Introduction

On March 11, 2021, the President of the United States signed the American Rescue Plan Act – Public Law 117-2, which provides additional emergency relief funds to organizations and individuals affected by the coronavirus pandemic. This report provides details on the third award The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) received under the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), for Emergency Financial Assistance Grants to students.

Part I - Acknowledgement of Funding and Certification

The University of Texas at El Paso acknowledges that it received the grant award notification on May 26, 2021. In keeping with the terms of the certification and agreement, will use at least an amount equal to 50% of the funds received through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), to provide Emergency Financial Assistance Grants to students.

Part II - Data

* The total amount of Federal funds received for HEERF III Emergency Assistance Grants has been depleted.

Part III - Methods Used to Determine Which Students Receive Aid and How Much

The University of Texas at El Paso, in accordance with federal guidelines, established a plan to promptly and equitably assist students with the greatest need through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF III) Assistance Grant. Students who are identified as eligible and who have documented financial need are notified via email, with priority given to students with the highest level of need as per the Expected Family Contribution, resulting from the completion of a 2021-2022 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

An electronic application allows eligible students to accept the award by certifying the student has financial need and the student’s intention to use the grant in accordance with the allowable uses outlined in the American Rescue Plan Act and guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Education. This application also gives students the opportunity to authorize The University of Texas at El Paso to apply the grant to the student’s current outstanding balance or decline the authorization and receive the grant as a direct payment.

Part IV - Instructions

Instructions on completing the HEERF III Emergency Assistance Grant application and guidance regarding student eligibility were provided by The University of Texas at El Paso to eligible students through official email notifications and on the HEERF III Emergency Assistance Grant application.

Students needing additional directions or instructions are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Financial Aid at 915-747-5204 for assistance.