ARP: American Rescue Plan (HEERF III) – Formerly known as the CARES Act

What is the CARES/Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund provided by the federal government?

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed by Congress and signed into law to provide economic relief from COVID-19. One section of the CARES Act established the Higher Education Emergency Relief fund and sent money to schools to use for emergency financial aid grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic. Currently, all funding is being provided under the American Rescue Plan (ARP – HEERF III).

When will CARES/Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds be available and how do I apply?

TCNJ has received this new round of funding, which it is making available to students on an expedited basis. Please fill out an application to begin the review process. Recipients will be notified of their status via their TCNJ email account.

Am I eligible for funds?

Funding is limited to students who have and been impacted by COVID-19 in the following ways: student and/or spouse loss or reduction of employment (i.e., layoff/furlough or job loss), parental loss or reduction of employment (i.e., layoff/furlough or job loss), or other unexpected circumstances.

Can I make changes to the application form after it has been submitted?

Unfortunately, no. Once an application is submitted it becomes final and will be processed accordingly. No appeals will be accepted.

What login credentials do I need to access the application form?

The application is only available to users with an @tcnj.edu email domain. Students can access the application form with their TCNJ login and password.

I am an international student and not a citizen of the United States. Am I eligible for a grant?

Yes, you may apply for consideration.

Are DACA students eligible to receive a grant?

Yes, you may apply for consideration.

When can students apply for CARES Act funds?

Eligible students may apply online beginning June 21, 2021 until all funds are exhausted.

What are the types of expenses covered by funding?

Eligible expenses for CARES Act funding include, but are not necessarily limited to, medical, food, housing, utilities, technology expenses, and other unanticipated expenses included in the student’s cost of attendance.

How much funding will I get?

Award amounts vary by student and are unique to each student’s circumstances. The College is committed to distributing funds it has received to as many eligible students in need as quickly as possible until those funds are exhausted.

How long before I know if I am awarded?

We anticipate a large volume of applications and will work to process submissions as quickly as possible. Our goal is to provide funding decisions as soon as possible.

What documentation am I required to submit for the application?

Only the completed application is required. The college reserves the right to request supporting documentation to substantiate statements made in the application.

How will I find out if I have been awarded funding?

Emails will be sent from PAWS to each student when funds are issued.

How will I receive the funding if my request is approved?

Checks/direct deposits will be processed within 3 weeks from receipt of the application.

Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your funding. Designate your bank account in PAWS by following the instructions below:

1. Visit the TCNJ Today homepage
2. Click on PAWS
3. In Self Service, click on Student Center
4. Click on Refund Direct Deposit link located in the Finances section and follow the instructions

If you are awarded funds, it will take approximately 24-48 business hours from your notification date for the funds to be deposited into your bank account. Some banks make take longer to process payments.

If you are not able to set up a direct deposit account, you will be mailed a paper check to the local mailing address on record with the college. Be advised that this method can take between 1-2 weeks.