Parkersburg, W.Va. (April 24, 2020) – West Virginia University at Parkersburg is offering emergency grants to eligible students to assist with unexpected financial challenges related to COVID-19. The funding, made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will help students with expenses, such as food, technology and child care, during this uncertain time.

Fully-admitted, degree-seeking students who are currently enrolled in at least one course in the Spring 2020 semester at WVU Parkersburg and eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 can apply for a CARES emergency student grant at www.wvup.edu/cares. Students must be logged in to their campus email account to access the application.

The priority application deadline is 4 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2020. CARES emergency grant funds will be distributed to qualifying students as quickly as possible.

In addition to transient, Early College and other non-matriculated students, those enrolled in fully online degree programs are not eligible for emergency financial assistance through the CARES Act.

“The Board of Governors, administration, faculty and staff of WVU Parkersburg are at all times committed to supporting our students in pursuit of their educational dreams,” said WVU Parkersburg President Dr. Chris Gilmer. “At no time has our support been more essential than in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and in the months to follow. We are appreciative to the federal government for the stimulus funds which will help us to provide direct support to our students and also to provide strategic fiscal support for the institution as a whole.”

Students will need to have a completed 2019-2020 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file to qualify for a grant.

“We thank West Virginia Senators Manchin and Capito and our other elected leaders who worked hard to have higher education included in the stimulus package, and we pledge to our students that we will get these funds into your hands as quickly and easily as possible,” Gilmer added.

Students who do not have the means to complete the online application or need assistance should call the WVU Parkersburg Financial Aid Office at 304-424-8310 and leave a name, student ID number and phone number, or email finaid@wvup.edu.