Student Support Services

Financial Emergency Aid Team

Download as PDF

If you’re facing an unexpected financial emergency or severe economic hardship, ArtCenter’s Financial Emergency Aid Team (FEAT) is here to support you. FEAT is a team of staff from the Financial Aid Office and the Center for the Student Experience (CSE). We work together to help students navigate unexpected financial challenges. Depending on your needs, we may also collaborate with other campus offices, such as Title IX, Accounting, Academic Advising, and others, to ensure you receive the best support available.

Email FEAT@artcenter.edu to get started.

Please note: While we treat all requests with care and discretion, messages sent to FEAT may be shared with other ArtCenter offices involved in providing support.

What Kind of Help is Available?

  • One-time or temporary emergency grants you don’t have to repay
  • Help connecting with campus resources
  • Guidance on scholarships, financial aid, and loans

Every student’s situation is reviewed individually. This type of funding is intended specifically for students facing serious, unexpected economic hardship or unplanned emergency situations that are disrupting their ability to remain enrolled and succeed at ArtCenter. You’re welcome to reach out even if you’ve received other types of financial aid before. Funding is limited, so while we may not be able to meet every need, we’ll do our best to support you.

Financial Emergency Aid awards might be considered reportable income for U.S. tax purposes. Please consult a tax professional.

Facing a Specific Challenge?

Housing Insecurity

If you’re worried about where you’re going to stay or facing unstable housing, email FEAT right away. We’ll follow up quickly, listen to your situation, and connect you with helpful resources. You can also check out the Housing Resources page for more information.

Food Insecurity

If you’re skipping meals or struggling to afford food, you’re not alone—and support is available. Visit Fighting Food Insecurity on Campus to learn more about our food pantry and other programs.

Additional Financial Support

Financial Aid Review

As part of the FEAT process, the Financial Aid Office will review your file and reach out to explore any additional financial aid options that might be available.

Scholarships

Students may wish to take part in the Continuing Scholarship Portfolio Review process during the term. Look for submission requirements and deadlines from academic departments and the Financial Aid Office at the beginning of each term.

Outside Scholarships

Explore external scholarships from organizations outside of ArtCenter here.

Private Loans

If you need additional funding, a private loan may be an option. Review information about private loans here, including a link to Fast Choice, a tool that can help you compare private loan options before applying.

Questions? Need to Talk?

You’re always welcome to visit the Financial Aid Office for a one-on-one appointment. Whether you’re dealing with a financial emergency or just need help figuring out your options, we’re here for you. You can find the Financial Aid Office at Hillside, Room 264, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.