Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Information:
The Cares Act is a federal legislation which provides a variety of financial support to individuals and businesses affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. A section of this federal program allocates money to Arkansas State University, and a portion of that allocation can be awarded to students experiencing financial expenses due to Covid-19.
A-State is an institution that provides both online and traditional campus education, students that were enrolled exclusively in an online program on 03/13/2020, are not eligible for emergency financial aid grant. The President’s Proclamation indicated that the formula used by Congress excluded students who were enrolled in distance education courses. The grant to students are for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to Covid-19. We are continuing to monitor any guidelines given from the Department of Education. We understand that the situation for many is difficult and wish to offer our empathy and support during this time.
Please note: Students are not considered for financial aid until they have applied and been accepted into Arkansas State University. Once admitted and a completed FAFSA application has been received by our school for the current school year, student’s eligibility will be processed and determined.
What is Federal Student Aid?
Federal student aid comes from the federal government-specifically, the U.S. Department of Education. It’s money that helps a student pay for education expenses while at college. To apply for federal student aid, you must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by going to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
FAFSA Deadlines:
The FAFSA becomes available on October 1, each year.
The FAFSA will close on June 30, for the current school year.
What’s Next?
Monitor your mycampus student portal! This will allow you to monitor your financial aid status, check & complete your checklist, and view/accept your financial aid award. If you are selected for verification, you must provide the requested information to the Office of Financial Aid. This process can take up to two weeks depending on when you get additional required documents submitted, if applicable.
Remember! Monitor your A-State email account for further instructions from the A-State Financial Aid Office.
Disbursement of Financial Aid:
Once your financial aid has been accepted and all follow up requirements have been completed, your aid will be disbursed to your student account balance after the 11th day of class in the Fall and Spring semesters. During the Summer semesters, disbursement occurs after the 5th day of class. If you are expecting a refund, this refund will be processed by the Treasurer’s Office once disbursement has occurred.
