ARPA: Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF III)
On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law authorizing additional resources for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, HEERF III. It provides $39.6 billion in support to institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.
On May 20, 2021 Mount St. Joseph University received an award notification that allocated $3,705,042 to the University of which $1,855,552 is designated as the “student aid portion” and $1,849,490 for institutional expenses. Emergency funds available to all institutions and their students under the three HEERF emergency fund measures total $76.2 billion.
The University is working to develop a process to make these new resources available to students in accordance with the Department of Education’s rules and expectations. This information will be updated as the University makes determinations on eligibility for student groups.
Who is eligible for HEERF III emergency assistance?
Any student enrolled at the Mount on or after March 13, 2020 is potentially eligible for HEERF III federal assistance. While this is not considered a financial aid program, federal guidelines require schools to “prioritize grants to students with exceptional financial need, such as those who receive Pell Grants or are undergraduates with extraordinary financial circumstances.”
Eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant program and determination of exceptional financial need are established by the calculated results of a processed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who have not yet completed a 2021-22 FAFSA should do so.
The American Rescue Plan does allow schools to give consideration to international students, students who are undocumented, asylum seekers, DACA recipients, and other DREAMers. HEERF III emergency grants are awarded to help students cover expenses related to the cost of attendance (i.e., tuition, food, housing and utilities, health insurance including mental health care, technology expenses, transportation, or childcare) and for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus.
The University has recently launched an outreach campaign that includes texts, informational videos, and emails. Please be on the lookout for these communications to learn more.
Other Aid-Related Federal COVID Relief Measures
Financial Aid Adjustments: Students or families who have experienced a loss of income in 2021 compared to the 2019 income reported on the 2021-22 FAFSA (due to a job loss or other loss of income), may be eligible to have your financial aid adjusted. The MSJ Special Circumstances Form for 2021-22 will ask you and your parents (if applicable) to report your estimated 2021 income.
SNAP Benefit Extension: Students enrolled at least half-time and having a -0- EFC or eligible for state or federal work-study were given eligibility to apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through the passing of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.
Emergency Broadband Benefit: Authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, this Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiative provides qualifying households (including Federal Pell Grant recipients) discounts on internet service and a computer or tablet purchase.
Student Loan Emergency Relief Measures: Students and parent borrowers have payment forbearance, defaulted loan collection suspension, and 0% interest on U.S. Department of Education-held loans with the passing of the CARES Act and extensions made through executive action (currently through 9/30/21).
Related Questions and Campus Contacts
The following offices can assist students with additional questions:
Academic advising and registration for upcoming semesters: advising@msj.edu; 513-244-4213
Student Administrative Services for financial aid & billing questions: financial.aid@msj.edu; 513-244-4418
Payment plan options for students not currently enrolled: fiscal.ops@msj.edu; 513-244-4236
Registrar for transcripts and diplomas: registrar@msj.edu; 513-244-4621
Wellness Center for all health and counseling services: wellness.center@msj.edu; 513-244-4949