Emergency Funds
We offer emergency funding options to support you when unexpected expenses arise in emergency situations. Once you apply, you will be notified directly of approval. Funds do not have to be repaid.
UC Bookstore Voucher Application
Students who are experiencing financial need may apply for up to $50 in gift certificates (once per semester) to purchase spirit wear or academic support resources from the UC Bookstore. This program is made possible by Follett and generous UC staff members who elect to donate their Staff Service Award Credit to support students.
Bearcat Emergency Fund
The Bearcat Emergency Fund is designed to provide assistance with unexpected emergency expenses surrounding situations such as accidents, illness, death of a family member, fire damage, medical deductible, or with housing or food. Students may apply for funds when they have exhausted all other resources. This funding is not intended to replace or supplement existing financial aid.
All applications are typically limited to $500.00. Special circumstances may be approved for funds exceeding $500.00. Under normal circumstances, students needing emergency funds exceeding $500.00 are encouraged to consider alternate emergency funding and apply for an interest free short term loan.
The application will ask for details on how the expenses were unanticipated during this current term and why the student is unable to meet the expense. All applications are reviewed on a case by case basis.
Students with disabilities may qualify for financial support for college through the State of Ohio. Find more information at the OOD website or get in touch with UC's College2Career counselor by filling out an OOD Services Request.
- Students must be currently enrolled in classes.
- Students must have a financial hardship resulting from an recent emergency, accident, or other unexpected critical incident during the current term.
- All other resources through Student Financial Aid must have been pursued and determined. Students must complete a BEF application and provide all supporting documentation.
- Must have a zero balance on their student account.
Examples of Expenses Covered
- Emergency housing
- Food
- Necessary utilities
- Safety needs (changing locks)
- Prescriptions and other cost related to medical or mental health care including co-pays
- Books or other academic expenses
- Replacing essential personal belongings due to fire, theft, or natural disaster
- Limited travel costs related to death or illness of immediate family member
- Travel costs for medical, mental health or social service reasons
- Emergency transportation expenses
Example of Expenses Not Covered
- Tuition and fees
- Health insurance
- Study abroad costs
- Non-essential utilities
- Household furniture not related to damage or theft
- Parking tickets
- Costs for entertainment, recreation, non-emergency travel
- Legal counsel and fees
- Other non-essential expenses
Students who are in need of emergency financial assistance may submit an application and supporting documentation to the Dean of Students Office. All supporting documentation must show the student's name and the date associated with the emergency. Funding is subject to the availability of funds. Students are limited to one application per semester.
The Bearcat Emergency Fund Committee will review the submitted application and determine the appropriate funding amount. Funds distributed do not generally exceed $500. The committee will review all applications and will consider request in excess of $500 for unique and unusual circumstances of emergency financial need.
Applicants may be required to meet with a staff member in the Dean of Students Office to discuss their application and circumstances. Students currently receiving financial aid should be aware that receiving emergency funding may affect future aid packages.
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and may take up to 14 days for review. Funds for approved applications are disbursed through direct deposit into the student account within five (5) working days from approval. For students without direct deposit, a check will mailed to the address on file. When requested, receipts must be given to the Dean of Students Office within 2 business days of purchase completion.
For information on the application, please contact Associate Dean of Students Daniel Cummins at daniel.cummins@uc.edu or 513-556-5064.