Hardship Fund

The Hardship Fund is an emergency fund to help current students facing financial difficulties. Find out what the fund can support and how to apply.

Hei aha tēnei pūtea āwhina? | What it can help with

The Hardship Fund can help with a range of issues, including:

• necessary medical, dental, or optical costs
• unforeseen flatting or family problems
• exceptionally high course-related costs, including Architecture and Design project materials
• high transport costs
• a disability or temporary illness that prevents part-time or holiday employment
• costs related to teaching experience placements
• costs associated with sexuality and gender identity for LGBTQIA+ students
• a change to your employment situation
• additional costs incurred by studying off campus
• other financial problems which adversely affect study.

Together with grants, we can provide loans to students having cash flow problems. For example, you might be waiting for a scholarship payment, a research grant, or an international bank transfer.

Me pēhea te tono | How to apply

Apply for a Hardship Grant in Pūaha

To apply for a grant or loan from the Hardship Fund, make an appointment with a student finance adviser. Appointments are usually done through Zoom and take around 30 to 45 minutes.

Your adviser will discuss your circumstances and help you complete the online application form. This includes making a budget that shows your current income and essential expenses.

When you apply to the Hardship Fund, your current income, essential expenses, and savings will be assessed, so an informed decision can be made. You must be enrolled in study at the time of your application.

Documents you’ll need

You will need to email documentation ahead of the meeting, including:

• your application form
• a recent bank statement showing the last two weeks’ transactions
• an overview of all of your bank accounts
• If you are applying for help with:
  • a particular bill (power or phone, for example)—email a copy of the bill
  • assistance with textbooks—email a quote
  • dental work or glasses—email a quote
  • bond and/or advance rent—email the lease agreement
  • Architecture and Design project costs greater than $100—email this form completed and approved by the course coordinator.

StudyLink