Financial Aid & Scholarships Office (FASO) to determine eligibility for the Economic Crisis Grant. You will be notified of the outcome via your SJSU email.

    • If approved, funds are typically processed and disbursed through Financial Aid within a few business days.
    • If not approved, your Case Manager will work with you to identify other campus and community resources for support

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