The US Department of Education confirmed Relay GSE will receive federal relief as a result of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act allocates funds to support individuals and organizations affected by the pandemic and economic downturn. Emergency relief will be provided to eligible students impacted by COVID-19, including funds for food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care.
The US Department of Education announced it is limiting this funding to students who are eligible to receive federal financial aid and are enrolled in a program that met on-campus prior to the transition to online classes due to COVID-19. Under these guidelines, international students and students enrolled exclusively in an online program are not eligible to receive funding.
As of April 17, 2020 Relay GSE acknowledges that the institution signed and returned to the US Department of Education the “Certification Agreement.” Relay GSE intends to distribute the $370,221 emergency funds received to students directly identified as of the highest need. An estimated 3200 students have been identified as eligible to participate in Title IV programing and hence eligible for emergency funds.
As of May 13, 2020, no students have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant under the CARES Act.
Relay GSE has created an online application for students, faculty, and advisors to identify students most impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The form and grant availability are announced on the student Canvas portal. Applications must be completed by June 8, 2020. The Relay GSE Emergency CARES Act Committee will review in two rounds (June 1, 2020 - June 5, 2020; June 22, 2020 - June 26, 2020). And, the distribution of funds ranging from $200-$600 will occur the following week after committee review. The second round is for student appeals and students not reviewed during the first round of review.