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At Durham Tech, we understand that unexpected financial hardships can make it difficult for students to continue their education.
The Emergency Financial Assistance Grant provides a one-time payment to help currently enrolled students experiencing an unexpected financial emergency that may interfere with their ability to remain enrolled and continue their education. Funding is limited and is intended to address urgent, short-term needs.
Application Process
Students may apply for assistance by completing an online application using their Student Email login credentials. After submitting the application, students will be contacted to schedule a meeting.
If you have any questions before applying, please email the program administrator, Iesha Cleveland, or call at 919-536-7200, ext. 4201.
Complete Emergency Financial Assistance Application
Emergency Loan Option
Students who are receiving a Pell Grant refund may apply for an emergency loan of up to $1,000 to help cover expenses. A Promise to Pay Document must be signed, and a hold will be placed on the student’s account until the loan is repaid through their refund. Checks will not be made out to students—no exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for Emergency Financial Assistance?
Students may be considered for assistance if they:
- Are actively enrolled or registered in classes at Durham Technical Community College.
- Are in good academic standing (minimum GPA 2.0) or verified by approved Continuing Education program
- Are experiencing an unexpected financial emergency that may affect their ability to continue their education.
- Have not previously received Emergency Financial Assistance. Students may receive assistance one time only.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee funding. Requests are reviewed based on the student’s circumstances, available resources, and availability of funds.
- What is considered an emergency?
An emergency is generally an unexpected or unanticipated event that could interfere with a student’s ability to remain enrolled or continue attending classes. Prior to enrolling in classes, students should consider the costs of attendance as it relates to their personal financial obligations (housing, transportation, work schedule, etc.). Emergency funds cannot be used to replace these expenses unless there is a qualifying event.
For example, an unexpected job loss after enrolling in classes may be considered a qualifying event. A planned or anticipated change in income, such as reducing work hours to accommodate a class schedule, is not considered a qualifying event.
Depending on the circumstances and availability of funding, assistance may be considered for essential expenses such as:
- Rent
- Utilities, such as electricity or water
- Transportation emergencies, such as necessary car repairs
- Medical or dental emergencies
Students must provide documentation of the qualifying event and the related expense. For example, a utility bill. All requests are reviewed individually, and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval or funding.
- Can Emergency Financial Assistance be used to pay tuition and fees?
No. Tuition and college fees are not considered emergency expenses and are not covered by Emergency Financial Assistance.
Students who need assistance paying tuition or fees should explore Financial Aid (grants and loans), scholarships, or payment plan options.
- How often can I receive Emergency Financial Assistance?
Emergency Financial Assistance is available one time per student.
Because funds are limited, the program is intended to provide short-term assistance during an unexpected financial emergency rather than ongoing financial support.
- What should I do if I need help?
Contact the Student Supports and Basic Needs Office (email clevelandi@durhamtech.edu or call (919) 536-7200, ext. 4201) to discuss your situation and learn about available resources. Staff may also connect you with other college or community resources that could help address your needs.
Important: Emergency Financial Assistance is a limited resource intended to address unexpected financial emergencies. Submission of a request does not guarantee approval or funding.