Funding Options

Stanford Support Programs

The University has created the following programs specifically for graduate students dealing with challenging financial situations. For information about financial support programs for postdocs, go to the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs website.


Graduate Cash Advance Program

A Cash Advance option is available to graduate and professional students to assist with expenses before graduate financial support is posted to their student account and/or TA/RA salary is paid.  Active degree-seeking graduate students can request an advance in the amount of $1000, $2000, or $3000 per term via Axess. For more information including repayment requirements, visit Student Financial Services.


Emergency Grant-In-Aid Funds

Emergency Grant-in-Aid Funds assist graduate students who experience a financial emergency or unanticipated expenses (e.g., medical or dental) causing financial hardship.

Temporary COVID-19 Related funding: Additional Grant-In-Aid funds have been made available to assist graduate students in this unusual situation. Expenses considered include but are not limited to unexpected travel expenses, expenses related to academic activities performed from home, costs incurred as a result of carrying out essential research on campus, or accommodation for unexpected changes in family finances.

For more detailed information and application procedures please refer to the Emergency Grant-In-Aid instructions and application form.


Graduate Student Aid Fund

The Graduate Student Aid Fund assists graduate students with health related University fees such as the Campus Health Service Fee and Cardinal Care Insurance premiums when those expenses create a significant financial hardship.  Additionally, the fund has been expanded to consider expenses for covering a spouse through the dependent health insurance plan offered through Vaden for students with no children who are not eligible for the Graduate Family Grant (see below).  Students who demonstrate need will be eligible for a small grant in support of specific charges; the specific amounts are dependent on the individual student situation. Eligibility decisions for professional degree candidates in the Graduate School of Business, School of Law, and School of Medicine will be made in consultation with the school’s Financial Aid Office. For more detailed information and application procedures please refer to the Graduate Student Aid Fund instructions and application form.


Graduate Family Grant Program

Stanford’s Graduate Family Grant program has been extended for 2020-2021. The maximum award will be $15,000; eligibility is based on your family income and number of dependent children as well as their ages. The Family Grant is available to all graduate students. Funds may be used flexibly to cover expenses such as childcare, healthcare, insurance and rent. Please review the program guidelines before completing the application.

COVID-related expenses are being handled through Emergency Grant-In-Aid Funds.


Graduate Housing Loan

Graduate and professional students may apply for loan funds from the University to help with move-in costs for off-campus housing, such as first and last month's rent and security deposit. Details on eligibility, loan terms, and application process are available at Graduate Housing Loan.

Updated on April 21, 2021 5:19 PM