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WIU offers financial aid appeals, additional financial aid
October 5, 2021
MACOMB / MOLINE, IL – COVID-19 has created challenges for many students and their families across the country, and Western Illinois University is working to alleviate financial stress affecting its students in the wake of the pandemic .
According to WIU Financial Aid Director Bobbi Smith, the WIU Financial Aid Office has set up a financial circumstance appeal for a financial aid eligibility review using the income. forecast in 2021 compared to earned income in 2019.
“If students and their families have been financially impacted by the pandemic, we encourage our students to complete asemergency call “said Smith.
The following appeal forms are available: parent / student income appeal; loss of benefits; tuition fees paid; and medical / dental expenses not covered by insurance.
Smith added that if families have been affected by other catastrophic events, such as a fire, flood or other natural disaster, or if funds have been taken from a retirement account, students / parents can submit a personal declaration and any supporting documents for financial assistance to take this into account. one-time expenses / funds. Appeals and / or statements of special circumstances can be submitted by email to [email protected].
In March 2021, President Biden signed the US bailout authorizing the Higher Education Emergency Aid Fund (HEERF III) and allocating $ 39.6 billion to support higher education institutes. to serve students and ensure continued learning despite COVID-19. WIU will receive $ 22 million, of which $ 11 million is to be paid directly to students.
“WIU will allocate these funds between the fall semester 2021 and the spring semester 2022 to students enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours who pursue a degree through WIU and meet or have successfully appealed for satisfactory academic progress.” , explained Smith.
Students will be automatically rewarded based on the conditions described above. Priority distribution of funds will be given to students with high needs, as determined by FAFSA and their Expected Family Contribution (EFC). No request is required to apply for HEERF funds, but students must complete the Emergency Assistance Authorization Form through STARS to determine if the funds granted will be applied to student fees or refunded to the student. .
In addition to the Emergency Assistance Authorization Form, students are encouraged to set up direct deposit to ensure the timely processing of any reimbursements that may result in overpayment of fees.
In addition to these WIU-specific processes, the federal government has implemented several programs for the benefit of students enrolled in higher education, including the Emergency broadband service , an FCC program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic, and expanded SNAP eligibility.
Questions regarding any of these COVID benefits can be directed to the Financial Aid Office at (309) 298-2446 or [email protected].
Posted by: WIU News ([email protected])
University Relations Office
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