Grambling State University students who need financial assistance for expenses incurred during COVID-19 response could be eligible for a student grant.
Students who have incurred emergency expenses due to COVID-19 for example, cost of attendance expenses like food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, childcare, and others may qualify for a federal American Rescue Plan Grant which will provide emergency relief funding.
Only students who meet pre-qualification to apply for ARP grant assistance will find the application in BannerWeb. Students who have financial hardship because of the COVID-19 pandemic and are a U.S. Citizen or eligible non-citizens are eligible to participate. This includes students who are enrolled exclusively in online programs or classes.
Can Undocumented Students and International Students Receive Funds Under the ARP? Yes. Under the Department of Education's new guidance, undocumented students, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students, and international students are eligible for the grants to students.
Applications for ARP grants will be available starting March 10 at 12 am. Eligible students should sign in to BannerWeb to complete an application by March 17.
Awarding of funds is made based on financial need. Financial need is measured by the student’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC), which is on the student’s FAFSA information. Full-Time and Part-Time Undergraduates and Graduates with the lowest EFC will be eligible for the largest award.
Students who do not meet the submission date will have their grant applications considered only if funding is available. Students who apply before the deadline will receive funding first. Limited amount of funds is available.
Students are to check their school email for results or requests for additional information after their application has been submitted. The funds that are awarded will be posted on the student’s account and refunded in the form of a direct payment to the student. Awarded funds will be posted on the student’s account and disbursed in the form of a direct payment to the student, either in direct deposit or mailed check. It is recommended that students submit a direct deposit authorization form to ensure funds will be readily accessible for needed expenses.
Senior Eryn Fant believes the grant is a positive for students. “There are students who are still struggling from COVID, and this can really help them. You never know who’s out there struggling. This is truly a blessing.” Fant said.
Junior Vanderbilt Thompson is excited about the ARP grant. “I am happy about it; this is a tremendous help for me, and students like me.” Thompson said.
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) is federal legislation signed by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021. The ARP appropriated approximately $39.6 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) and represents the third stream of funding appropriated for HEERF to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. The purpose of ARP funds is similar to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act, HEERF I), the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA, HEERF II), and the ARP represent HEERF III. This new law provides financial support to individuals and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. One part of this federal program allocates money to GSU, and a portion of that allocation can be awarded directly to students who are experiencing financial expenses due to the coronavirus.
