Student Emergency Fund & Financial Aid Appeal Process
Part of what makes Carthage College so special is the personal attention our students receive. We realize that students may face a challenge or roadblock which may interfere with completing their education. In the true Carthage spirit, we are here to help and assist all students to reach their goals and complete their education.
Are you a current Carthage student with questions about financial aid? Has a situation developed that is not allowing you to continue your education? Has there been a change in your family’s financial situation? The Office of Student Financial Services continues to be a resource for all students, throughout their time at Carthage.
Student Emergency Fund
We understand that even with the best planning and utilizing all the resources at your disposal, there still might be times when you need assistance to pay for an unexpected expense caused by an emergency. The Student Emergency Fund includes donations from alumni, friends of the College, parents, and community members to assist current students with funds to cover unexpected expenses.
These funds provide relief for an immediate need resulting from an emergency. They will not be awarded to cover a gap on, or inability to pay for, fixed costs paid directly to Carthage, such funds to cover tuition, fees, or room and board. Priority will be given to students who have fully taken advantage of student loan opportunities available to them (including students who have taken alternative loans to cover expenses). In most cases, Carthage will make direct payments or purchase items needed. In extremely rare cases, these grants will be awarded in the form of a check to the student. Emergency funds do not need to be repaid and are distributed on a case-by-case basis.
EXAMPLES OF EMERGENCY EXPENSES
Examples of emergency expenses that may qualify for grants include (but are not limited to):
- Technology needs (such as a laptop or laptop charger)
- Unexpected or emergency travel
- Books and supplies
- Insurance
- Medical expenses, medication, or medical supplies
- Application fees for immigration, non-medical testing, or other processes
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Transportation
- Personal car expenses (car repairs, car payments, or insurance)
- Expected travel to/from campus at the beginning and end of each semester or during breaks
- Personal flights
- Travel to/from campus for course placements (clinicals, student teaching, etc.)
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Off campus housing needs
- Rent and utilities
- Grocery and toiletry assistance
You will be contacted to meet with a staff member to discuss your circumstance and then they will consult with campus partners, including the Office of Student Financial Services. This fund is not associated with the financial aid application process. Financial aid applicants who have special circumstances that relate directly to the financial aid process should contact the Office of Student Financial Services. The Office of Student Financial Services coordinates this program and a committee reviews the applications to determine eligibility. The amount given is determined by the need and subject to the availability of the funds.
Application Process
All current students attending Carthage classes who are in need of emergency funding assistance are encouraged to apply. You will be contacted after you submit your application to schedule a meeting with a member of our staff.
Students: Submit an application
Faculty/staff: Refer a student through Navigate
QUESTIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For additional information or to check on the status of an Emergency Fund application, contact the Center for Student Success.
Appeals for additional aid
Special circumstances or “Change in Family Circumstances” are situations beyond a student’s or family’s control that impacts the information reported on the FAFSA. In some circumstances, your financial aid award can be reviewed based on new information regarding finances our team did not know at the time the award was created.
Examples include:
- Extenuating medical expenses
- Unexpected loss of income
- Private tuition paid for younger siblings
- Death of a parent/family member
If you think you might qualify for an appeal, your parents should complete a Special Circumstances appeal form.