Rust Opportunity Assistance Fund

If you experience an unforeseen financial situation, the Rust Opportunity Assistance Fund may be an optional resource.

If you're facing an unforeseen financial emergency that could disrupt your education, the Rust Opportunity Assistance Fund may help you continue your studies and complete your CNM certificate or degree. Applications are reviewed individually, and awards are made based on need and specific circumstances. Your academic performance and progress in your program will be important factors in the final decision.

You are encouraged to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for possible additional financial assistance. 

Note: The fund does not cover tuition, car payments, insurance, cell phone, cable bills, credit cards, loans, or lawyer fees. Or any type of expenses that are considered foreseen circumstances. For Housing requests, there must be a documentable mitigating circumstance to accompany the request as well as a current lease agreement or mortgage statement.

Application Requirements

To apply, submit a completed application along with the following:

  1. Completed Rust Scholarship Application (PDF).
  2. Personal Statement explaining:
    • The reason for emergency funds and how they will be used.
    • The exact amount requested and who to pay.
    • Why you haven’t filed a FAFSA (if applicable).
    • Your educational and/or career goals.
  3. Two recommendation letters (from a current instructor and an advisor).
  4. Supporting documentation of your emergency (e.g. layoff notice, medical bills/documentation, police report, receipts, lease agreement or mortgage statement, eviction notice).
  5. Payment contact information, this may mean including a W-9 with the information of the provider or vendor for direct payment

These documents will be used to determine the financial emergency and the amount of the award. Copies of original documents must be submitted. Supporting documentation will not be returned.

Only complete applications will be reviewed.

Information About Processing Your Application

Applications are reviewed twice a week (Tuesday/Thursday). You'll be contacted by email or phone regarding approval or denial. If approved, you'll receive an award check payable to the service provider. Awards are limited to once per 12 months.

Submitting Documentation

Please submit the completed application with the required documentation to [email protected].