COVID-19

The impacts of COVID-19 have been far reaching and we understand that there are many questions surrounding how COVID-19 will impact your education and financial aid. If you have further questions or concerns, please reach out to us at finaid@kzoo.edu.

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American Rescue Plan (ARP)/HEERF III FAQs

Updated: June 7, 2021, September 30, 2021, January 10, 2022

What is the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act Federal COVID-19 Grant?

The Higher Education Emergency Fund III (HEERF III) is authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) to allocate nearly $40 billion.  Because this is the third emergency aid given to the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, it’s also called HEERF III. Kalamazoo College received a total of $3,025,328 in emergency aid of which at least $1,512,664 must go directly to students as emergency grants.

When will ARP/HEERF III funds be available?

Kalamazoo College received American Rescue Plan/HEERF III funds on May 15, 2021. 

Who is eligible for the ARP/HEERF III Grant?

The Financial Aid Office used the following criteria to determine eligibility:

  • Financial Need
  • Any degree-seeking individual who was enrolled at any time during Spring term 2021, including international, undocumented students and DACA recipients
Who received the ARP/HEERF III Grant?

The Financial Aid Office is required to prioritize students with financial need.  Using verified financial information, emergency grant amounts were paid to students with the lowest ability to pay. 

How do I know if I am getting an ARP/HEERF III Grant?

On June 7, the Financial Aid Office sent an email to eligible recipients alerting them of the emergency grant.  On Hornet HQ in the 2020-21 Financial Aid portal, payments show as “Federal COVID 19 Relief Grant” in Spring Term.  The Business Office is processing payments.  Paper checks will be mailed to the permanent address on file unless direct deposit has already been arranged.  Processing will take 2 weeks.

How can I use the ARP/HEERF III Grant?

Under the ARP, these grants are for any of the student’s cost of attending school or emergency costs that arise due to Coronavirus.  This money can also be used towards tuition bills. 

Why didn’t I receive an ARP/HEERF III Grant?

In general, students who received a grant met the criteria of greatest financial need. We know that many families’ income is in flux. If you are concerned about your financial situation, please reach out to the Financial Aid Office so that we may help.

Will there be more ARP/HEERF III funds for 2021-22?

We thought it was most important to meet the immediate needs of students and award nearly $1,490,000 as Spring Term emergency aid grants.  Approximately 835 students received grants.  We reserved a portion of the funds for families who have experienced an income reduction or received a one-time payment which artificially inflated their 2020 taxes.  If you experienced either of these, please contact the Financial Aid Office so we can explore if a professional judgment review is appropriate.