A transgender senior at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has raised more than $85,000 in just three days after being ordered to leave campus housing weeks before graduation. The student, identified as Matthew N., to protect his privacy, lost family financial support after coming out. Because MIT calculates aid using parental income, Matthew did not qualify for institutional assistance.
Appeals for independent status were denied, despite documentation from medical professionals and an LGBTQ+ support organization. Without full registration due to unpaid balances, Matthew could not enroll in classes, receive grades, or be paid for campus jobs. His health insurance was also canceled this spring. To help him, the classmates launched a fundraiser as the deadline approached, raising $86,212—surpassing its goal—in three days. Matthew said, “I am in awe of the immense kindness and generosity of everyone who donated. I am incredibly excited to graduate.”
Advocates say the case highlights gaps in financial aid systems, which often assume parental support—leaving many queer students, especially transgender students, at greater financial risk.
