MEMBER ADVISORY

March 19, 2021

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is providing information released by the U.S. Department of Education for higher education institutions to provide more clarity around the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.

The guidance expands flexibilities for student and institutions, empowers institutions to discharge student debt, encouraging students to reconsider their education, and offers guidance that will help the most vulnerable students, among other provisions.

HACU commends the Department for using the guidance to provide direction for the use of emergency funds for refugees and those granted asylum.

One remaining issue, however, that is a priority for HACU and its member institutions is the use of HEERF for undocumented and international students. We are hopeful that the Administration will be able to provide guidance to campuses for the use of HEERF for these students.

MSI Appropriations tables for the American Rescue Plan are expected around April 1, though that is subject to change. HACU will share with membership more details as they are made available.

The full release and  guidance can be found by clicking here. After reviewing the website, if you have questions on the proper use and distribution of funds, please email HEERF@ed.gov.

HACU is grateful to the U.S. Department of Education for issuing this guidance and urges the Administration to release these funds as quickly as possible. HACU will continue to advocate for additional COVID-19 relief funding in future relief packages.

HACU Member Advisories are a service of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)