A Drug Conviction Will Make An Impact On Student Aid

Government-backed financial aid is a must for many college students in Wisconsin. Student aid can help cover the cost of tuition, books and fees, and other expenses, but obtaining that aid means meeting certain eligibility requirements. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) requires applicants to answer questions about any past drug convictions, the answers to which can have an impact on student aid received and when it is received.

Drug Convictions Can Make You Ineligible For Student Aid

Certain drug convictions will make an impact on student aid, rendering you temporarily ineligible for government-backed funds. You may even lose any aid you have already been approved for or received if you are convicted of a drug offense. If you receive aid after failing to report a conviction, you might have to repay the government any aid you have received.

Reinstatement Is Possible

It is possible to receive reinstatement of your funds if they have been suspended due to drugs. In order to have your funds reinstated, you will need to:

• Participate in and complete an approved drug rehab program and/or
• Pass two random, unannounced drug tests at an approved drug rehabilitation program.

You are responsible for pursuing reinstatement of your funds as the government does not monitor these suspensions for reinstatement eligibility. You will need to communicate with your school financial aid office when you regain your eligibility and complete any required paperwork.

Convictions Can Affect Other Sources Of Funding

If you have scholarships, grants, or other sources of funding from an outside organization, a conviction may affect your eligibility to receive those funds as well. Check with the fund administrators to see if there are repercussions for a drug conviction.

Don’t Risk Your Education Over A Drug Offense

Conviction on drug charges is harsh enough, don’t risk losing your education funding as well. If you are facing drug charges in Wisconsin, contact the Madison law firm of Eisenberg Law Offices for advice and representation. We can help you fight drug charges for a possible reduce sentence and perhaps save your educational aid.

Arrange a free case consultation by calling our firm at 608-256-8356 or emailing info@eisenberglaw.org.