Student Support

At Brown, we care about the whole you and work with you to support your success. Begin with some of the resources listed below.

Resources for you

Food Support & Resources

What is food insecurity? Food insecurity is defined as a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life. This can be a temporary situation  or can last a long time 

How does Brown support master’s students experiencing food insecurity?

  • Meal Swipes: Meal credits for on-campus meals may be provided to students experiencing acute food need. This form of support, the number of meals, and the period of time over which they will be provided will be determined on an individual basis after applying for Meal Swipes in UFunds. Students are typically awarded 20 meal swipes at a time and may reapply as needed. Complete the application and learn about eligibility requirements here.
  • Emergency Hardship Funding: Students may apply for up to $250 in funds to cover the costs of groceries for themselves and/or dependents 
  • Bear Market Food Exchange:  Located outside of our offices on the 4th Floor of Page-Robinson building (across from Room 411), this pantry shelf is stocked by donations from students, faculty & staff, and supplemented monthly by the Office of the Chaplains and Religious Life. 
  • Graduate Student Council Lounge Pantry: The pantry is located in the Graduate Student Lounge (92 Thayer St.), in cabinets three and four which are to the right of the GSL entrance, and directly across from the sink. A list of items that might be found in the pantry and where are shown here

Emergency Hardship Funding

The School of Professional Studies understands that an unexpected emergency can cause significant stress and uncertainty, impacting your academic success and personal well-being. Master's students who experience financial hardship as a result of an unanticipated event are encouraged to connect with Student Affairs staff in the School of Professional Studies to determine their eligibility for the Emergency Hardship Fund. Student Affairs Staff can also provide guidance and advice in navigating available resources and making referrals to appropriate offices.

The Emergency Hardship Fund may cover the following: 

  • Winter Gear: Items such as a winter coat, boots, hat, scarf, and gloves. 
  • Medical Costs: Sudden medical, vision, or dental costs not covered by health insurance.
  • Travel:  Unexpected travel costs, such as travel to or from Providence during extended breaks or to care for a family member. 
  • Car Repair: Non-routine expenses related to car repair. This does not cover regular car maintenance costs.  
  • Technology Repair: Funds to cover repair or diagnostic and maintenance services at the Brown Bookstore. Awards are based on a fee schedule, posted at the Bookstore at the time of service. 
  • Textbooks & course materials: Required texts or course materials required for a student to successfully participate in their academic programs. 
  • Personal/Other: Funds to cover personal items, such as DACA fees or F1 visa fees, or other costs.  

Please be aware that Emergency Hardship Funding is limited and is based on financial need; some requests may be granted through this resource.  Emergency Hardship Funding grant amounts vary, and funding priority is based on the urgency of the situation, level of hardship, and the student's overall financial situation.   Emergency Hardship Funding typically provides awards up to a maximum of $500 per academic year.Students can review eligibility requirements and the award process in UFunds, in the  SPS E-Gap Fund for Master's and Professional Students. 

Apply Here

Staff Support