Rent Relief For University Students: Who Qualifies And How?

University students can receive help with rent through various means, including grants, scholarships, student loans, and government assistance programs. Grants and scholarships are need-based and are available from different organisations, agencies, and private companies. Student loans can also be used to pay for rent, but it is important to consider the size of the debt that must be repaid later. Additionally, government-sponsored programs such as Section 8 housing and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provide assistance to individuals at risk of housing insecurity.

Student loans

On-campus housing tends to be more affordable as it eliminates the need for furniture, security deposits, and utility payments. It may also include meals. Off-campus housing, on the other hand, typically requires a security deposit, and students are responsible for utilities like heat, electricity, and internet service.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of room and board in the US in 2022–23 was $12,639 at a public four-year college or $14,406 at a private school. This figure can be even higher if you live in a fraternity or sorority house.

When it comes to accessing student loans, it's important to fill out the Federal Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible in the prior academic year. This form is used to calculate your ability to pay for college based on your reported income. Depending on your expected contribution and the anticipated cost of tuition and housing, you might qualify for federal grants, such as Pell Grants, which are the largest grants available from the government.

Once you've been approved for a student loan, your college or university will deduct your tuition and related fees first, especially if you're not receiving other financial aid. Most schools will also deduct your on-campus housing costs if you're living in the dorms. After these expenses are paid, the institution will send you any leftover loan money, usually by direct deposit into your bank account.

It's important to plan ahead and ensure that enough financial aid is available to cover tuition, fees, and rent. Additionally, consider finding roommates to share your living space with, as this can help reduce your monthly rent and other housing-related expenses.

Grants

To receive financial assistance, prospective college students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The form is used to calculate your ability to pay for college based on your reported income. Depending on your expected contribution and anticipated cost of tuition and housing, you might qualify for federal grants. Pell Grants are the largest grants available from the government. For the 2013 to 2014 academic year, the minimum grant for a full-time student was $582, and the maximum was $5,645 annually. Students with exceptional financial need may also qualify for a Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant of up to $4,000.

States may offer additional grants to financially needy students. For example, at the time of publication, California offers qualifying students grants of up to $12,192 a year for tuition and other related expenses. Students must complete a FAFSA to apply. Applicants must meet specific income and academic requirements. In Iowa, students can receive up to $1,000 a year. Texas students with a low to moderate income may qualify for $7,400 per year from the state program. Refer to your state's student aid commission for available programs.

The school's financial aid office can provide information on getting help with housing costs. Some schools offer need-based grants to students who fall below certain income limits. Inquire about scholarship or work-study programs for your particular major. Funding is often limited, so it is best to apply as soon as possible for assistance. In Florida, some colleges choose to participate in the need-based First Generation Matching Grant Program. The program offers grants to students who are the first in their families to earn a baccalaureate degree.

Private organizations commonly offer grants to help with education expenses, including housing. Specific eligibility requirements vary depending on the organization. The national nonprofit group Farmers of America awards annual grants to applicants who demonstrate financial need. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation offers supplemental grants to students of military veterans awarded the Purple Heart. Many businesses offer need and merit-based scholarships. Some are limited to students pursuing a career in a specific industry. For example, Tylenol offers scholarships for students in the medical field.

Scholarships

Federal Aid and Grants

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step in seeking financial aid for college. The FAFSA can give students access to Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Teacher Education Assistance Grants, and more. These grants can be used for housing and tuition, as well as other fees. It is important to complete the FAFSA as early as possible and by the deadline.

School Scholarships and Grants

Many universities offer scholarships and grants that can be applied to housing. Students should visit their university's scholarship webpage to explore the academic scholarships they may be eligible for. Some schools may automatically consider students for awards, while others may require a special application. It is also recommended to reach out to the Financial Aid Office to inquire about any adjustments due to life changes, such as a parent losing their job or unexpected medical expenses.

Private Organization Scholarships and Grants

Private organizations often offer scholarships and grants to help with education expenses, including housing. For example, the national nonprofit group Farmers of America awards annual grants to applicants demonstrating financial need. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation offers supplemental grants to students of military veterans awarded the Purple Heart. Many businesses also offer need-based and merit-based scholarships, some specific to students pursuing a career in a particular industry. For instance, Tylenol provides scholarships for students in the medical field.

State Grants

Some states offer additional grants to financially needy students. It is recommended to refer to the state's student aid commission for available programs. For example, California offers qualifying students grants of up to $12,192 per year for tuition and related expenses, while Texas students with low to moderate incomes may qualify for $7,400 per year from the state program.

Online Scholarship Databases

Websites like Scholarships360 and Fastweb offer scholarship search tools that match students with vetted scholarships. These platforms provide access to exclusive scholarships and make it easier to find opportunities tailored to the student's academic and personal profile.

Resident Assistant Positions

Becoming a Resident Assistant (RA) is another option for students seeking help with rent. RAs typically receive free housing and occasionally a meal plan, as well as an hourly wage. These positions can be competitive, so it is advisable to apply as early as possible.

In conclusion, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available to help university students with rent. By exploring federal aid, school scholarships, private organization grants, state grants, and online scholarship databases, students can find the financial support they need to cover their housing expenses.

Work-study programs

Work-study positions can be found both on-campus and with approved off-campus employers. These jobs allow students to develop valuable skills and gain work experience, which can enhance their overall employability. Additionally, studies have shown that working while taking classes can positively impact academic performance. The pay rate for work-study jobs varies depending on the position and the skills required, and students are paid on a bi-weekly basis.

To be eligible for work-study, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet the general eligibility requirements for federal aid. It is important to note that work-study funding is limited, and not all students who apply will receive it. Priority is often given to those who applied for financial aid by the priority deadline. The amount of work-study funding a student can receive is usually specified in their financial aid offer, and this amount is the maximum they can earn for the academic year.

For example, at the University of Denver, new students can typically earn up to $2,500 in their first year, while second-, third-, and fourth-year students can earn up to $3,000 each year. Students employed in work-study positions are responsible for finding and applying for these jobs, and they must go through the standard hiring process, including a background check and completing the necessary employment forms.

In addition to federal work-study programs, some universities also offer campus-funded work-study opportunities. These programs are open to all students with work authorizations in the US, regardless of their financial aid status. Students can inquire about work-study programs specific to their university by contacting their financial aid or student employment office.

Housing benefits

University students can get help with rent through housing benefits, although this depends on various factors, such as whether they are part-time or full-time students, their age, and their income.

Part-Time Students

Part-time students can usually claim housing benefits. This is because their student loan is viewed as income and is used to adjust the level of living and housing cost support they receive.

Full-Time Students

Most full-time students are not entitled to housing benefits. However, there are some exceptions. Full-time students can claim housing benefits if they:

• Are responsible for children.
• Are a lone foster carer.
• Are under 21 and not in higher education (for example, studying A-levels at college).
• Are under 20 and are claimed as a dependent on someone else's taxes.
• Are receiving a state pension.
• Are receiving certain disability benefits.
• Leave their course temporarily because of illness or caring responsibilities.
• Live in supported accommodation and receive universal credit.

Income

Income is also a factor in determining whether a student can claim housing benefits. Students with low incomes may be eligible for housing benefits, while those with higher incomes may not qualify. Additionally, if a student lives with a partner who is not a student, they can claim housing benefits as a couple. However, the student's income, such as their student grant or loan, will be taken into account and may reduce the amount of benefit the partner is entitled to.

Location-Specific Benefits

Frequently asked questions