Medical transition can be expensive! There are a few UCSB specific grants and relief funds that might help you afford surgery. If you are concerned about being able to pay for your surgery, reach out to a UCSB social worker or talk to your surgery center about payment plans/charity options.
The AS/EOP Grant funds can be used to meet unusual expenses incurred by members of UCSB’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) for first-generation university students. To be eligible for the grant, a student must be an EOP member, enrolled at least half time, and receiving need-based financial aid. Medical expenses, including gender-affirming care, not covered in full by a student’s insurance can be covered by this grant. For medical procedures and appointments, EOP must pay the bill directly. For summer surgeries to be covered, the student must be enrolled in at least one summer session. Additionally, costs must be incurred within the current fiscal year (July 1st-June 31st) to apply.
To apply, students must make an appointment to see an EOP counselor. During the appointment the counselor will review eligibility and application requirements. If eligible, students will complete the application with the EOP counselor. Appointments may be scheduled on their website, by calling (805) 893-4758, or by visiting the EOP front desk in the Student Resource Building, Suite 221. We recommend starting your application as soon as you have an estimated cost. The application takes time to process and this grant tends to run out of funds by the end of the academic year
The Jack Canfield Student Medical Emergency Relief Fund (SMERF) provides grants to students with expenses related to medical, dental, psychological, and optical emergencies. As of Fall 2026, there are funds available specifically for gender-affirming medical care and presentation support.
Apply to SMERF here!
The EMH fund at UCSB is specifically intended to address the financial barriers which prevent students from accessing mental health resources. Some examples of costs associated with Mental Health include assessment & testing, medications, and co-pays that are not already covered by insurance. Other expenses related to accessing needed mental health services & supports may be considered. If you would like to be considered for this fund source in particular, please indicate "Mental Health" on the SMERF application under Type of Emergency.
Here is a list of scholarships and internships we’ve compiled. While these forms of assistance are not specifically medical, some of these funds may be used for medical costs or to ease other financial burdens.