More financial relief is on the way for students in higher education — including those attending Western Nevada College — for the fall semester. WNC students could receive up to $1,800 through the U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III, which was authorized by the American Rescue Plan. The American Rescue Plan became a federal law in March and is providing more than $39 billion to support higher education institutions serve students during the current health pandemic. These federal funds are designed to go directly to students. Students who have submitted a 2021-22 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and are enrolled in fall 2021 will automatically be considered for funding. The college is prioritizing awards to students who demonstrate exceptional need based on their Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and fall 2021 enrollment level. The college continues to encourage all students to submit a 2021-22 FAFSA as soon as possible, as there are a variety of funding sources available to help students. The FAFSA is available at studentaid.gov/fafsa. Students who are not automatically awarded emergency relief funds are encouraged to submit a HEERF III Emergency Grant Application at https://www.wnc.edu/financial. Students can use this application to request additional HEERF funds for fall 2021. Students can also use the application to request assistance with past due balances incurred during the pandemic. Students are encouraged to apply soon as funds are limited. “WNC is dedicated to getting these funds in the hands of students,” according to JW Lazzari, WNC director of Financial Assistance. “These funds are aimed to help students with any emergency costs or any components of the cost of attendance, including books, supplies, room and board, transportation, childcare and healthcare (including mental health costs).” WNC’s Financial Assistance Office is available to answer questions related to HEERF III awards and the application process. Contact the office at finaid1@wnc.edu or 775-445-3264.
