Steven L. Shaw Memorial International Student Emergency Fund

University at Buffalo is home to more than 4,500 international students from all over the world. These students’ participation in the classroom and presence on campus contribute to a diverse and inclusive educational experience that benefits all students, helping to prepare them for an increasingly global society.

The Office of International Education and the broader UB community want to ensure that international students, regardless of where they’re from, have the financial support they need during times of crisis and emergency. The Steven L. Shaw Memorial International Student Emergency Fund provides emergency assistance to international students in financial distress.

• Medical emergencies or natural disasters impacting the student or student’s immediate family,
• Victim of a crime or accident,
• Loss of property or income,
• Unanticipated educational expenses (beyond tuition or university fees)

1. Demonstrate financial need as a result of unforeseen circumstances.
2. Have considered all other resources, including emergency loans, which were insufficient, unavailable, or not available in a timely manner.
3. Be a degree-seeking UB student in good academic standing.
   • Undergraduate definition of good academic standing
   • Graduate definition of good academic standing
4. Hold and maintain a valid student visa, F-1 or J-1.
   • Maintaining F-1 status
   • Maintaining J-1 Status
5. Complete an online application form.
   • International Student Emergency Fund Application

Expenses covered by the Steven L. Shaw Memorial International Student Emergency fund may include:

The award amount is based on a review of your application materials. The amount of financial assistance awarded is typically US $500 per student per calendar year. Awards are based on the availability of the funds and strength of the application. Completed applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Each request is reviewed individually. Many factors will be considered in making a decision to approve or deny a request. These factors include, but are not limited to:

• The nature and urgency of the student's emergency;
• The totality of the student's hardships;
• Other resources or support that may or may not be available to the student;
• The specific and immediate impacts the emergency may be having on the student's living and academic circumstances; and,
• Other information provided by third parties, such as advocates or advisors, that may help to illuminate and clarify the student's situation in developing appropriate rationale for decision.