What is the HEROES Act?
The Secretary of the Department of Education allows for the modification or waiver of provisions for financial aid recipients due to war, military operation, or national emergency through the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students (HEROES) Act of 2003.
Who is Eligible Under the HEROES Act?
Individuals, as well as their spouses and dependents, who meet one of the following are able to receive certain assistance regarding Federal Student Aid:
- Active duty military personnel serving during a war, military operation or national emergency
- Members of the National Guard performing a qualifying duty (as defined by the Federal Register) during war, a military operation or national emergency
- People who reside or are employed in an area declared a disaster area by any Federal, State or local official in connection with a national emergency
- People who suffer economic hardship as a result of a war, military operation, or national emergency.
Please Note: National emergencies must have been declared by the President of the United States and can include those caused by a natural disaster (i.e. hurricane, tornado, tsunami).
How do I Get Assistance?
Under the HEROES Act, students can receive relief in loan repayment, deferment, cancelation, and default by contacting their federal student loan servicer. Students who do not know who their federal loan servicers are should visit www.nslds.ed.gov for additional information.
Students who are experiencing financial issues at Madison College regarding the financing of their education for the current or upcoming semester are encouraged to contact the financial aid office to explain their situation. The HEROES Act can provide relief for institutional charges and refunds, Satisfactory Academic Progress, verification, and unusual circumstances for students who meet the established guidelines.
For additional information, visit Aid for Military Families on the Federal Student Aid website.