Student Financial Assistance COVID-19 Resource Center and Consumer Information

In response to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the ĚěĚěłÔąĎ Financial Aid Office has put together this page of resources for prospective and current students of the NEIU community. Below you will find links to resources from Federal Student Aid and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Students and families of the NEIU community can also view updates at the University’s COVID-19 Response site, which includes a list of FAQ and answers.

Federal student aid

The U.S. Department of Education is actively monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak. If you’re concerned about your studies or loan repayment, we can help you understand what to do in certain circumstances. Information will be added for students, borrowers and parents to the on a regular basis.

• The recently enacted federal provides money to colleges and universities for emergency student financial aid grants. NEIU is working to release these funds directly to degree-seeking students based on enrollment as of the census date. The purpose of the money is to award emergency financial aid grants for expenses resulting from the disruption of on-campus operations caused by coronavirus. A Frequently Asked Questions page is available to address further details.
• The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) CARES funding: The table below provides the most current reporting information from the date the University received its allocation for emergency financial aid grants to students, institutional share, and relief assistance for Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).

• Federal Direct Loan borrowers enrolled less than half-time (6 credit hours) and in repayment may qualify for a deferment with zero interest accrual. Contact information for your loan servicer can be found at . The FSA ID is required for login.
• Federal Loan borrowers in default may qualify for a reprieve. Contact your loan servicer for additional information.
• Private Student Loan borrowers may qualify for a reprieve. Contact your private loan provider directly for additional information.
• If there is a dislocated worker status resulting from the outbreak extending beyond 10 weeks for you, your spouse or your parents, a can be submitted with the appropriate documentation for the circumstances.

Illinois student assistance commission (ISAC)

To slow the transmission of the virus and protect our community, all ISAC offices are currently closed to the general public. ISAC understands these are unprecedented times, and to continue with the administration of MAP grants to best serve Illinois students, a limited release is scheduled of 2020-2021 MAP award announcements in suspense status.

MAINTAINING STUDENT AID ELIGIBILITY

• Despite the change in instruction delivery method, your financial aid will not be affected if you remain enrolled. This includes your federal, state, and institutional grants, scholarships and loans. Students considering dropping classes or complete withdrawals for the remainder of the semester should keep in mind that this decision could impact future financial aid eligibility.
• Free eTextbook Option: As a service to students, Follett Bookstore partnered with and participating publishers to provide free e-books where available.
• We strongly recommend speaking with your advisor before you withdraw from a course.

GENERAL STUDENT FINANCIAL WELLNESS

• Northeastern students are resilient, resourceful and innovative. However, given the unprecedented circumstances presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, a  has been established.
• To accommodate the need for safety and reduced time within the pantry, submit request for food items to be pre-packaged by completing the  and note what day and time you wish to pick up the food.
• Find a food pantry near you: For students who do not live on or near campus and are in need of food assistance, the Greater Chicago Food Depository provides an up-to-date .
• We know that our students and alumni have busy schedules and may not always be able to attend a workshop at the time it is offered. In order to support students and their career goals and reach more students remotely, Career Development has added a that they can watch at times convenient to their schedules.
• Pell Grant recipients eligible for federal internet subsidy! The Emergency Broadband Benefit is an  to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, and virtual classrooms. Visit for more information and to apply.
• Be and earn a $500 scholarship at the end of the semester! Students earn badges by completing Financial Literacy modules within GradReady. The student who earns the most badges at the end of the semester will receive a $500 scholarship posted against their University student account.

Per Federal Guidelines, the following consumer information is listed below for all NEIU current and prospective students:

• Annual Security Report (Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures, Timely Warnings, and Crime Log)
• , (University Catalog)
• Discrimination and/or harassment grievance form
• Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program
• Equal Opportunity
• Exit Counseling for Student Loan Borrowers (Financial Aid office sends out letters to students within 30 days of graduation or who drop below half-time.)
• Fire Safety Report and Fire Log
•  and Job Placement for Graduate Students and Undergraduate Students
• Graduate Student Exit Survey
• Information for Crime Victims about Disciplinary Proceedings
• Method of financial assistance disbursements to student and frequency of disbursements: View on NEIUport the Financial Aid Awards Section and Award Acceptance and click Schedule for more information.
• , 
• Policies and Sanctions Regarding Copyright Infringement (Including Computer Use and File Sharing)
• (Including Self-Certification Form)
• , 
• ,
• Terms of any loan received, sample repayment schedule for sample loans and necessity for repaying loans: View the Financial Aid Awards Section and Award Acceptance on NEIUport for more information. Students should get an idea of how to pay back loans before applying. to learn about types of loans to apply for, repayment and much more.
• Title IX
•  (Resource Guide)

Mandatory Flat Fees Per Semester

U-PASS FEE: $155

Full-time undergraduate and full-time graduate students who are registered for at least one course on the Main Campus are issued a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) U-Pass. The U-Pass, which can be used anytime, anywhere for unlimited rides on CTA buses and trains. Full-time students who do not want the U-Pass can email u-pass@neiu.edu to receive a response with instructions. Part-time students who would like to opt in for the U-Pass for $155, can email u-pass@neiu.edu to receive an auto response with instructions. 

Questions about U-Pass can be directed to welcome-desk@neiu.edu or (773) 442-4290. Questions about U-Pass waivers or charges against student accounts can be directed to studentpaymentservices@neiu.edu. 

MISCELLANEOUS FEES

Mandatory General Fee Per Credit Hour

$85 (up to 16 credit hours)

The General Fee intends to enhance and facilitate many aspects of University life. 

Revenues from the General Fee support services, programs, facilities and materials to help students succeed and ultimately contribute to a comprehensive learning environment. The General Fee supports:

• University renovations, improvements and upgrades of classrooms, laboratories and other academic space.
• Current and future long-term investments in capital facilities and technology infrastructure.
• A comprehensive Campus Recreation program, including intramurals, wellness and fitness programs, aquatics, sport clubs and informal recreation.
• Enhancement of computer resources available to students including:
  • Computer labs
  • Smart classrooms
  • Connectivity
  • Support staff
• Student Health and Wellness Services to provide assessment and care for a wide range of student health concerns.
• Library initiatives that support student-learning opportunities.
• Infrastructure and operational costs involved in making online courses available to students.
• Performing Arts, including University theater and dance productions, and musical concerts.
• Student Government Association (SGA) student organizations and clubs, and the many activities, programs, media, and events sponsored by the SGA.
• The Student Union, which is the heart of the activity on campus. It is the scene of lectures, discussions, concerts, dances, meetings and other activities. The facilities include food services, lounges and meeting rooms.
• The Green Fee Committee supports the implementation of clean and renewable energy technologies and improvement of campus energy efficiency at the University. Some examples of the uses of this fee may include: a campus-wide energy audit, lighting efficiency improvements, alternate energy sources (solar panels) and recycling initiatives.
• Opt-in parking fee: $10 per credit hour (up to a total of 16 credit hours). Students have the option to access Blue Zone parking on University property. The fee for parking in the Blue Zone parking areas is $10 per credit hour (up to a total of 16 credit hours). 

Additionally, the University charges mandatory flat rate fees that are charged once per semester rather than by credit hour.

FEES FOR LIVING IN CAMPUS HOUSING

Northeastern’s first residence hall, The Nest, was built in 2016 on the Main Campus. Furnished, apartment-style units are available in two- and four-bedroom layouts. All units come with full-sized kitchens. Amenities include an Academic Success Center with iMacs and free printing, state-of-the-art fitness center, recreation center with billiards and arcade games, and on-site laundry and maintenance. Admitted students can to live on campus online or by calling (773) 442-4663.

FEES FOR PARKING ON CAMPUS

After registering for classes, students have three options for parking: to participate in the Blue Zone parking program, to participate in the Gold Zone parking program or to opt out of the parking programs.

Blue Zone Parking Program

Students (including student workers and extra help employees) are automatically billed for the Blue Zone parking program, with the exception of those who are also full-time and part-time employees.

Students who choose to participate in the Blue Zone parking program will be assessed the parking fee based on credit hours enrolled. Students must register their vehicle online. Once a student’s virtual permit has been issued, it can be viewed online and coverage is effective immediately. A valid virtual permit, or ePass, will be required in all parking lots at all University locations 24 hours a day.

Gold Zone Parking Program

Students who prefer to participate in Gold Zone parking must sign a waiver form to opt out of the Blue Zone parking program and then independently purchase a Gold Zone parking virtual permit. Students must register their vehicle online. Once a student’s virtual permit has been issued, it can be viewed online and coverage is effective immediately. A valid virtual permit, or ePass, will be required in all parking lots at all University locations 24 hours per day.

Opting Out of Parking Programs

Students who choose not to participate in a parking program must sign a waiver form to opt out. The waiver form can be downloaded on the Parking Information Channel in or picked up in the Office of Student Payment Services (Room D 101A) on the Main Campus.

Visit the Parking website for information on parking, virtual permits, parking registration and parking lots.

Refunds for parking are given in accordance with University tuition deadline dates and percentages. 

Taxable Income and the Verification Process

July 13, 2021 The U.S. Department of Education  on that it will waive verification requirements for students selected for standard FAFSA verification for  the 2021-22 enrollment cycle. Students selected for other verification groups will still need to provide information. The change, intended to ease the challenges students and institutions are experiencing because of the pandemic, means that fewer low-income students will have to provide additional proof that their financial information is accurate when the IRS Data Retrieval was not used.

Every year, the U.S. Department of Education selects a percentage of financial aid applicants for verification. It is a process to ensure program integrity and confirm that information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an accurate snapshot of your finances. It is a process of due diligence to ensure the right assistance is awarded to the right students. Being selected for the verification process can be frustrating but the Financial Aid Office is here to help. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns.

Selected for Verification? Here is how Taxable Income can be Verified

IRS Data Retrieval within the FAFSA

The best way to verify income is by using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool that is part of FAFSA on the web. If the student has not already used the tool, go to FAFSA.gov, log in to the student’s FAFSA record, select “Make FAFSA Corrections,” and navigate to the income section of the application. Follow the instructions to determine eligibility to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool and transfer 2018 IRS income tax information into the student’s FAFSA. The tax filing status should reflect "Already Filed.’’

IRS Tax Transcript

If unable to use IRS Data Retrieval, to obtain an IRS Tax Transcript, go to the and click on “Get Transcript Online.” Make sure to request the “IRS tax return transcript” and not the “IRS tax account transcript.” You will need a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) to register an account. Both the IRS Tax Transcript and W-2 forms can be submitted to the Financial Aid Office.

IRS Paper 1040 Tax Returns

If unable to access the tax transcript using IRS “Get Transcript Online” due to the absence of a personal account number from a credit card, mortgage, home equity loan, or car loan, students and families can provide one of the following:

Signed Dependent Verification Worksheet, sections B and/or C, item 1. Select the third option along with a signed photocopy of a 1040 tax return filed with the IRS and W-2 form(s) to the Financial Aid Office.

Signed Independent Verification Worksheet, sections B, item 1. Select the third option along with a signed photocopy of a 1040 tax return filed with the IRS and W-2 form(s) to the Financial Aid Office.

If you have already submitted the Verification Worksheet you have the option of revising it or providing the Financial Aid Office a typewritten statement from the student and/or parent with this reason reflected along with a signed photocopy of a 1040 tax return filed with the IRS and W-2 form(s).

NEIU ARP/HEERF IIII Act Student Emergency Grant
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

February, 2022

The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF IIII) is authorized by the , Public Law 117-2, signed into law on March 11, 2021, providing $39.6 billion in support to institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 pandemic. NEIU allocation: $9m student portion, $11m institutional portion.Below are population selection and eligibility parameters for student portion spring semester only.

Q: Am I eligible for HEERF III funding?

A: Student Emergency Grants will be awarded to degree-seeking students who were enrolled at the census date for the spring, 2022 semester. Students enrolled exclusively in online courses are eligible for CRRSAA funding. Included in these disbursements are undocumented and international students.

Q: Do I need to apply for HEERF III funding?

A: No, students do not need to apply for CRRSAA funding. Eligible students will receive CRRSAA funds through an automated process which does not require an application. Those who have already signed up for direct deposit will receive their grants faster than those who will be mailed checks. Please make sure your mailing address in NEIUport is up to date. (To set up an electronic payment account, please log into NEIUport and access the Student tab. Locate the link for “Payment/Refund” and then follow the instructions to create an electronic payment account.)

Q: What is the best way for me to receive the HEERF III funding?

A: The best way to receive this funding is via direct deposit. If you do not already have an electronic refund account created please do so by logging into , navigating to the Student tab, then find the Payment/Refund link on the left side of the page and follow the prompts.

Q: When will I receive the HEERF III funding?

A: Student Emergency Grants will be applied and refunds requested mid-February, 2022 (target date February 10).

Q: How much will I receive in HEERF III funding?

A: Eligible Northeastern students will receive $75 per credit hour base rate plus $36 per credit hour for federal Pell grant recipients, students who completed the RISE Act application, and an additional $36 per credit hour for students currently living in the NEST.

Q: Will the HEERF III funding be applied to my outstanding balance or possibly to my account balance for a previous term?

A: No, the HEERF III funding will be reflected as a credit to students’ accounts, then refunded directly to students.  These funds will not be used to pay student account charges for the current term or any previous terms, however once the refund is received a student can – in turn – use it to pay against any prior balance.

Q: Will the HEERF III funding impact or change my current financial aid eligibility or reduce my loans that I have already received?

A: No, although the HEERF III funding is in the form of a federal grant it has no impact and is separate from any eligibility currently or scheduled to be received by way of the FAFSA or alternative application.

Q: Does it matter whether I am an undergraduate or graduate student?

A: No, both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a degree seeking program at the time of spring, 2022 census will be eligible for HEERF III funding.

Q. I have not yet been admitted to a degree program. Instead I am taking classes as a Student At-Large. Do I qualify for HEERF III Funding?

A: No, HEERF III funding is limited to degree seeking enrolled students for spring, 2022 semester.

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago , IL 60625
United States

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago , IL 60625
United States

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago , IL 60625
United States

5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States