Student assistance funds

We’re here to help with new opportunities and support when financial hardships jeopardize academic progress.

Finish Line Fund

We are excited to introduce "The Finish Line Fund," a program designed to support students in the home stretch of their B.S.W. or M.S.W. programs who may be facing financial challenges. The Finish Line Fund offers a one-time award of up to $3,000 to assist with tuition and fees. We understand the financial burdens that can sometimes accompany the pursuit of higher education, and this fund aims to help students successfully reach their academic finish line.

To be eligible for this award, students must meet certain criteria. Applicants should have successfully completed at least 6 credits in the upper-level B.S.W. Program or 12 credits in the M.S.W. Program. At the B.S.W. level, a major GPA of 3.0 or higher is required, while at the M.S.W. level, an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher is necessary. We believe that this fund can provide crucial support to students who are academically strong but may be facing financial challenges. Students can submit an application and supporting documentation to receive funds from The Finish Line Fund.  

Apply today

Turning Tassels Together: Graduation Aid

This innovative fund recognizes the significance of this pivotal moment in students' educational journey and offers a helping hand in the form of a $500 scholarship. By alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with graduation, we are hoping to empower graduates to confidently step into the next chapter of their lives. 

This initiative embodies the spirit of unity and shared achievement, fostering a sense of togetherness as students from diverse backgrounds unite to reach their educational milestones. Our hope is that this is not just a financial resource but a symbol of the collective support that surrounds B.S.W. and M.S.W. graduates as they prepare to turn their tassels and embark on a promising future.

Funds will be automatically applied to the accounts of eligible students who have applied to graduate each semester. Email sswinfo@vcu.edu with questions. 

Global Social Work Enrichment Fund

Our Global Social Work Enrichment Fund is designed to empower you with a world of opportunities. With $2,000 in funding for any VCU social work student who attends a School of Social Work-sponsored study abroad course, you can embark on a transformative study abroad experience that will not only enhance your skills but also broaden your horizons. Don't miss this chance to invest in your future and become a more globally aware and effective social work practitioner.

Funds will be automatically applied to the accounts of students who apply for and are accepted to a study abroad program. Email sswinfo@vcu.edu with questions. 

Pay It Forward Fund

The Pay It Forward Emergency Fund was created to assist our social work students who encounter an unforeseen financial emergency that would otherwise prevent them from continuing their education at VCU. 

More specifically, this emergency fund provides our students with financial support when faced with an unexpected, unforeseen and unavoidable emergency expense that may be related to an accident, illness, death of a family member, fire damage or need for temporary housing. We acknowledge that students are often faced with life-altering circumstances that have the potential to derail successful progression. Our goal is to ensure our students have access to emergency resources during times of need – enabling them to stay in school and make progress toward their degree. 

Currently enrolled social work students in the B.S.W., M.S.W. and Ph.D. programs may apply for funds for emergent financial needs. This funding is not intended to reimburse expenses that have already been paid, or to replace or supplement existing financial aid.