Student Emergency Fund

We are aware that some of you are currently facing financial difficulties, and we want to share an important resource with you. The Berklee community has come together and is ready to support you if you’re experiencing unexpected financial hardship. Through the generosity of current parents and families, the Board of Trustees, Berklee leadership, and community members, Berklee has mobilized the Student Emergency Fund to help you navigate this challenging time.

Criteria for the Student Emergency Fund

You may request funds for an emergency situation or for unanticipated and compelling circumstances that make it difficult for you to successfully continue your courses. Funds may be provided in the form of a one-time grant. Requests are reviewed once every two weeks, and approved requests may take one additional week for the grant to arrive. It is strongly recommended that students have direct deposit set up with Berklee for the fastest transfer of approved funding.

To be considered eligible, you must:

  • be currently enrolled at the College or Conservatory,
  • demonstrate financial hardship due to an emergency situation or for unanticipated and/or compelling circumstances that make it difficult for you to successfully continue in your courses, and
  • consider and use other sources of funding as appropriate, such as recommended student loans, unless they are not available in a sufficiently timely manner.

Expenses that will be considered include, but are not limited to:

  • medical, dental, or mental health emergency expenses that are not covered by insurance (not including copays that are determined by a student's insurance plan);
  • replacement costs of essential personal belongings in the event of fire, theft, or natural disaster that are not covered by insurance;
  • urgent travel related to the death or illness of an immediate family member;
  • temporary support costs if you are in a dangerous situation due to threats or acts of violence; and
  • individually recommended or required services that are considered critical to your success (e.g., diagnostic testing for Accessibility Resources).

Expenses that will not be considered include:

  • tuition, fees, room/board or rent, or other standard expenses associated with attending Berklee;
  • anticipated expenses such as rent; and
  • costs of optional programs, entertainment, recreation, non-emergency travel, and other non-essential expenses.

Priority for these funds will be given based on:

  • the urgency of the situation,
  • your overall financial picture and level of hardship, and
  • whether you have used other resources and support that are available.

 

Request Emergency Funds (Berklee login required)

Faculty and staff: If you are aware of a student who needs assistance, please fill out the Early Alert form (login required).

Resources

Please take some time to explore the links below to see what other resources both within and outside of Berklee may be able to offer assistance.