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Apply for CARES Aid

Photos of the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act alos known as the CARES ACT. Photos are not of the actual bill but a simulation of the bill.
Apply for CARES Act Aid

  • La Roche University received approximately $1.2 million from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Of that $1.2 million, half of the money ($602,959) is earmarked for emergency financial aid grants for La Roche students. As of July 6, La Roche has distributed $306,475 in grants to 331 students. Starting July 24 the University will begin accepting applications and awarding emergency financial aid grants for the remaining available dollars, which total $296,484.

  • Frequently Asked Questions 

    Information is provided below explaining eligibility requirements. Please email LRUcares@laroche.edu with any questions related to eligibility, the application process or other matters related to the distribution of emergency financial aid grants under the CARES Act.

  • What students are eligible to receive emergency financial aid grants from the HEERF?
    Students who were enrolled during the spring 2020 or summer 2020 semester, and only students who are or could be eligible to participate in programs in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, may receive emergency financial aid grants. If a student has filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), then the student has demonstrated eligibility to participate in programs. Students who have not filed a FAFSA, but who are eligible to file a FAFSA, also may receive emergency financial aid grants. The Financial Aid office will review and verify all applications.
  • Is other emergency financial aid available to students who are not eligible to receive a grant from the HEERF?
    Students who are not eligible to receive a grant from the HEERF should apply to the Sister Candace Introcaso Student Emergency Fund by emailing elena.almendarez@laroche.edu or colleen.ruefle@laroche.edu and requesting an application.
  • How do I apply for an emergency financial aid grant from the HEERF?

    Students must complete and submit the online application at the top of this page for consideration of their grant request. Upon receipt of the application, eligibility to receive federal financial aid will be verified, and a committee appointed by the president will determine the grant award amount in compliance with the HEERF and available funds.

    Students are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible, and the distribution of grants will begin immediately. Since the amount of money that La Roche has been given to distribute to our students in the form of emergency aid is limited, we anticipate the number of requests will exceed the amount of money we have to award. In order to serve as many students as possible, grants will range from $250 to $1,400. The committee will consider the following criteria for each applicant when awarding grants:
    • Eligible students who did not receive an emergency financial aid grant in the first round will receive highest priority;
    • Pell eligible students with no Expected Family Contribution;
    • Students with a significant need related to COVID-19 disruptions, including food, housing and health care; and
    • Other students eligible to receive federal assistance also will be considered for emergency grants.
  • What can be covered by an emergency financial aid grant from the HEERF?
    The CARES Act states that the funds are to be used to provide emergency financial aid grants to students to pay for expenses incurred related to COVID-19 disruptions, including, food, housing, course materials and technology, and health care.
  • How long after applying until I know if I will receive an emergency financial aid grant from the HEERF? When will I receive the money?
    You will receive an email from LRUcares@laroche.edu within seven to 10 business days regarding the status of your grant application. Those who receive grants can expect to receive a check issued by La Roche University ordinarily within two weeks of being notified that their application has been accepted.
  • Can emergency financial aid grants from the HEERF be directly applied to my outstanding tuition balance?
    No, the CARES Act requires institutions to distribute the money directly to students, who may then choose to pay their outstanding balance with the University.
  • Will an emergency financial aid grant from the HEERF impact my financial aid award from La Roche?
    No, this award is a one-time grant provided directly to students and is not considered part of your financial aid package from La Roche.
  • Is an emergency student aid grant from the HEERF taxable?
    No, emergency financial aid grants under the CARES Act for unexpected expenses, unmet financial need, or expenses related to the disruption of campus operations on account of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as unexpected expenses for food, housing, course materials, technology, health care or childcare, are qualified disaster relief payments under section 139 of the Internal Revenue Code. This grant cannot be included in your gross income.
  • Who should I contact if I have questions about eligibility and/or the application process?
    Please email LRUcares@laroche.edu with any questions related to eligibility, the application process or other matters related to the distribution of emergency financial aid grants from the HEERF.