updates

COVID / HEERF

The staff and faculty of Humphreys University are committed to your academic success and well-being. We have established this community updates page for students, parents, alums, and visitors to our campuses. On this page, you will be able to access current plans and updates on the status of the campus as well as resources related to COVID-19 and HEERF reporting requirements. The health of our entire community remains a priority. 

For general assistance, contact us during normal hours at (209) 478-0800.

Latest Update

2023

2022

April 2022
April 5, 2022

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 4/5/2022.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

January 2022

January 10, 2022

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 1/10/2022.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

2021

December 2021

December 15, 2021

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education Certification of Agreements for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act, the amount designated under section (a)(4) of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), and the amount designated under section (a)(4) of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 12/15/21
Amount received under CARES Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

Amount received under CRRSAA Section (a)(4): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 3/12/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $208,150
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: 340

Amount received under ARP Section (a)(4): $619,891
Date funds received by institution: 5/18/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $627,215
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: 612, duplicated

 

Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) III – American Rescue Plan of 2021

October 2021

October 6, 2021

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 9/30/2021.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

September 2021

September 17, 2021

Reporting Date: 9/17/21
Amount received under CARES Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

Amount received under CRRSAA Section (a)(4): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 3/12/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $208,150
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: 340

Amount received under ARP Section (a)(4): $619,891
Date funds received by institution: 5/18/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $312,215
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: 292

 

HEERF III – American Rescue Plan (ARP) Information

July 2021

July 16, 2021

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 6/30/2021.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education Certification of Agreements for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act, the amount designated under section (a)(4) of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), and the amount designated under section (a)(4) of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 6/30/21
Amount received under CARES Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

Amount received under CRRSAA Section (a)(4): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 3/12/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $208,150
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: 340

Amount received under ARP Section (a)(4): $619,891
Date funds received by institution: 5/18/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $0
Estimated number of students receiving Section (a)(4) funds: N/A

May 2021

May 13, 2021

To Humphreys University Students:

I don’t think anyone expected this to continue for so long, but with progress made in managing the spread of COVID pandemic in California generally, and San Joaquin County specifically, and with the availability and broad acceptance of vaccines, we look cautiously to a return to normalcy here at Humphreys beginning Summer quarter 2021.

We remain impressed by your resilience, fortitude, and adaptability in meeting the challenges presented over the past 14 months, and for continuing and thriving in the achievement of your educational goals. We have been busy planning for the “what’s next” phase and for the re-opening of our campuses and the return to on-ground classes. Thus, I’d like to share with you our current thoughts and plans in the coming months.

We intend to begin offering a limited number of on-ground classes in the upcoming Summer quarter, which starts July 5, 2021, in addition to continuing with online and virtual offerings. Fully online programs are not affected by these plans. Realistically, we understand that this pandemic is not over yet, that conditions may necessitate a continuation of fully online instruction, and that COVID is still present and must be addressed in whatever actions we take. Thus, planned on-ground courses will also be offered with a live virtual option. Come to campus, or log in virtually; choose the option that best suits your needs.  Want to attend one week on ground and online the next?  Great, we’ve got the ability to support you.

Attendance on campus will come with appropriate safety protocols and procedures, including social distancing and mask policies while inside a classroom, an office building, or the library, subject to state and federal mandates and guidelines. Student Services, Admissions, Registrar’s, and faculty offices will be staffed on the Stockton and Modesto campuses Monday through Thursday for in-person service by appointment, and will remain available through phone, email, and videoconferencing. The Stockton campus library and computer room will be open and available from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM Monday through Thursday for students to access University technical and computing resources. Tutoring services will remain available by appointment and provided by phone or videoconferencing for students at both the Stockton and Modesto campuses.

Last, we strongly encourage students to be vaccinated for your safety and those around you.

We are here to support you and Humphreys University remains 100% ready to offer our programs and services uninterrupted, and back on campus. Please support each other, be flexible, and be patient. Be proactive; if you need to talk, do not hesitate to contact your instructor, advisor, supervisor, a dean, or me. We will continue to move forward together.

If you have any questions about returning to campus, please contact us at returntocampus@humphreys.edu. Be safe and well, and we hope to see you back on campus next quarter!

 

Sincerely,
Robert G. Humphreys Jr.
President
Humphreys University

April 2021

April 16, 2021

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 3/31/2021.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

 

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 3/31/21
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $398,142
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020 and 3/12/21
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $404,300
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 590

March 2021

March 5, 2021

To the Humphreys University Student Community

This January, the U.S. Department of Education announced additional relief funds available to higher education institutions to ensure learning continues for students during the COVID-19 pandemic under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020.  Under CRRSAA, the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund II (HEERF II) is authorized to provide $81.88 billion in support for education, in addition to the $30.75 billion provided last spring through the Coronavirus Aid, Recovery, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Public Law 116-136.

A portion of these funds are reserved for emergency grants to students.  Humphreys University was designated $199,071 in student emergency grants under the student portion of CDFA 84.425E supplemental funding.  The amount of funding allocated to institutions was determined by the U.S. Department of Education based on a formula driven primarily by an institution’s proportion of high-need financial aid recipients.  These funds are reserved to provide students with financial aid grants, which may be used for any component of the student’s cost of attendance or for emergency costs that arise due to coronavirus, such as tuition, food, housing, health care (including mental health care) or child care.

Each institution is allowed and obligated to determine how to distribute these funds to students, with emphasis placed on prioritizing students with exceptional need, such as Pell Grant recipients.  Humphreys University has been following this legislation closely and working with its regional and national associations to determine a fair and reasonable distribution methodology. The award amounts below are designed to allocate HEERF II emergency grants across the eligible student body.

In keeping with the spirit of the legislation and depending on enrollment status in the Winter 2021 term, the highest grant amounts are provided to eligible students who exhibit the highest financial need based on information provided on their financial aid applications. Eligible students determined to have some need, and those who are eligible to receive financial aid but have not filed a FAFSA, will receive relief funds as well according to the table below.

  Enrollment Status
  Full-time Less than Full-time
Highest Need (EFC $0 – $5,711)  $925.00          $750.00
Some Need (EFC >=  $5,712) or No FAFSA  $525.00          $325.00

The University anticipates disbursing the HEERF II funds starting March 8, 2021. Funds will be disbursed automatically to eligible students through the Student Services Office via paper check to the current address listed in their student profile. Funds from the HEERF II CRRSAA Emergency Relief Fund are not considered financial aid and do not affect a student’s current or future financial aid eligibility. The amounts will be disbursed to students regardless of whether they owe any money to the University.

January 2021

January 20, 2021

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 12/31/2020.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

 

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 12/31/20
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

2020

October 2020

October 30, 2020

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting under CARES Act Sections 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion, 18004(a)(2), and 18004(a)(3) as of 9/30/2020.

Quarterly Report (PDF)

 

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.
Reporting Date: 10/30/20
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1) Student Portion: $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

September 2020

September 3, 2020

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 9/3/2020
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $197,950
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 252

July 2020

July 8, 2020

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 7/8/2020
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $193,350
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 239

 

July 2, 2020

To the Humphreys University Community:

Due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, Humphreys University is extending its modified hours of operation and methods of contact during the Summer 2020 term (July 6, 2020 to September 18, 2020).

  • The Stockton and Modesto campuses are closed to students for classes, except for a few Law classes offered in a blended (online and on-ground) format on the Stockton campus. All other classes are held online.
  • Student Services (Student Accounts, Financial Aid, Registrar, Admission) are available from 9AM to 5PM Monday through Thursday at (209) 478-0800, or directly by email. Phone messages will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member, who will contact you by phone or email.  Student Services departments are not available for face-to-face, on-campus meetings with students.
  • Academic department support and academic advising are available by phone or email through your Department Chair or a Dean.
  • Stockton Campus Library and Learning Center is open from 5:30PM to 9:30PM Monday through Thursday. Computers and study areas are available during these times.  Library staff are not able to assist with student services questions or support.  The Modesto campus remains closed at this time.
  • Tutoring is available by appointment only by contacting 209.235.2907 from 5:30PM to 9:30PM Monday through Thursday. Calls received outside of those hours will be returned during Library operating hours.  Tutoring will be delivered by phone, email, and Zoom videoconferencing.  See tutoring schedule for specific times.
  • Modesto inquiries, requests, and support will be serviced by emailing Lisa Kooren at lisa.kooren@humphreys.edu, or by calling the main Stockton campus phone number (209) 478-0800.
  • We have a limited number of laptop computers available for students who may need them to assist with online learning.  They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Please contact IT services at (209) 235-2999 for more information.

Health and Safety Protocols:

For students using the library and attending blended Law classes, the University is following health and safety protocols based on guidance from Federal, State, and local health authorities.

  • In compliance with State health orders, and barring any necessary accommodation, students must wear facemasks while on campus and inside a building, either the library or a classroom. We ask that students provide their own masks, though the University will provide disposable masks in student-accessible rooms/facilities.
  • Students should practice social distancing, maintaining a six-foot distance from other students/staff. Classrooms and library spaces have been modified to support social distancing.
  • The University has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols and cleaning frequency.
  • Students are encouraged to complete health self-assessments prior to coming to campus, checking for the following:
    • Do you have any signs or symptoms of a fever in the past 24 hours such as chills, sweats, felt “feverish” or had a temperature that is elevated for you/100.4F or greater?
    • Are you feeling “feverish”, please consider taking your temperature.
    • Do you currently have any of the following symptoms
      • Cough
      • Shortness of Breath or Chest Tightness
      • Sore Throat
      • Nasal Congestion/Runny Nose
      • Myalgia (Body Aches)
      • New Loss of Taste and/or Smell
      • Diarrhea
      • Nausea
      • Vomiting
      • Fever/Chills/Sweats
      • Within the last 14 days, have you been in contact with someone with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19?

If your response is yes to any of the above questions, please do not come to campus.

Looking forward:

While progress in combating this disease is uneven, and Federal, State, and local health orders remain fluid, Humphreys University and its students, staff, and faculty are well-prepared for the Summer term.  The University is actively planning for an expansion of on-campus opportunities and support for students in the Fall.  We appreciate your dedication, patience, and support in doing your part to protect your health and that of the community, and for your perseverance in your educational attainment.

June 2020

June 1, 2020

To the Humphreys University Student Community

Congress recently passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide economic relief related to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One element of CARES Act funding is the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). This fund is designed to provide financial relief to students as a result of the pandemic. Humphreys University was allocated $199,071 in student relief funds from HEERF under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act. The amount of HEERF funding allocated to institutions was determined by the U.S. Department of Education based on a formula driven primarily by an institution’s proportion of high-need financial aid recipients.

Each institution is allowed and obligated to determine how to distribute these funds to students. Humphreys University has been following this legislation closely and working with its regional and national associations to determine a fair and reasonable distribution methodology. The award amounts below are designed to allocate HEERF emergency grants across the eligible student body.

To be eligible for HEERF funds, a student must
1) be eligible to receive Federal Financial Aid; and
2) be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during the Spring 2020 term that is not a designated as a fully online program.

In keeping with the spirit of the legislation and what limited guidance was provided to institutions, and depending on enrollment status in the Spring 2020 term, the highest grant amounts are provided to eligible students who exhibit the highest financial need based on information provided on their financial aid applications. Eligible students determined to have some need, and those who are eligible to receive financial aid but have not filed a FAFSA, will receive relief funds as well according to the table below.

Students who have not filed a FAFSA but who are otherwise eligible to receive Title IV financial aid must complete an Attestation Form in order to receive funds, and have been pre-screened by the University. These students will receive a follow-up email from Student Services to apply for emergency funds. The University anticipates disbursing the HEERF funds this week. Funds will be disbursed automatically to eligible students through the Student Services Office via paper check to the current address listed in their student profile. The amounts will be disbursed to students regardless of whether they owe any money to the University.

 

Humphreys University signed and returned to the Department of Education a Certification of Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act on May 19, 2020 and assures that it has used or intends to use no less than 50% of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

Reporting Date: 6/2/2020
Amount received under Section 18004(a)(1): $199,071
Date funds received by institution: 5/28/2020
Amount disbursed as of reporting date: $192,750
Estimated number of students receiving Section 18004(a)(1) funds: 233

April 2020

April 2, 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Humphreys University is altering its hours of operation and methods of contact during the Spring 2020 term (April 6, 2020 to June 19, 2020).

  • The Stockton and Modesto campuses are closed to students for classes. All classes are held online.
  • Student Services (Student Accounts, Financial Aid, Registrar, Admission) are available from 9AM to 5PM Monday through Thursday at (209) 478-0800, or directly by email. Phone messages will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member, who will contact you by phone or email.  Student Services departments are not available for face-to-face, on-campus meetings with students.
  • Academic department support and academic advising are available by phone or email through your Department Chair or a Dean.
  • Stockton Campus Library and Learning Center is open from 5:30PM to 9:30PM Monday through Thursday. Computers and study areas are available during these times.  Library staff are not able to assist with student services questions or support.
  • Tutoring is available by appointment only by contacting 209.235.2907 from 5:30PM to 9:30PM Monday through Thursday. Calls received outside of those hours will be returned during Library operating hours.  Tutoring will be delivered by phone, email, and Zoom videoconferencing.  See tutoring schedule for specific times.
  • Modesto inquiries, requests, and support will be serviced by emailing Lisa Kooren at lisa.kooren@humphreys.edu, or by calling the main Stockton campus phone number (209) 478-0800

Humphreys University has decided it is prudent to postpone June commencement ceremonies until, tentatively, the end of the summer term in September. We understand and share students’ desire and excitement to participate in graduation and be recognized for their achievement and perseverance through their educational program.  Families want to celebrate their students’ successes as well.  We would prefer not do to this, but it is in everyone’s best interest at this time.  To be clear, we are not cancelling, but postponing.  We will keep you up to date, and will have more guidance at the end of the Spring 2020 quarter.

March 2020

March 24, 2020

To Humphreys University Students:

The Covid-19 pandemic represents a great challenge to this nation and our community. In the past two weeks, we have seen swift and drastic change to the way that we live our lives and go about our business. I would like to update you on what Humphreys University is doing in light of current events and in our continued mission of service to you.

Currently, during the winter break, March 23 through April 5, the Stockton and Modesto campuses are closed to students, though there are limited staff on site to maintain operations. University student services, including student accounts, Registrar, academic advising, and financial aid are available by email and by phone. Please call the Stockton main phone number 209.478.0800. Your calls will be routed to the appropriate Humphreys staff member who will respond via email or by phone. Tuition payments may be made by phone at the Stockton campus main phone number, 209.478.0800. Academic advisors and department chairs may be contacted by email. A directory of contact information can be found on the Humphreys website at https://humphreysadmin.wpengine.com/about/directory/

For the Spring quarter, April 6 through June 19, we have moved all classes online. Please continue to check your Humphreys email regularly now and during the Spring quarter to ensure that you receive University communications. Administrative services will be available during the term by email and by phone. Please call the Stockton main phone number 209.478.0800. Your calls will be routed to the appropriate Humphreys staff member who will respond via email or by phone. The Stockton campus library and computer room will be open and available during the Spring quarter from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM Monday through Thursday for students to access University technical and computing resources. Tutoring services will be available by appointment and provided by phone or videoconferencing for students at both the Stockton and Modesto campuses.

In these trying times, I hope you can rest a little easier knowing that your education is still attainable and that Humphreys University stands 100% ready to offer our programs and services uninterrupted. We are here to support you. Please support each other, be flexible, and be patient. Be proactive; if you need to talk, do not hesitate to contact your instructor, advisor, supervisor, a dean, or me. We will get through this together.
Be safe and well, and we will see you all online next quarter!

 

March 15, 2020

To students, faculty, staff, and members of the Humphreys University Community:

The situation with coronavirus has been fast-moving and dynamic, affecting all corners of our community.  Humphreys University has been actively monitoring the developments of the coronavirus pandemic, following guidelines from local, state, and Federal health authorities, and planning internally on potential responses should they become necessary.

I would like to reiterate that there are no known cases of coronavirus at Humphreys University or its partner charter school ABLE at either campus in Stockton or Modesto.  Our priorities are the protection of the health of our students and employees and providing quality educational service.

Finals are this week, March 16 – 20, and on-ground classes will be held as scheduled unless you are otherwise notified by your department chair to complete your final through online methods.  We will make every effort to move finals to online and to provide extra space and keep class sizes small during on-ground finals.  Please check your Humphreys email regularly in the coming days.

The Stockton and Modesto campuses will remain open this week.  Administrative services will be available through phone, email, and videoconferencing from 10am to 7pm, and face-to-face from 4pm to 6:30pm.  Computer labs and the library will be available in the evenings from 5pm to 10pm should students need them to access online courses or compete coursework for finals using the University’s library and technical resources.

We will continue to assess the status of the coronavirus pandemic for the upcoming Spring quarter.  In the face of this challenge, Humphreys finds itself well prepared and ready to serve.   We are a strong and resilient community, able to positively address these challenges.  Thank you in advance for your support, patience, and understanding.

 

March 12, 2020

Humphreys University continues to actively monitor the developments of the coronavirus (COVID-19).  As of March 11, there is one confirmed case of COVID-19 in San Joaquin County, and two confirmed cases in Stanislaus County. There are no confirmed or suspected cases of coronavirus among the Humphreys University community at either the Stockton or Modesto campuses.

The campus is open and all classes are continuing as scheduled.  We are reviewing alternative instructional options to be implemented if necessary.  If you feel sick, consult with your healthcare provider as you would under ordinary circumstances.

American Rescue Plan of 2021 (HEERF III):  Professional Judgment

In accordance with the American Rescue Plan of 2021, which was signed into law by Congress in March 2021, Humphreys University is required to conduct direct outreach to financial aid applicants to inform them of the opportunity for a Professional Judgement Adjustment appeal.

What is Professional Judgment?

Each academic year, a student’s financial aid eligibility is based on the information provide on the FAFSA.  The income and asset information provided is assessed using a formula created by Congress known as the Federal Methodology. This formula assumes that the family’s financial strength in 2019 is a good predictor of the family’s financial strength throughout the student’s enrollment in the 2021–2022 year. Based on this assumption, financial aid eligibility is evaluated using information from the 2019 tax return.

A Professional Judgement appeal allows for a financial aid adjustment due to the recent unemployment of a dependent student’s immediate family member (mother or father) or the recent unemployment of an independent student, or other COVID-19-related circumstances. This refers to a considerable difference in a student’s current 2021 or 2020 income from the required 2019 tax data reported on their 2021/2022 FAFSA.

The following are examples of situations that may merit an appeal:

• Significant loss of income or benefits (e.g., disability, child support, etc.)
• Death of parent (Dependent) or spouse (Independent)
• Divorce or separation of parents
• Unusual medical expenses (not covered by insurance)
• One-time taxable income used for life changing events (e.g., IRA, pension distribution, back-year Social Security payments)
• Significant medical expenses

Situations that do NOT merit appeal include, but are not limited to:
• Standard living expenses (e.g., utilities, credit card payments, children’s allowances, etc.)
• Mortgage payments
• Car payments
• Vacation expenses
• Wedding expenses

The Student Services Department encourages students to file a Professional Judgment Appeal when they or their household has suffered a loss of income directly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

How to Submit Your Appeal

The first step in filing an appeal is to call or email the Student Services Department at (209) 478-0800. You’ll be directed to your Student Account Specialist, who will walk you through the steps of filing a Professional Judgment Appeal. If your circumstances indicate that you would benefit from a Professional Judgment, your Student Account Specialist will assist you in completing your Professional Judgment Request Form such that our Financial Aid Team can evaluate and approve or deny your request.

If Your Appeal Is Approved

Your FAFSA will be updated according to our Financial Aid Team’s findings, and additional financial aid, could be provided based on eligibility and availability of funds. Please note that an approved appeal is not a guarantee of additional financial aid.

If Your Appeal Is Denied

Appeal results are final. Your appeal will be closed and will not be reviewed again by our Financial Aid Team unless you are able to provide additional documentation that was not previously submitted with the original appeal.

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