Federal Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF II) Available for Students

Dear Students,

Good news! As a result of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA) signed December 27, 2020, Saint Mary’s College has received $1.3 million in funding for students with “exceptional need” through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds II (HEERF II). These funds will be available to eligible students*, both undergraduate and graduate, starting March 16. 

Funds will be available for students who are “Pell Grant eligible” or have an EFC (Expected Family Contribution) under 10,000 determined by the 2020–2021 FAFSA application. The amount that students receive will be higher for those enrolled on a full-time versus part-time basis.

If your financial situation has significantly changed since completing the 2020–2021 FAFSA, you may file an appeal of your award with the Financial Aid Office. Even if you do not qualify for these federal grants, emergency financial aid from Saint Mary’s may be available. Please email finaid@stmarys-ca.edu to start the process.

For students who qualify, we will send instructions on how to receive the funds or, if you choose, use the award as a way to pay down a balance. 

*Eligible students must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at Saint Mary’s College on March 16, 2021; be currently enrolled in good academic standing, and meet all qualifications for federal financial aid.