Emergency Book Voucher Program
Emergency Book Voucher Program
The Emergency Book Voucher Program provides one-time assistance for students experiencing an unexpected financial emergency that prevents them from purchasing required textbooks. Examples may include illness, loss of income, housing instability, or other unforeseen crises. This program is intended as a last-resort resource after other options, such as financial aid, personal resources, family support, or community assistance, have been explored. Funding is limited, and eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. Submission of an application does not guarantee approval.
Terms and Conditions
- Funding is available during the fall and spring semesters only.
- There are no citizenship or immigration status requirements to apply.
- First-semester students, and CUSP students are not eligible for book vouchers.
- Students with an outstanding balance from a previous semester are not eligible.
- Book vouchers may only be used to purchase required course textbooks listed on an official course syllabus.
- Students eligible to file a FAFSA must complete all required financial aid documentation before assistance can be considered.
Program Goals
- Access for All: Ensure every student can obtain required course materials.
- Retention & Success: Reduce financial barriers to support academic progress.
- Empowerment: Allow students to focus on learning, not financial stress.
Key Features
- Fast Assistance: Quick review and approval for urgent needs.
- Flexible Options: Use for new, used, or digital books.
- Equity & Inclusion: Designed to remove financial barriers for all students.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for an Emergency Book Voucher, you must:
- Demonstrate an unexpected financial hardship or emergency that impacts your ability to purchase required textbooks.
- Be a matriculated John Jay College student who is currently enrolled and registered for the semester you are requesting assistance.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (undergrad.) 3.0 (grad.).
- Have completed at least one semester at John Jay College.
Award Limits
- Students may receive one (1) Emergency Book Voucher per academic year.
- Voucher amounts range from $100 to $500 and are determined based on financial need, eligibility, and available funding.
- Books costing less than $100 are not eligible for assistance. Students may not combine the cost of multiple books to meet the $100 minimum requirement.
What is a book voucher?
A credit that allows students to purchase textbooks from the John Jay College Bookstore.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility is based on financial need, enrollment status, and available financial aid after tuition and fees.
How does it work?
- Eligible students can receive up to $500 in textbooks and codes once per year.
- Funds are limited—verify required books and codes at the bookstore before requesting.
When to request?
Submit your request within the first 14 days of classes for timely access.
What can I buy?
Textbooks and codes only. School supplies and merchandise are not allowed.
Refunds & Expiration
- No cash refunds; unused funds return to the program.
- Vouchers expire 14 days after issue.
- No reimbursement for books purchased on your own.
Do I repay the voucher?
No, it does not need to be repaid.
Unused funds?
Returned to the program and may be applied per college policy.
Online classes?
Yes, online students are eligible.
Future semesters?
No, vouchers cover current semester only.
If the voucher isn’t enough?
Explore financial aid options, budget for extra costs, or consider used/rental books. Contact Financial Aid for help.
Application Review Process
- Applications are reviewed based on eligibility requirements, documented financial need, and available funding.
- Students will be notified through their John Jay email if additional information or documentation is needed.
- If approved, students will receive instructions for accessing and using their book voucher.
- If required textbooks are available through the College bookstore, purchases are typically available within 48–72 hours after voucher processing.
Please note: Submission of an application does not guarantee approval. Funding is limited and availability may vary throughout the academic year.
Instructions for Completing and Submitting the Application
Please complete all sections of this application and provide all required supporting documents. Incomplete applications may delay processing or be denied.
Before You Begin
- Review the eligibility requirements for the Emergency Book Voucher Program.
- Have your course syllabi and textbook information available.
- Gather documentation that supports your financial hardship, if applicable.
Required Documents
Please submit the following with your application:
☐ Course syllabus for each textbook requested
☐ Bookstore cart, quote, or screenshot showing textbook costs (including shipping, if applicable)
☐ Documentation supporting your financial hardship (if available)
☐ Username and password for digital course access (only if requesting assistance with online access codes or e-books)
Submission Instructions
Submit your completed application and all supporting documents to: emergencyfunding@jjay.cuny.edu
Important Information
- Submission of an application does not guarantee approval.
- Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, available funding, and supporting documentation.
- Students may be contacted for additional information or documentation.
- Failure to submit required documents may result in your application not being reviewed.
- If approved, book voucher assistance will be provided based on program guidelines and available resources.
Questions?
If you need assistance completing this application or determining your financial aid status, please contact Emergency Funding Services
Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/3fstjst9
Book Store Link : https://www.cuny.edu/accessibility/applications/bookstore/