USU Disburses $1.8 Million from CARES funds to Support Students

Utah State University has awarded more than $1.8 million in a third cycle of emergency grants to students who have experienced unanticipated expenses related to the disruption of campus operations because of COVID-19.

The emergency grants are made possible through an allocation from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to aid students. USU has already disbursed a total of $6.2 million to 9,930 students. Emergency grants were disbursed in May, and technology grants were made over the late summer and early fall semester.

“The pandemic has derailed many plans, but disruptions to education could have a huge impact on students’ future careers and financial stability,” said USU President Noelle E. Cockett. “This cycle of emergency grants is intended to get funds to Aggies who continue to face ongoing financial impacts so they can continue their education.”

The funds are being disbursed to students based on financial need indicated in their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Thousands of students will receive an email this week to let them know they have been selected for an automatic grant. These students will simply need to accept their grants and funds will be disbursed through check or direct deposit.

Students may receive a total of $400 in CARES Act grants for fall semester. Those students who have already received a $300 technology grant earlier in the semester may be able to receive up to $100 more.

Those students who either did not fill out a FAFSA or whose financial circumstances have changed since they did may apply for an emergency grant by visiting usu.edu/covid-19/cares.

The U.S. Department of Education has excluded international students, undocumented students, non-matriculated students, and students enrolled exclusively in online courses prior to March 13, 2020, from receiving CARES Act funds. These students may also apply through a separate application.

Students not eligible for a CARES Act grant may still apply to the Student Emergency Hardship Fund, which provides monetary awards, dining services cards, and connects students to needed on- and off-campus resources. These g[rant applications are reviewed weekly, and students are contacted within a few weeks of submitting their applications.