***The information was taken directly from the “Drug Convictions May Affect Your Student Aid”. Published by the Department of Education.***
What Do Drugs Convictions have to do with Student Aid?
Under a new law, some students who have a drug-related conviction may be ineligible for federal student aid. A drug-related conviction refers to the possession or sale of illegal drugs (this does not include alcohol or tobacco). The new law took effect on July 1, 2000.
According to the law, if you, the student, are convicted of a drug-related offense, you may face certain restrictions on student aid.
Do all drug convictions count?
Convictions that were removed from your record do not count. Also, do not count any conviction that occurred before you turned 18 unless you were prosecuted as an adult.
If I have a drug conviction, should I still apply for student aid?
You should still complete and submit your FAFSA. You may be eligible, depending on factors such as the date, type and number of convictions.
Even if you are not eligible for federal aid some students may qualify for state/school grants and/or scholarships. In addition, you can regain eligibility for federal student aid by completing a rehabilitation program.
What if I am ineligible indefinitely?
You can regain eligibility for federal student financial aid no matter how many or what type of drug convictions you have. To do so, you must successfully complete an acceptable drug rehabilitation program that meets the standards set by Congress and the Department of Education. You will regain eligibility on the date you complete the program.
What is an acceptable drug rehabilitation program?
An acceptable drug rehabilitation program must have two unannounced drug tests, AND it must meet either one of the following requirements.
- Be qualified to receive funds under a federal, state, or local government program, or from a federally or state-licensed insurance company.
OR
- Be administered or recognized by a federal, state or local government agency or court, or by a federally or state-licensed hospital, health clinic or medical doctor.
A list of Drug Rehabilitation facilities can be found in this PDF. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the facility directly to see if it meets the requirements listed above.
