May 1, 2020
CARES Act funding distribution available
Colleagues,
Kansas State University will distribute $6,343,277 in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act funding among qualified students experiencing financial hardships because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The disbursement, from the U.S. Department of Education as part of the CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, prioritizes reaching as many students as possible with the greatest demonstrated need. The Office of Student Financial Assistance will use data from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, to determine a student's eligibility. Students who are eligible to file a FAFSA, but have not yet filed for 2019-20, may still do so at studentaid.gov.
Under the U.S. Department of Education rules for the program, we may award these funds to enrolled undergraduate, graduate and professional students pursuing degree programs at K-State. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education restricts international students, undocumented students, new students or students enrolled in distance-only degree programs from receiving these funds. For students from any of these groups, there are other types of emergency aid available.
In alignment with the Department of Education guidance, universities must prioritize students with the greatest need. Grant amounts will vary based on the COVID-19 expenses incurred and the students' expected family contribution, or EFC. We cannot guarantee that all applications submitted will receive funding.
K-State will distribute funding through a short online application. These funds are meant to help students pay expenses for technology, health care, childcare, course materials, rent, food, moving or other expenses incurred the spring 2020 semester, as required by the federal act.
We know the hardships presented by this crisis continue to be felt deeply by many of you and your families, as well as our students. Thank you for your commitment to students’ well-being and your efforts to help them navigate this pandemic so they can continue to pursue their goals at K-State.
Together, we are K-State strong!
Karen Goos
Vice provost for enrollment management