UTRGV will begin distributing cash grants to current students, including internationals next semester as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act 2021.
The announcement was made to students Thurs. Nov. 4, according to the Associate Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Griselda Castilla.
When asked about eligibility requirements she said,
“All students are eligible for the cash grants … The rules were very strict, when we first started with the cash grants of course, these funds come from the federal government. So, there was a couple of student populations that were not eligible. But at this point, they’ve really removed those rules so that all students, that are here, at with us at an institution of higher education, including all of our students here at UTRGV, are able to receive some assistance from this money. So, our international students, our undergraduate, graduate, and international students will all be able to receive assistance from our cash grants.”
Eligible students could receive up to $850, according to Castilla.
English freshman Reneta Perez described the moment when she told her parents about the financial incentive.
“I told them yesterday [her parents] after I got the email. I was just like, guys, I got a grant again, and they were like, ‘Oh my God, thank God,’” said Perez.
According to the Director of Student Services, Vanessa Maldonado, the Spring 2022 Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) Cash Grant is to help students alleviate the financial burdens of the pandemic.
“We’re really trying to help all students, because … One way or another, one form or fashion, whether you were enrolled in college, before or now, you’re still affected somehow. So, we’re really trying to help all students just in these past two years with these grants.”
Maldonado also said the grants vary depending on your Estimated Family Contribution (EFS), as determined by your FAFSA. However, for new incoming students, funds are distributed after Census Date.
If you are enrolled for at least one spring class and have direct deposit set up with the university, you could see the funds within 2-3 business days starting Jan. 24, according to Castilla.
This is Carla Landaverde for Vaquero Radio.
