The portal to apply for emergency funds is again open for eligible students experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The application for emergency grants will remain open through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, April 11.

UCF received more than $25 million in relief funds through the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). A first round of awards was made in March, and due to additional availability of funds, we are opening another application window to provide aid directly to eligible students, beginning with those who have the greatest need. Students who already received $1,000 in HEERF funding will not be considered for additional funding at this time and should not complete a second application.

The emergency aid can help with costs suffered due to the coronavirus, a student’s cost of attendance — such as tuition, fees, housing, books and other supplies — as well as food, healthcare or child care needs. Undergraduate, graduate, M.D., UCF Online, and most non-degree seeking students who meet eligibility requirements can receive the funds.

Here is what you need to know:

  • To be eligible, you must have submitted an error-free 2020-2021 FAFSA. If you haven’t submitted a FAFSA, it’s not too late — fill out the form here before applying for HEERF aid.
  • Most non-degree seeking students are now eligible. Students enrolled in Continuing Education non-degree programs and Nursing Concurrent students are ineligible.
  • Due to federal guidelines, students must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens to qualify.
  • The maximum HEERF award is $1,000. Students who already received the maximum $1,000 HEERF award in March will not receive an additional award.
  • Pell-eligible students who have not received CARES or HEERF funding will be prioritized. Non-Pell eligible students who did not receive CARES or HEERF funding will be the next priority group, followed by students who did not receive funding from the first HEERF round and received less than the maximum CARES award. Awards will be made based on additional criteria until the funds are exhausted.
  • Funds will be awarded in late April. Log onto myUCF and make sure you are signed up for Direct Deposit. This is the fastest way to receive the funds after they are awarded.
  • HEERF grants do not need to be repaid.

For questions about HEERF awards, please review this detailed FAQ. Students should direct questions regarding HEERF funding and eligibility requirements to CARESAct@ucf.edu.

Armor Up, Knights!