CARES Act Funds for COVID-related Expenses

Eligible students can now apply for emergency relief funds to cover expenses resulting from disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The U.S. government provided this funding through the CARES Act to Dominican University to distribute directly to students.

Here’s what you need to know:

Am I eligible?

The federal government has limited the eligibility of CARES Act emergency financial aid grant funding to students who are or could be eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA). Dominican University uses the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine if a student meets the eligibility requirements.

The criteria to participate in programs under Section 484 of the HEA include but are not limited to:

  • U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen
  • A valid Social Security Number
  • Registration with Selective Service (male students)
  • A high school diploma, GED, or completion of high school in an approved home-school setting

Students enrolled in fully online programs as of March 13, 2020, are not eligible.

You must be currently enrolled

As we wait for further instruction from the Department of Education, only currently enrolled students, defined as those returning in the summer or fall, are eligible to apply at this time. As we learn more, we will be sure to update you.

Where do I apply?

The CARES Act Application for Emergency Financial Aid Grant funding has closed. The university is reviewing guidance from the Department of Education on the eligibility of students who were enrolled in the spring term to receive this funding. Please watch this page for future updates on student eligibility and disbursement of additional funding to student.

What expenses are covered?

Expenses directly related to the disruption of your education due to COVID-19. Examples: had to buy a new computer because of the move to online learning, or had to pay shipping costs to move items from residence halls. Other categories include, but are not limited to:

  • Food
  • Housing
  • Course materials
  • Technology
  • Health care
  • Child care
How will I receive the funds?

Once approved, an echeck will be processed on the next Thursday and sent to your DU email address. This electronic check can be deposited immediately into your bank account. For those without a DU email address, paper checks will be mailed to the permanent address on file.

Note that funds are required to be disbursed directly to students. The university cannot hold them to cover an outstanding balance, even if requested by the student.

What if I am not eligible?

Students ineligible for CARES Act funding can still appeal for institutional financial assistance by completing this separate application.

Questions? Contact CaresAct@dom.edu.