Learner Support Team - Financial Support

As a Per Scholas learner or alum, creating a personal spending plan helps protect your journey from unexpected disruptions. While Per Scholas does not provide direct stipends, we offer no-cost financial coaching and emergency support funds based on eligibility and availability. Explore the options below to see what resources are available to you.

Build a spending plan early to keep your financial goals on track. Per Scholas provides:

No-Cost Financial Coaching: Map out money strategies and discover helpful resources.
Emergency Supports: Access financial assistance programs based on eligibility, location, and funding (Note: Direct stipends are not offered).

Explore the resource options below to learn more about available support.

Footbridge Crisis Support (Pilot)

Eligibility

Currently enrolled in a LST's supported 2026 immersive cohorts (start dates between 4/13/26–12/7/26)
Alumni from eligible cohorts within 6 months post-graduation, pending availability
Footbridge’s financial assistance is not guaranteed and will be determined by Footbridge staff upon receipt of a referral from a Financial Coach.

What's Covered

Direct vendor payments to address an unexpected financial crisis

Covered

- Rent (eviction prevention)
- Utilities
- Certified Childcare
- Food and household items for stability
- Fees for obtaining ID documentation

NOT Covered

- - Hotel stays
  - Moving trucks
  - Security deposits
  - Credit card debt
  - Already-paid bills

Emergency Financial Support Funds

Eligibility

Currently enrolled in an LST-supported immersive training course
Experiencing an unexpected financial emergency
Must have a bank account in learner's name, able to receive direct deposit
Does not receive the Zero Percent Loan (ZPL)

What's Covered

One-time direct deposit up to $500 to address financial burdens

- National, subject to fund availability through 12/31/26

Learners without a bank account can work with their Financial Coach to open one

Gas Card Funds

Eligibility

Enrolled in an LST-supported immersive course
Facing gas-related financial hardship

What's Covered

Gas gift cards for class, interviews, or first-month commute to work

National, subject to fund availability

Public benefits are programs and services that the government provides to help individuals and families meet their basic needs and improve their overall well-being. These programs, which can be accessed at the federal, state, or local level, are funded by taxpayers and administered by government agencies and nonprofit organizations. They are there to support people who are going through difficult times.

Programs include Food Assistance, Health Insurance, Housing Help, Utility Bills, Welfare & Financial Assistance, Social Security, and more. You can also call 2-1-1 or visit their website for more information.

National Resource Guides

Who: Available to Per Scholas Full-time learners in select courses

What: $3,000 no interest loan (in three $1,000 monthly disbursements) to help with living expenses during your course

When: Apply up to 30 days before your course begins

Where: Application links are sent via email. Learners accepted to eligible cohorts may apply. Approval is determined by Ascent and is not guaranteed.

Zero Percent Loan from Ascent | LinktreeZero Percent Loan (ZPL) resources to explain the loan and answer your questions.