July 20, 2021

Susquehanna University this week distributed one-time, emergency student aid grants through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

At Susquehanna, 2,247 students – 100% of SU’s total full-time undergraduate enrollment during the 2020-21 academic year – received student grants from the ARP totaling $2,850,639. Disbursement amounts (where applicable) were based on each student’s 20-21 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and range from $500 to $3,000. Enrolled students who did not complete a FAFSA or students who were ineligible to complete the FAFSA also received an emergency grant.

These grant funds are direct payments to students for emergency costs (such as tuition, food, housing, course materials, technology, health care and childcare) that arose due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Eligible students did not have to take any action to receive the funds. Students who opted to receive electronic refunds will receive the grants electronically this week. All other students will receive a check mailed to their address on file.

“Susquehanna is a student-centric institution. We remain committed to our students now and in the future,” said University President Jonathan Green. “We are grateful for the partnership with the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Congress over the last year to provide these emergency grants to our students during these unique times.”

The ARP was authorized by Congress and signed by the president into law on March 11, 2021. The statute created two separate formula-based grants for colleges and universities: one portion for the direct aid to students and the other focused on supporting institutional costs associated with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Over the last year, the university refunded approximately $8.5 million to its students for unused, prorated housing and meal plan payments. The university continues to allow student employees who could perform their jobs remotely to continue working, which provided them continued financial support and professional experiences. Susquehanna has also loaned laptops and provided other technology to support students unable to access technology for remote learning.

The university has also created a Student Care Fund, supported by private donations, to support a broader range of student needs.