The International Student Financial Assistance Fund (ISFAF) was established to help international students facing unforeseen changes in their ability to finance their tuition. The fund is intended to provide one-time assistance to help defray the cost of tuition during a semester in which such unforeseen circumstances arise.
What qualifies as an unforeseen circumstance?
We recognize there are many situations that might impact an individual student’s financing. The ISFAF is geared towards students whose financing plan and ability to pay have been impacted by wide-spread events in their home country, whether political, environmental, or economic.
The ISFAF is applicable toward tuition costs only. We encourage students who are experiencing other unforeseen costs outside of the standard costs of education to review their eligibility to apply to the Student Hardship Fund.
Bentley students who are non-US citizens or non-permanent residents at either the undergraduate or graduate level may apply for the semester in which they have been impacted. Approvals generally range from $500 to $2,000, although in certain cases there may be some flexibility.
To be considered eligible, a student must:
- Be a matriculated student pursuing courses toward a Bentley degree.
- Be currently enrolled in the term they are applying for funds.
- Be in good standing.
- Demonstrate financial hardship due to a situation that jeopardizes the student's ability to successfully continue in school.
- Consider and utilize other sources of funding as appropriate.
Click the “Apply Now” button below and follow the instructions. Students should be prepared to describe their circumstances and provide any relevant documentation.
As a requirement for consideration, applicants will meet with senior members from the Office of Student Financial Services (SFS) and Center for International Students and Scholars (CISS) to discuss their application, other financing options, future plans, and other impactful issues, as applicable. Students are welcome to invite other advisors they have been working with at their discretion.
Please note, the ISFAF is applicable toward tuition costs only and is meant as a single-semester short-term solution. While all applicants must attend a joint SFS/CISS meeting, this is not a guarantee of fund approval.
Generally, students may be considered and approved for funds once. However, if new circumstances should arise, subsequent applications may be considered at the discretion of SFS and CISS.
Do you qualify for funding?
Contact
If you have questions about the International Student financial Assistance Fund, please email Student Financial Services at sfs@bentley.edu.