Consequence of Drug Conviction
Description
Consequences of Drug Convictions on Ability to Receive Federal Aid
Consistent with the requirements of the federal Higher Education Opportunity Act, the following is a summary of the consequences of drug convictions on your 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:
| Offense | Possession of Illegal Drugs | Sale of Illegal Drugs |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Offense | 1 year of ineligibility | 2 years of ineligibility |
| 2nd Offense | 2 years of ineligibility | Indefinite period of ineligibility |
| 3rd Offense | Indefinite period of ineligibility | Indefinite period of ineligibility |
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. ยง 1091(r).
We encourage you to visit the website secretary.howard.edu for more information regarding Howard 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 with issues related to alcohol or drugs.