Emergency Grants
TMSU’s Emergency Bursary program provides up to $500 per semester for students experiencing unexpected financial instability.
Summer Emergency Grants: On Hold
June 03, 2026: Due to overwhelming demand, the Summer application period for the Emergency Student Grants program is currently on hold while the Grants Committee reviews the applications received from May 15-30, 2026.
We will contact every applicant with their results and a list of additional funding resources as soon as we can. If possible, we will reopen the program once the initial 150+ applications are adjudicated. Thank you for your patience as TMSU works to support its members.
TMSU is very excited to continue our Emergency Bursary program for the Spring 2026 academic term! This spring, we’re distributing grants of up to $500.00 per semester for eligible students. Below you can find the process to apply for emergency bursaries, as well as Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
How to apply:
- Fill out the Emergency Bursary Application Google Form below.
- Wait 2 to 3 weeks for the Student Grants Committee to review your application.
- Once the committee makes its decision, you will receive an email informing you if you are approved for an Emergency Grant.
If your application is approved, your cheque will be mailed to the address provided in your application or picked up in person by appointment.
The application and acceptance period for Spring 2026 is May 15 to July 15, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What situations qualify for an emergency grant?
Emergency grants are intended to support students facing unexpected financial hardships that impact their ability to continue their studies or meet essential needs. Valid reasons for submitting a grant may include: sudden loss of income, medical or dental emergencies, housing instability, urgent travel due to family emergencies or other unforeseen expenses that create financial strain.
My application was denied, now what?
We understand there is no easy way to hear your request was denied, and our team takes no pleasure in having to make these tough decisions. The Emergency Bursary Program prioritizes students who have unforeseen expenses that are getting in the way of their education. If your application is denied, you are still welcome to apply again in a future semester.
I had a second emergency, can I apply twice in one semester?
No, we do not grant more than one Emergency Bursary to a student in a semester. This ensures that we are able to help as many students as possible with the program.
I’m confused about a question on the application form.
If you have any questions about the application, or the Emergency Bursary Program at all, you can email <grants@yourtmsu.ca>
Are there limits to what I can use my bursary for?
Once you have been sent the cheque, that is your money to spend. In the application process the committee will look at your reasons for applying and will determine who will be given bursaries for that semester. Some things, like not being able to afford groceries for example, can be addressed through other programs we offer like the Good Food Centre, or other supports at TMU. We do our best to direct you to the service that can help you the most and ensure the Emergency Bursaries go to students who need them.
Other Grants
The TMSU Board of Directors may decide to offer grants or bursaries for specific purposes, events, or communities. In the past for example, a student residence caught fire and we provided a fund for students who lost items in the fire.
Any currently active TMSU grants are listed below, if you have questions about previous grants or ones that may be available in the future, please email grants@yourtmsu.ca.
