Consequences of Drug Convictions on Students’ Ability to Receive Federal Aid

Posted in Student Communications

September 10, 2020

Dear Student,

Consistent with the requirements of the federal Higher Education Act, I write to you today to provide you with a summary of the consequences of drug convictions on students’ ability to receive federal financial aid. 

Students who are convicted under any state or federal law for possessing or selling illegal drugs while they are receiving a federal grant, loan, or a work-study award will not be eligible to receive the aid for the following time periods, starting from the date of conviction:

Students may shorten the applicable period of ineligibility if: (1) they complete a drug rehabilitation program that includes two unannounced drug tests and otherwise meets U.S. Department of Education requirements; or (2) they pass two unannounced drug tests administered by an approved drug rehabilitation program; or (3) the drug-related conviction is reversed, set aside or otherwise rendered invalid.  20 U.S.C. § 1091(r).

We encourage you to visit the website http://policies.georgetown.edu/policies-on-alcohol-and-other-drugs for more information regarding Georgetown University policies and applicable laws and penalties related to the use, possession, and distribution of alcohol and other drugs; information about the risks and effects of drug and alcohol use and dependence; and resources to assist students and other members of our community with issues related to alcohol or drugs.

Sincerely,

Annamarie Bianco
Associate Vice President and University Registrar