The University of Pittsburgh has received its Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) funding from the U.S. Department of Education in the amount of $30.6 million. Of this, the University elected to provide half—or $15.3 million—as direct support to students across all five campuses.
Pitt will distribute this funding directly to approximately 15,200 graduate and undergraduate students who, as of Feb. 18, 2021, had a 2020-21 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); demonstrated financial need; and had a federal student aid disbursement for spring 2021. Eligible students will receive a grant of $600 or $1,050 depending on their financial need based on FAFSA information.
Read more about what Pitt students can expect from the CRRSAA.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many students will receive CRRSAA grants, and how much will they receive?
- Approximately 15,200 students—on all five Pitt campuses—are receiving $600 or $1,050 depending on their situation. Students will be notified by email to their campus email addresses and the award amount will appear in PittPAY on the Account Activity tab for spring 2021.
- How quickly can students receive their CRRSAA grant funds?
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Students who have signed up for PIttPAY eRefunds will receive the money directly in the bank account they have designated on the eRefunds tab within 2-3 business days. Students who have not registered for PittPAY eRefunds will receive a check at their home address on record in the PeopleSoft Student Center within 10-14 days.
- What about students who received CARES Act grants due to loss of University jobs or who lost funding during the summer of 2020? Are they eligible for CRRSAA grants?
- Last year, the University worked to support students whose 2020 summer stipend was impacted, who lost expected wages when food service was curtailed or lost meal plan access during the 2020 spring term. This support included CARES Act and Pitt CARES grants. While qualifying for a CARES grant under these criteria does not qualify students for a CRRSAA grant, these students may fall into one of the above categories. The University will continue to monitor for impacts of COVID-19 on future student funding.
- What about students who were not eligible for financial aid previously, but due to COVID-related job losses now qualify for aid?
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Students whose financial situation has changed should apply for aid for the future. Students can reach out to a financial aid counselor to learn more about the application process. These students are eligible to apply for other funding, described in the FAQ below.
- Is other financial support available to students at this time?
- Pitt is supporting students in need of financial aid relief in other ways. All students, regardless of CRRSAA grant eligibility, are able to apply for emergency assistance.
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