HEERF I

Federal Student Emergency Fund
 

Massachusetts Maritime Academy signed and returned a Certification Agreement with the Department of Education and received $1,242,689 from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) as part of the Federal CARES Act.  One half of this emergency grant from the Federal Government is to provide assistance to students who experienced unexpected financial hardship caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the need to move from an on campus classroom environment to an on-line learning environment.

This funding is not intended to replace or supplement existing financial aid, and was not intended to be used to pay a student’s Academy bill. It was meant to assist with out-of-pocket expenses related to the move to on-line learning. Decisions regarding amount and disbursement of funds were made on a case-by-case basis.

MMA identified a total of 1256 students who qualified for the grant and sent emails to these students, inviting them to submit a request for emergency funds.

To be eligible for consideration, a student must:

  • Have a financial hardship directly related to moving to an on-line learning format
  • Be currently enrolled and attending classes in a degree program at the Academy
  • Be eligible for Title IV financial aid
    • Filed a 2019-2020 or 2020 - 2021 FAFSA
    • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
    • Be registered with the Selective Service (if male, over 18 years of age)
    • Not be in default on any prior educational loans and not owe a refund on an overpayment of any federal grant
    • Have a high school diploma or GED
    • Meet the standards of the MMA Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
    • Not have any convictions for the sale or possession of illegal drugs while receiving federal financial aid

How to Apply for HEERF Emergency Grant

Funds are no longer available for this grant

Students should send an email to ckedski@maritime.edu, outlining what their financial hardship(s) is as well as the dollar amount of each item listed. Funding will be given on a first come, first served basis. Students will be notified of a decision via their MMA email account on a rolling basis, typically within 7 - 10 days from the time the request is submitted. MMA reserves the right to award block grants to students. Students are encouraged to set up the Direct Deposit eRefund information in the Student Finance section of the Self Service Portal to receive funds in the quickest way possible. Questions about this emergency grant can be directed to Ms. Kedski at 508-830-5042 or ckedski@maritime.edu.