Student Travel Fund
The Student Travel Fund Committee (STFC) provides travel reimbursement to currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students attending educational conferences or competitions for enrichment or presenting academic research. Students can apply for this once a semester.
STFC Application Process
Before your trip, you must:
1. Complete the Student Travel Funding Application using the Apply for Funding button.
2. Complete and sign GC Travel and Liability Waiver
3. Complete and sign the appropriate tax form: U.S. students: W-9 Form. International students: W-8BEN, as applicable.
Recommended deadline: Submit your application at least 72 hours before departure. Your application must be submitted before you travel.
After your trip, you must:
Within 10 business days of returning, submit the Post-Travel Report with:
● Completed Travel Expense Form
● Required liability waiver and tax documentation
● Itemized receipts for eligible expenses
● Proof of attendance at the conference or competition
Important: Save your itemized receipts and proof of attendance during your trip!
STFC Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Can I Receive?
● Presenting academic research: Up to $400
● Attending for educational enrichment: Up to $200 Students may receive STFC funding once per academic year. Funding is discretionary, depends on available funds, and is not guaranteed.
What Expenses Are Covered?
Eligible expenses may include:
● Hotel rooms and hotel parking
● Airfare and baggage fees
● Meals
● Uber, Lyft, and other ground transportation
● Conference registration fees
● Vehicle rentals and gasoline
Expenses not covered include:
● Alcohol
● Entertainment
● Valet parking when self-parking is available
● Airline seat selection fees
● Travel insurance
● Airbnb or other private-residence lodging
● Mileage reimbursement Receipts containing alcohol cannot be processed through STFC.
When Will I Get Reimbursed?
STFC provides reimbursement only. You must pay your travel expenses upfront. After your trip, submit the required documentation for review and processing. Approved reimbursements are issued by mailed check. Applying does not guarantee funding
Can I Receive Other Funding?
Yes! Your college or department may offer additional travel support. Contact your academic office first and disclose other funding sources in your STFC application.
STFC vs. MURACE
MURACE primarily supports students presenting original research or creative projects completed under the guidance of GCSU faculty or teaching staff. Check the MURACE website for its eligibility requirements. STFC may be an alternative if your travel does not qualify for MURACE or your expenses exceed available MURACE funding.
Student Organization Funding: SABC vs. Bills
SABC Funding
SABC provides annual funding to registered student organizations for general operating expenses.
● Who can apply? Registered organizations with a faculty or staff advisor.
● What can it cover? Supplies, memberships, registrations, and approved food and beverages.
● How do you apply? Submit a budget request through GC Connect during the spring funding cycle.
Bill Funding
Organizations can request additional funding through SGA Senate bills for specific events or purchases.
● How do you request it? Contact your assigned SGA senator to discuss submitting a bill.
● What happens next? The bill must be presented to and approved by Senate.
● After approval: Your organization will be notified when the approved funds are available in GC Connect.
Important: Purchases must be approved before items are bought. Organizations cannot receive reimbursement for items already purchased through the bill process.
What's the Difference?
● SABC: Annual funding for general organization expenses.
● Bills: Funding for specific purchases or events