Graduate students at U of T have access to a number of forms of financial assistance through both the University and CUPE. For scholarships, fellowships, and bursaries, see our Awards page.
SGS Emergency Loans
These loans, administered by U of T’s School of Graduate Studies, are intended to alleviate temporary cash flow problems for students who are expecting to receive a payment in the near future from employment, fellowships, etc. The average loan amount is $1000 to $1500, provided interest-free until an agreed upon repayment date, which is normally no more than 120 days from the date of issue. Applications are processed within two business days, and approved funds will be transferred to your account via direct deposit within 48 hours of approval.
SGS Emergency Grants
Also administered by SGS, these grants are intended to provide “short-term financial relief to students in an immediate crisis caused by an unforeseen situation.” Applicants are expected to have explored all other avenues for financial support, including “their graduate unit, anticipated income, OSAP or other government assistance programs, personal savings, daycare subsidies, family support, and bank lines of credit, as appropriate,” prior to applying.
CUPE 3902 Financial Assistance Funds
CUPE 3902 administers a variety of funds aimed at supporting union members who receive inadequate financial support or who face particular expenses or challenges during their time as a graduate student. These funds typically have specific application periods, though several are available on a “rolling” basis throughout the year. The names of several of these funds and links to their info pages are provided below; also see the Unit 1 Benefits page for more details about the available funds and their application periods.