MSU Denver

Student Emergency Retention Fund

Please note: due to limited funding, as of March 1st, 2023, our max Emergency Fund award will be $1,000.00.

General Information

Life happens. One of MSU Denver’s core values is access—all students should have access to the resources they need to succeed in college and finish their education. The Student Emergency Retention Fund is an emergency stipend for MSU Denver students who are dealing with unanticipated and/or catastrophic life events that might otherwise cause the student to stop or pause their educational goals. The fund is managed by a campus committee and is currently accepting applications. Applications will be reviewed as funds last. Once funds are exhausted, additional applications will not be reviewed.  All decisions are final.

Students are eligible to receive funding once an academic year. Awards are generally capped at $1,000. The MSU Denver Student Emergency Fund may affect future financial aid award packages for students and may be considered taxable income.

This award will only be granted after a student has submitted an online application, provided supporting documentation of their emergency, and submitted a personal statement. Please note, every situation is considered on a case-by-case basis. The Committee will consider the nature and urgency of each situation. Generally, in order to access the fund, a student must have exhausted all other available financial options. However, this looks different for every student. The Committee encourages all students experiencing an emergency to apply so options can be explored.

In order to be considered for Student Emergency Retention Fund, students must submit the following:

Application Requirements

  • Online Application
  • Personal Statement: include the following:
    • Tell us what happened;
    • Explain why this was unanticipated;
    • Specify the amount and purpose of funds requested; and
    • Tell us how this affects your education.
  • Documentation of Financial Need/Emergency Timeline: Documentation must demonstrate a current emergency and need. For example, include a copy of an upcoming or overdue bill, a quote for a medical procedure, a dated demand for rent, etc.

Once all submission requirements are met, a representative from the Student CARE Center will contact you as quickly as possible to set up a time to speak. Thoroughly review the requirements listed below before applying.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Student must be currently taking classes at MSU Denver
    • During the summer semester, students must be registered for at least 6 credits for the fall semester if not enrolled in summer classes
  • Students must submit a completed online application, a personal statement, and supplementary documents showing financial need
  • Students are only eligible to receive this fund once per academic year
  • Students must have exhausted all other financial options; this may include Financial Aid Awards (considered on a case-by-case basis)

*All students are welcome to apply, independent of immigration status*

Expenses covered include, but are not limited to:

  • Personal medical, dental, or mental health emergencies
  • Emergency family medical or death expenses for those that you are financially responsible for (will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • Safety and health-related needs
  • Rent and utilities, in case of emergency
    • For example: If you are hospitalized and unable to work, therefore you cannot pay your rent
  • Care for dependents
  • Costs related to major accidents or loss due to fire, theft, or natural disaster
  • Can cover costs related to one’s immigration case or court hearing
  • Books, supplies, and technology will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Expenses NOT covered include, but are not limited to:

  • Tuition & fees at MSU Denver, as well as any other expenses at other institutions of higher education
  • Veterinary fees
  • Legal fees
  • Student travel/conference
  • Non-essential utilities (determined by Student Emergency Retention Fund Committee)
  • Costs of entertainment, recreation, personal, or non-emergency travel expenses
  • Outstanding personal debt, including credit card debt

The Student Emergency Retention Fund Committee will request documentation and reserves the right to request receipts.

Student Emergency Retention Fund Application

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MSU Denver Emergency Fund Application Link

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