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During the period of March 16 - April 27 Queen’s University has provided $2.18 million in emergency bursary funding to undergraduate and graduate students as part of its response to COVID-19. (University Communications)

As part of its ongoing response to COVID-19, Queen’s University has provided $2.18 million in emergency bursary funding to undergraduate and graduate students from March 16, 2020 to April 27, 2020. The assistance is designed to help with some of the financial challenges posed by the pandemic.

“The strength of the Queen’s student experience is rooted in our sense of community and the support it can provide,” says Ann Tierney, Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs. “As the world continues to grapple with the effects of COVID-19, we recognize that many students have short-term, unexpected financial needs, and through this effort we hope to help ease some of their financial pressures.”

Though not intended to cover long-term expenses for students, this supplemental bursary assistance offers some relief for those encountering extenuating and unplanned financial burdens because of the outbreak, such as the loss of employment income or unexpected medical expenses not covered by students’ health plans. 

Alumni, friends of Queen’s, faculty, staff and students have been demonstrating their generosity and making contributions towards the . These gifts have made a real difference in students’ lives.

Students who are eligible for the federal government’s  have also qualified for Queen’s bursary assistance. On April 22, the federal government announced several new measures to support postsecondary students, such as the Canada Emergency Student Benefit that will provide support to students and new graduates who are not eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

As we prepare for the 2020-21 academic year and move into the summer and fall terms, the university will continue to explore tailored solutions to help those who continue to feel the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis.

Aid for international graduate students

International students a number of obstacles to overcome as a result of COVID-19, including travel barriers and barriers to employment. In response, all international graduate students who previously applied for a Queen’s General Bursary and demonstrated unmet need have received a $1,500 emergency bursary.

“Our international graduate students face particular challenges, and we are committed to helping them through this uncertain period,” says Tierney.

International graduate students are also encouraged to contact their embassies, as their home countries may have established assistance programs as well.

For information and to apply for COVID-19 emergency bursary assistance, visit the Queen’s Financial Aid website. In addition to financial assistance, students can access other supports, including the Queen’s University International Centre, Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre, Student Academic Success Services, the Office of the Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies, and their department and faculty offices. To learn more about these services and to reach out, visit the Student Affairs COVID-19 information website.

Note: This article originally appeared in the Queen's Gazette.