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Emergency Assistance

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M State emergency assistance provides grant funding to support eligible students at risk of dropping out of college due to an unexpected financial emergency. Emergency assistance is intended as a one-time award per academic year for unforeseeable emergency situations. Assistance up to $750 is available to eligible students experiencing a financial emergency - defined as an unforeseen expense that, if not resolved quickly, could lead to the student’s departure from the college and a loss of momentum toward completion.

2026 funding update

As of January 2026, M State student emergency assistance funding is NOT available. We understand that unexpected financial challenges can create stress and uncertainty. M State students are encouraged to connect with their campus social worker to explore additional basic‑needs resources, community supports, and other assistance options available while attending M State.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and remain committed to supporting students in accessing the resources they need.

Eligible expenses

Eligible expenses include housing/rent, childcare, food/meals, gas, medical/dental expenses, personal automobile expenses, public transportation/bus pass and utilities.  

Ineligibility

Expenses that are NOT eligible are expected school expenses such as parking, fines, fees, tuition, books, laptop, laptop/computer equipment, course supplies and program required tools/equipment.

Students who are NOT eligible:

  • Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or concurrent enrollment students
  • Students who are concurrently enrolled at another institution and M State is not the home institution (i.e. consortium students)
  • Students (who are M State employees and not dependents) who have their tuition paid via employee waiver through Minnesota State Colleges and Universities

Please contact a campus social worker for more information or questions about M State Emergency Assistance or additional supportive resources to help your situation.

Moorhead campus - Tyler Strand

Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls and Wadena campuses - Lori Hinrichs