LSUA CRRSA Act: Frequently Asked Questions

As a result of the federal Coronavirus Response, Relief, and Supplemental Appropriations Act (“CRRSA Act”) that was recently signed into law, institutions of higher education, including LSUA, will be receiving funds that are to be granted to students who may have experienced a financial hardship due to the Coronavirus pandemic.  The CRRSA is similar to the CARES act that was established last spring; but with a few key differences.  

Degree seeking students enrolled in a traditional or 100% online program during the spring semester (includes SpringO1 and SpringO2).

At this time, non-degree seeking students, visiting students, dual enrollment students and DACA/International students are not eligible.

Each eligible student will receive a base award of $350.00.  Those students who receive federal Pell grants will receive an additional amount that is based on credit hours and the amount of total Pell received.  The maximum total award is $850.00

Each institution received a total amount of funding based on several factors determined by the Department of Education.  Each institution is then subsequently responsible for determining individual award amounts for their students.  LSUA’s formula is based on the eligibility requirements outlined above coupled with the total amount of federal aid that each student receives.

Yes, the CRRSA Act includes students enrolled in 100% online degree programs.

LSUA will begin disbursing awards on April 3, 2021.  It may take up to three weeks to receive your award.

No. These are emergency grant funds awarded by the federal Department of Education. These dollars are directly awarded to each student and will not have to be paid back.

Yes. However, unlike CARES awards, CRRSAA funds can be used to pay an outstanding debt.  If you owe LSUA, you will receive the option of applying your CRRSAA award directly to your balance.  We highly encourage you to use your funds to cover any outstanding debt owed to the University.  Past-due balances are turned over to the Louisiana Attorney General's Office for collections at the end of each semester.  

Yes.  Unlike CARES funding, CRRSAA will be awarded to any eligible student, regardless of whether they submitted a FAFSA.  However, priority is given to those who have submitted a FAFSA and are Pell eligible.

No, it does not affect your eligibility, however, it will affect the total award amount.