CARES Act emergency funds

As part of the federal government’s Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the University has been approved for a one-time, limited allocation of funds designed to assist degree seeking students in need because of the COVID-19 pandemic and its disruption of campus operations.

Overview

Who is eligible?

All current degree-seeking students (graduate, undergraduate, medical) enrolled in Spring 2020 affected by the COVID-19 pandemic who have successfully completed a 2019-20 FAFSA (or are eligible to file a FAFSA) are eligible for CARES Act Funds.

How much funding is available?

Award amounts are from $200 to $800, depending on each student’s socioeconomic circumstances.

What types of expenses does the CARES Act emergency funding cover?

CARES Act funding will assist with expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, or health care).

CARES Act FAQ

• Do I need to complete a FAFSA to receive CARES Act funds?

  Yes, students must have a successfully completed FAFSA on file. Students who have not filed a FAFSA, and are in need of financial assistance, should immediately file a 2019-20 FAFSA.
• How do I know if I am eligible to file a FAFSA?

  The eligibility criteria to file a FAFSA, as outlined in Section 484 of the Higher Education Act (HEA), include but are not limited to the following:

  • U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen
  • Valid Social Security number
  • Registration with Selective Services, if male
  • High school diploma, GED, or completion of high school in an approved homeschool setting
• Can undocumented students and international students receive funds under the CARES Act?

  No, international and undocumented students are not eligible for CARES Act funding. However, emergency funds from other sources can be requested from the Dean of Students Office.
• I am enrolled in an online program; do I qualify for CARES Act funds?

  You are not eligible for CARES Act funds if you were enrolled exclusively in an online program on March 13, 2020. However, if you were enrolled in a combination of online and in-person classes, you are eligible.
• Are students enrolled in a non-degree or certificate program eligible for CARES Act funds?

  No, only students enrolled in a degree-seeking program are eligible.
• Do I need to be meeting satisfactory academic standards (SAP) to receive funds?

  Yes, to be eligible for CARES Act funding, you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards, which are established by the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office following Federal guidelines.
• I have an outstanding tuition/housing balance for the current semester; would these funds be applied to that balance?

  No, the funds will be sent directly to you.
• How long before I receive funds?

  Requests will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• How will I receive funds if my request is approved?

  Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your funds. If you don’t have direct deposit with the Cashiers Office, we encourage you to sign up in MyNEVADA. Otherwise, a check will be sent to the address on file in MyNEVADA.
• Can these funds affect other aid that I have already received?

  No, CARES Act Funds will not reduce your financial aid package.
• Are CARES Act Funds taxable and included on a 1098-T?

  It’s unclear at this time, but it appears that these grants may be legally exempt from 1098-T reporting and exempt from taxation altogether.
• I am having trouble making ends meet, who can I talk to about my overall financial situation?

  Nevada Money Mentors is a resource on campus that offers free financial coaching sessions to students. You can schedule an appointment to discuss your monthly spending, bill payments, credit, savings plans and more. Please schedule your appointment at Nevada Money Mentors.