President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021 on March 11. This act grants the Department of Education $39.6 billion to use for education institutions to fight COVID-19. The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) III will distribute funds to the schools. As a result of this program, NCC received $3.2 million dollars for COVID relief grants.
“North Central College has received $3.2 million as part of HEERF III to directly support students who have demonstrated need and are facing financial challenges because of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic” said the Office of Financial Aid.
HEERF’s purpose
This program helps students continue their education throughout COVID-19 and emergencies. The money is to help expenses related to education. This includes attendance, housing, supplies, food and physical or emotional wellness.
HEERF availability
The availability forms from students’ financial need. However, both undergraduate and graduate students have access to this grant. Students that qualify will be informed via email. Depending on the Financial Aid Office’s Fall enrollment and FAFSA information, the amount varies from $200 to $3,151. However, the grant is still available to students without a FAFSA.
Further resources
Distribution will commence in November 2021, done through Direct Deposit on Merlin or by check. Any outstanding amount on a student’s account returns to the student.
Further information for students at NCC for the HEERF grants FAQ can be found on NCC’s website. Also, students can contact the Office of Financial Aid for personal assistance. Students can visit the Department of Education for HEERF grants’ updates.
