The HEERF III application is closed as of March 28, 2022.
The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III) was authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and signed into law on March 11, 2021. An allocation has been provided to our institution for awarding financial aid grants to students. These funds may be used for any component of a student’s cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus, such as tuition, food, housing, health care (including mental health care) or childcare. Grant amounts at the University of Mississippi will typically not exceed $3,000 per person. Eligibility is not guaranteed.
FAQs
Who is eligible to receive funds under the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III)?
The following categories of students are eligible:
- U.S. citizens and permanent residents – Must have a 2021-22 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on file, with priority given to those with an EFC (Expected Family Contribution) of $20,000 or less. The largest awards will be provided to students with the greatest financial need (including those who receive Federal Pell Grants). Students can still complete the FAFSA to be considered, but it is recommended that they act quickly and remember to add UM’s school code: 002440.
- International OR undocumented students – Must answer questions on the HEERF application related to their financial status, including whether it has changed recently, and how they demonstrate financial need (since a FAFSA cannot be filed). These applications will be reviewed by a committee. Students may be asked for further clarification of finances.
Students will be considered based on the following criteria:
- Degree-seeking status (both undergraduates and graduate/professional students can qualify)
- Enrolled at the University of Mississippi at least half-time (a minimum of 6 credit hours for Undergraduate and Pharmacy students, 5 hours for all others including Graduate and Law students)
- Making satisfactory academic progress or on probation
- Financial need
- Any FAFSA eligibility flags have been resolved (including verification, if applicable)
Per the regulations, HEERF III Grants follow special awarding rules. The funds can be provided to qualifying students regardless of any other aid (such as loans or need-based scholarships) in the financial aid package.
What are eligible expenses for requesting an emergency financial aid grant through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III)?
These funds may be used for any component of the student’s cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus, such as tuition, food, housing, health care (including mental health care) or childcare. The primary awarding criterion is financial need. No supporting documents are required.
How much will I receive?
In keeping with guidance from the U.S. Department of Education, the University of Mississippi is prioritizing students with the greatest financial need. Award amounts will be based on student financial need and available funding. Grant amounts will typically not exceed $3000 per person. Eligibility is not guaranteed.
How will I be notified about my award?
Students will receive an email from Financial Aid if they either (1) do not qualify for HEERF or (2) have requirements to complete before they can be considered. Otherwise, students can check their Bursar bills within 5 days of application to see if an award has been disbursed to them.
How is financial need assessed for emergency financial aid grants to students under the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III)?
For U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents, the Estimated Family Contributions (as determined from information submitted on the FAFSA) is used for the assessment of a student’s financial need.
Since international and undocumented students cannot file a FAFSA, they must answer a question on the HEERF III application related to their financial status. Financial Aid and/or International Student and Scholar Services will review the information to determine the level of financial need. International students should explain how their financial situation has changed since they provided the “Affidavit of Financial Support” to support the issuance of their I-20 (F-1 status) or DS-2019 (J-1 status).
I am a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident who has not qualified for financial aid in the past based on my FAFSA. Should I apply for these funds?
Even if you were previously not eligible for other federal financial assistance, you may be eligible for a HEERF grant and should file a FAFSA as soon as possible.
Can I edit my form?
No edits are allowed to the form once submitted. Please ensure that all information is complete and accurate prior to submission.
Can I submit a second application for additional expenses at a later date?
Applications are limited to one per student for the Spring 2022 semester.
Are these funds taxable?
These funds may be reported on a 1098-T issued to the student at the end of the calendar year. You should consult your tax advisor regarding taxability of the funds.
Will I have to pay back the funds?
The funds are awarded as a grant which does not have to be repaid and is not considered a loan. Repayment would be required if false or misleading information is provided, resulting in emergency aid being issued under false or fraudulent pretenses.
How long will it take to receive funds?
Upon confirmation of eligibility and assessment of need, funds should be distributed within 5 to 10 business days of receipt of your application for students who have previously submitted a FAFSA. To expedite receipt of your funds, ensure your Direct Deposit details are updated in myOleMiss.
How can I update my banking information?
Login to myOleMiss and navigate to Student ==> Financials ==> Update Bank Account Information.
How will I receive my funds?
If awarded, and based on the option you select in the application, the University of Mississippi will either:
- Apply your HEERF III financial aid grant towards your Bursar account balance (funds in excess of that amount will be refunded to you) – OR
- The University of Mississippi will issue the financial aid grant directly to you. To receive your funds the quickest way, you should be signed up for Direct Deposit.
Dependent on your financial institution, it may take 24-48 hours for the funds to be reflected in your bank account once posted to your Bursar account.
If I file a FAFSA to be considered for HEERF III, how long will it take for my application to be processed after I submit a FAFSA?
The University should receive your information within 5 to 10 business days after your successful submission of the FAFSA. Your application will be reviewed once eligibility per the FAFSA is determined.
How can I get an answer to a question not covered by these FAQs?
For answers to questions not covered by these FAQs, please email umcares@olemiss.edu.