CARES Act Grant Information for Students

To: Students

From: Patrick K. Day, Vice President of Student Affairs

Dear SJSU Students, 

Many students are experiencing financial concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing economy.  As President Papazian shared last week, San José State University received funding through the federal government’s Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide one-time grants to students who are experiencing COVID-19-related financial hardship.

Eligibility Criteria for CARES Act Grants

Students who may be eligible to receive CARES Act grants include those who: 

  • Filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form prior to March 13, 2020,
  • Are currently enrolled and matriculated (degree-seeking) SJSU undergraduate and graduate students,
  • Were enrolled in a primarily on-campus degree program,
  • Are part-time or full-time students,
  • Are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and
  • Are experiencing COVID-19-related financial hardship.

Automatic Grants

To prioritize rapid support of students in need, SJSU will deliver automatic initial grants (no request required) to students who meet the eligibility criteria and have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $10,000 or lower, as calculated through the FAFSA process. Grant funds will be delivered through direct deposit or by mail, pending student confirmation of mailing address. Students with the lowest EFCs will receive the highest initial grant awards. 

Other Assistance by Request

Other students who are experiencing severe COVID-19-related educational disruptions, but do not qualify for an automatic grant, can pursue assistance in one of the following ways.

  • Students who meet the eligibility criteria for CARES Act funds, but have an EFC above $10,000 are encouraged to fill out the SJSU CARES Act Grant Request by Tuesday, May 5.
  • Students who do not meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact SJSU Cares for assistance from other support resources.

More details on grant eligibility and on how to find your EFC appear on the CARES Act SJSU Grant web page.

We anticipate notifying awarded students and distributing all grant awards before the end of the spring 2020 semester.  Know that as you continue to strive towards your academic and career goals amid the recent changes, SJSU remains committed to helping you stay on the path to success.

Sincerely,

Patrick K. Day
Vice President of Student Affairs