CRRSA Act Information and FAQs
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act, the second federal COVID relief package, includes aid that is distributed directly to students by Robert Morris University. The university began providing assistance to students from CRRSA Act funds in March 2021. Students will be contacted directly regarding their eligibility and distribution amount.
What is the CRRSA Act, and how will it help students at RMU?
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act is the second round of federal COVID relief package passed by Congress and signed into law to provide economic relief from the Covid-19 pandemic. The CRRSA Act provided additional funding to the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), which provides money for colleges and universities -- including RMU -- which may be used for any component of a student’s cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus.
Will I qualify for funding under the federal CRRSA Act?
Undergraduate students who meet basic eligibility criteria for federal financial aid will be considered for these funds. Notifications will be sent shortly to each student who qualifies with the amount they were allocated. Money awarded will be paid directly to the student within 14 days of the funds posting to their student account.
Do I have to complete the FAFSA in order to receive initial distribution of CRRSA Act funding?
Yes, RMU will require that every student complete the 2020-21 FAFSA in order to determine the initial distribution that they will receive. Every student who qualifies for CRRSA Act funding will receive an award, so long as the FAFSA is completed. Additional funding is available to students who have not completed a FAFSA and will be communicated separately.
How much money will I receive?
The university will award initial CRRSA Act funding based on each student’s expected family contribution (EFC), which is the same formula used to determine all financial aid awards. The federal government has provided RMU a finite pool of money to distribute. The award amount will vary by enrollment status, but eligible full-time undergraduate students can expect to receive between $150 and $500. Eligible part-time students can also expect an award, and even many students who do not normally qualify for financial aid will receive a CRRSA Act award. Below is a breakdown of the awards for full time and part time enrolled students:
Awards for full-time enrolled students determined by EFC:
- EFC $0 - 5,700: $500 per student
- EFC $5,701-14,000: $300 per student
- EFC $14,001 and above: $150 per student
Awards for students enrolling less than full time determined by EFC:
- EFC $0 - 10,000: $150 per student
- EFC $10,001 +: $100 per student
What can I do if I have not completed a FAFSA or believe I am entitled to more CRRSA Act funds than RMU has initially awarded me?
RMU is eager to provide financial assistance to help you continue your education and to meet any other unforeseen needs. We will do our best to provide additional funding as quickly as possible.
Additionally, another federal stimulus bill was signed into law recently, which includes more money for college students. We will notify students of the availability of additional funds, and eligibility to receive them, as soon as possible.