Hope Grant Program

Hope Grant

Having trouble with rent this month? Car trouble? Getting behind on bills? Undergraduate students who find themselves in a financial crisis which could put their academic success at risk can apply for the Hope Grant.

Who is Eligible?

Undergraduate (full time or part time)
Main campus student
Registered for classes during the term when the hardship occurred
Expected family contribution on the FAFSA is $12,000 or less
Never received Hope funds through UMary
Applying for an eligible financial emergency

Financial emergencies are unexpected expenses that, if not resolved quickly, could lead to a student's departure from the college and loss of momentum toward completion.

Eligible expenses include but are not limited to:

Childcare
Food/Meals
Gas
Housing/Rent
Medical expenses
Vehicle expenses/transportation
Utilities

Ineligible expenses include: tuition, fees, fines, parking, required equipment/tools for program, entertainment expenses, alcohol/tobacco.

How do I receive Hope Grant funds?

Review eligibility criteria and apply online

Gather documentation of the financial emergency. It is required and will expedite the process.

How are funding decisions made?

Student Success Center (SSC) receives eligibility/referral forms and verifies initial eligibility.
SSC contacts you to inform you of eligibility status.
Hope Grant Committee (three UMary staff members) convene to vote on application Monday mornings.
Business office disburses funds to vendor the Friday following the week of approval.

What is the maximum amount I can receive?

Grant awards are made based on committee decision. Grant funds cannot be disbursed to a student directly; funds must be paid to a vendor or dispersed in the form of a gift card.