List of 10 frequently asked questions.

• What is the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF) and what does it cover?

  The Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF) was established by the Board of Trustees to provide a one-time grant toward tuition assistance for families experiencing significant financial hardship due to the COVID-19 crisis. These funds are available to enrolled families via an application process (see below on how to apply) after all other sources of assistance are exhausted, including more time to pay (alternative payment plans).

   

• How do I know if I am eligible for the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF)?

  Families that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and are experiencing significant financial hardship may apply for the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF). Funds are allocated, to the extent funds are available in the Fund, to families with demonstrated financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a last resort fund after all other relief avenues, including extending payment plans, have been exhausted.

• How do I apply?

  To apply for the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF), families will be asked to complete this application and provide necessary documentation.

   

• Is there a deadline to apply for the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF)?

  No, but please submit the application as soon as possible.

• How will I be notified if I will receive support from the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF)?

  The Business Office will notify recipients via a DocuSign award acknowledgement.

• What is the difference between the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF) and the School’s Financial Assistance program?

  The CFERF is an emergency fund created to provide one-time support to current Collegiate families for whom this pandemic has created significant financial hardship. Collegiate's Need-based Financial Assistance Program supports our ongoing commitment to need-based financial assistance. Roughly 18% of Collegiate students receive some sort of need-based financial assistance. Due to the impact of COVID-19, we expect to see an increase in applications from current families who are in need of first-time or increased financial aid assistance.

• How can I support the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF)?

  Many in the Collegiate community have asked how they can help. A gift of any size to support these families in need can be made here. All gifts are tax deductible and count toward your Annual Fund support of the School. Please designate in the notes line.

• Does a contribution to the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF) count as an Annual Fund gift?

  Yes. All gifts received to the Collegiate Families Emergency Relief Fund (CFERF) will count as Annual Fund support of the School and will be recognized in donor lists and participation numbers.

• What if the funds raised for CFERF are more than what is needed to support Collegiate families?

  Any funds above and beyond what is needed to support our families will be designated for the School’s need-based financial assistance endowment.

• Can I get a federal income tax deduction for my gift?

  Yes! All gifts to Collegiate are eligible for an income tax charitable deduction, but there is also a special provision for 2020. Under the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, donors who take the standard deduction can claim an above the line tax deduction (not to exceed $300) for gifts of cash to qualified charitable organizations.