As part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the U.S. Department of Education recently authorized emergency funding to colleges and universities across the United States. Hampton University received CARES Act funding, under a certification and agreement with the Department of Education. 50% of the funding was earmarked for students who are eligible for Title IV federal financial aid, as defined by FAFSA.
The CARES Act and Department of Education’s guidance advised Hampton University to distribute $2.1 million in funds to the most in need and use Pell-eligibility as one measure of need. Hampton University awarded CARES Act funds to students based on the following structure:
- Each 2019-20 Title IV-eligible undergraduate, graduate and graduate professional/continuing education (CE) student enrolled in the Spring 2020 semester, including 2020 graduating seniors: $500
- Each 2019-20 Pell-eligible returning undergraduate, continuing education (CE) student enrolled in the Spring 2020 semester: Additional $405 (Total $905)
During our preliminary assessment of student eligibility, we determined that 3,315 students met the Title IV eligibility criteria set by the Department of Education, and 1,093 students met Federal Pell Grant eligibility.
Hampton University used the following metrics to determine student eligibility:
- Filed a FAFSA before the 2019-20 academic year;
- Enrolled in the Spring 2020 semester;
- Determined to be eligible for Title IV aid; and
- Determined to be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant.