OISS Funding

OISS has a few methods of offering assistance specifically for international students and scholars who have a demonstrated financial need.

• The International Student Short Term Loan provides interim and limited interest-free loans to international students on F-1 and J-1 visas. This limited loan is designed to assist students who are experiencing a temporary cash flow problem. This loan is not intended to meet the needs of students who are experiencing continuous financial difficulties or to cover non-educational related expenses. The international student short-term loan must not exceed $2,000. This loan is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Funds are disbursed by the controller's office. 

• International Student Emergency Tuition Award (ETA): For a limited number of F-1 and J-1 students who experience financial hardship and are approaching completion of their program of study. For doctoral students who are all but dissertation, the award will cover one credit. For others, typically the award covers the cost of up to three credits. Spring 2025 ETA is now OPEN. The ETA will close once all funds have been exhausted.

• OISS International Student Emergency Assistance Award: Awards provide emergency assistance for enrolled F-1 or J-1 international students who are in critical, financial distress during their studies at Michigan State University: OISS is able to provide emergency financial assistance for international student drawing funds from the David D. Horner International Student Scholarship Fund or the International Student Emergency Fund. OISS also may utilize internal funds to support students. Typically, funds awarded are in the amount of $1,000 or less and are based on student need. Requests for larger amounts are accepted but may only be partially funded. The funds normally cannot be used for tuition expenses, but in rare circumstances exceptions may be made. Students may qualify for an Emergency assistance award one time during their degree program, although any multiple requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Students who are in the first semester of their program of study are generally not eligible for this award.  

• To apply for emergency assistance from OISS, please complete the OISS International Student Emergency Assistance Award e-form. If you have any questions about your financial concerns or this application, please consult your OISS advisor.

If you would like to support international students in financial need, you can donate to the David D. Horner International Student Scholarship Fund or donate to the International Student Emergency Fund.