The document provides a detailed overview of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) as established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) of 2021, managed by the Office of Postsecondary Education. With a $40 billion investment, ARP represents one of the largest single allocations to higher education, aiming to address the broad adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students and institutions, particularly those serving under-resourced communities. Key objectives include mitigating pandemic impacts on student attainment, supporting basic needs, and bolstering staffing and educational programs, with explicit allocations for community colleges, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs), and other minority-serving institutions.
The document emphasizes prioritizing students with exceptional financial need, broad eligibility (regardless of citizenship), and transparent processes in distributing emergency financial aid, while prohibiting preconditions such as academic performance or debt repayment. Institutions are encouraged to use funds not only for direct student grants but also for retention, re-engagement, mental health, technology access, and COVID-19 mitigation. Examples highlight diverse institutional practices in deploying resources for financial aid, academic support, and health and safety initiatives. Oversight measures, such as quarterly reporting and auditing requirements, are outlined to ensure transparency and accountability. The document also provides extensive resources and contact information to assist institutions in complying with guidance and effectively managing ARP-funded activities.
