Health Risks of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

The scope and impact of health risks from alcohol and drug abuse are both alarming and well-documented ranging from mood altering to life-threatening, with consequences that extend beyond the individual to family, organizations, and society at large. The university therefore conducts programs to educate its faculty, staff, and students that the abuse of alcohol and other drugs alters behavior, distorts perception, impairs thinking, impedes judgment, and sabotages opportunity. Alcohol and drug abuse also may result in deterioration of physical health by causing or contributing to various diseases, illnesses, birth defects, and even death.

Drug Convictions:  Student Financial Aid Eligibility

Beginning with the 2021-2022 year, the U.S. Department of Education is removing the suspension of eligibility for Title IV aid, (Pell, SEOG, Federal Work Study, Federal Direct Student Loans) due to a drug conviction that occurred while receiving Title IV aid. Since the 2021-2022 year FAFSA is already in the processing cycle, the drug conviction question will remain on the FAFSA until the Department phases it out in the next year cycle. Institutions will ignore any flags or comment codes related to the previous drug conviction requirement and will not request resolution actions from the student. Institutions will proceed to award and disburse Title IV aid to students if they are otherwise eligible.

The drug conviction requirement remains in effect for all State aid (all HOPE/Zell and GTEG funds). The requirement is included in State of Georgia regulations and can only be removed or changed by State legislative action. If you have any questions about drug conviction and how it affects your financial aid, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 706-776-0114 or finaid@piedmont.edu