South CARES Emergency Assistance
We recognize that students may encounter unforeseen, significant challenges that create financial emergencies, hindering their ability to pursue their education. In response, USA created an opportunity for students to apply for South CARES Emergency Assistance for immediate, essential expenses due to temporary hardship.
This one-time assistance aims to alleviate short-term financial burdens and is not intended to replace or supplement existing financial aid. Eligible students must have exhausted all federal financial aid options and meet additional criteria outlined below in order to be considered.
We acknowledge the uniqueness of each student's situation, and every request will be carefully and confidentially considered. Typically, funding ranges from $50 to $500 and will be applied directly to the student's university account for disbursement. These funds do not need to be repaid.
To Apply
South CARES Assistance Request
A student's request should include a detailed description of the specific need and a statement of how the emergency situation has caused a financial hardship or is impacting their current academic semester.
A member of our team will reach out and schedule a confidential one-on-one appointment in-person or via Zoom.
Students in the College of Medicine should access the COM CARES program here.
- Required books or other course-related supplies
- Replacement of essential academic equipment due to theft, fire, or other disaster
- Temporary food or housing insecurity
- Emergency medical treatment/medication when the costs cannot be covered by insurance
- Travel related costs related to death or illness in immediate family
- Car repairs
- Tuition, fees, and study abroad expenses
- Parking tickets or other fines
- Entertainment, recreation, and non-emergency travel
- Non-essential household or personal expenses
- Non-essential utilities (i.e. internet, cable, etc.), household or furniture costs not related to damage or theft
- Regularly anticipated fixed expenses (i.e. rent)
- Other expenses due to overspending
- must be classified as degree seeking undergraduate or graduate student,
- be enrolled at least half-time or registered for the maximum number of credits required by the program,
- must demonstrate financial need,
- must be in good academic standing (Students currently on financial aid warning, probation, or suspension will not be considered.),
- must have a current FAFSA on file, and
- have exhausted all other forms of aid.
USA South CARES Emergency Assistance is made possible through generous donations from USA faculty, staff, alumni and donors. These monetary donations make a difference in the lives of our students in times of hardship and are greatly appreciated.