College of DuPage outlines CARES Act Fund disbursements for students

College of DuPage students meeting eligibility criteria for federal financial aid and who were enrolled in spring courses that transitioned to remote learning now have access to $4.55 million through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

The distribution of emergency aid grants began the week of May 25 and continues until all funds have been disbursed. Eligible students include those who completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Those who began a FAFSA, but did not complete the application process should continue those steps and start their 2020-2021 FAFSA form. They may still qualify for CARES Act funding and will be required to complete an online application that will be available in June.

"We are grateful to have the opportunity to offer this emergency relief to our students during this unprecedented time," said College of DuPage President Dr. Brian Caputo. "During the last several months, our students have been faced with tremendous challenges as they navigated the transition to online learning, often while struggling to provide for themselves and their families amid growing unemployment."

The CARES Act funding is the latest aid made available to College of DuPage students. Earlier this spring, the COD Foundation launched the COVID-19 Emergency Student Relief Fund, which offers up to $500 to qualifying students adversely impacted by the pandemic. More than $100,000 has been raised. More on the fund

In addition to the CARES Act direct student assistance, the college received an additional $4.55 million to assist with institutional costs associated with significant changes to the delivery of instruction. Leaders currently are determining how the additional funds will be spent, said Board of Trustees Chairman Frank Napolitano.

"Our immediate focus must be the well-being of our students. Providing them this relief funding is top of mind," he said. "The college has long been a good financial steward. The success of our students is paramount to the mission and vision of College of DuPage, and this guides our decision regarding the additional funds."

More on CARES Act funding at College of DuPage at www.cod.edu/coronavirus/cares-act.aspx.