Originally published August 23, 2021.

Old Dominion University (ODU) announced on Aug. 11 that the university will be using funds received through the CARES Act to clear unpaid balances incurred in the spring 2021 semester. This relief will be extended to all students who were enrolled in the spring 2021 semester including non-degree, noncredit, undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, continuing education, and undocumented/international students.

“Old Dominion is committed to helping out students reach their academic potential”. Says Donald Stansberry, vice president for student engagement and enrollment services announced in the news release. “At a time when many families are facing financial stress because of the pandemic, these CARES Act funds will help eliminate significant roadblocks so students can continue on their academic journeys.”

These roadblocks include holds placed on student accounts due to outstanding balances, which prior to this act has kept students from receiving their transcripts or diplomas as well as enrolling in fall semester courses.

While this will alleviate outstanding balances, the funds will not cover personal loan debt incurred during the impacted period or cover loans owed to outside lenders.