Emergency Assistance for Postsecondary Students (EAPS) Grant
Forecasted
Emergency Assistance for Postsecondary Students (EAPS) Grant supports Minnesota college students through campus-run emergency aid for unforeseen financial crises, helping them stay enrolled and complete college.
Funder: Minnesota Office of Higher Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Proposal submission)
Funding Amounts: Up to $75,000 per year, $150,000 maximum; two-year grant contracts
Summary: Supports Minnesota institution-run emergency assistance programs helping students overcome unforeseen financial crises and remain in college.
Key Information: Applicants must be private nonprofit or Tribally affiliated postsecondary institutions with a Minnesota campus and a demonstrable homeless student population.
Description
The Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) administers the Emergency Assistance for Postsecondary Students (EAPS) Grant to improve postsecondary attendance, retention, and completion for low-income students facing unforeseen financial emergencies. Established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2017, the program addresses immediate needs related to housing, food, and transportation that could otherwise prevent students from completing their term or program.
EAPS funds campus-administered emergency assistance, not research. Institutions may pay students directly, pay third parties on students’ behalf, or provide gift cards. The program prioritizes improving short-term outcomes for students experiencing homelessness and food insecurity, providing holistic assistance and referrals, and connecting campus and community resources to support students in crisis.
