Quebec Universities Are Making Emergency Funds Available For Students

Even more financial relief is on the way, this time for students. In response to the current situation, Quebec universities are setting up an emergency fund. There's an influx of university students who are facing financial difficulties and despite classes continuing remotely, some students are deciding to drop out of school entirely. This funding aims to assist those students who can't afford to meet their basic needs during the crisis. 

The following schools have either established an emergency fund or are making other financial aid available: Université de Quebec campuses across the province, McGill University, Concordia University, Université de Montréal, Université Laval, and Université de Sherbrooke. 

Students can apply with their respective institutions. In all cases, the emergency fund only applies to full-time students who are registered for classes during the 2019-2020 semester. 

UQÀM, for instance, has raised an initial amount of $300,000. Students there must prove that they've lost their income and show how they are financially at risk. 

Other universities have raised similar amounts but are asking donors to provide as much assistance as they can. The funds aim to cover students' living expenses such as food and rent as well as medical expenses.

Here's how to apply at each school.

McGill

McGill is pointing students to its Scholarships & Student Aid Office to make a request for In-Course Financial Aid. McGill students who require emergency financial assistance must apply online.

Université de Montreal 

UdeM students can begin applying for emergency financial aid on April 8. The institution will announce the full details on the day. 

UQÀM 

An initial amount of $300,000 will be dispersed among UQÀM students who apply. The funding is meant to cover living costs. Students can apply here. 

READ ALSO: The Government Just Launched A New Initiative To Help Support Quebec Businesses

Université Laval 

UL students who are in a precarious financial situation can apply for an emergency fund totalling $500,000 starting April 6.

Visit the university's website to find out more. 

Concordia 

Along with postponing tuition payments and waiving certain fees, Concordia has made $500,000 available to assist students with financial difficulties. Full details on how to apply are available on Concordia University's website. 

Université de Sherbrooke 

UdeS students can begin applying for the school's emergency relief funding as of April 6. You must be a full-time student and have a record with the school to apply. 

Find out more at UdeS's website.

The provincial and federal governments have also announced financial relief programs.

Individuals whose jobs have been impacted by the pandemic can apply to receive $2,000 a month for four months from the Government of Canada.

In Quebec, essential workers who make less than $2,000/month will also benefit from a $1,600 bonus over four months.

Stay tuned for more news.