If you were a student at Maryville University of St. Louis during the Spring 2020 semester, you may be eligible for a refund. A class action settlement has been reached to resolve claims that the university should have returned a portion of tuition and fees when the campus closed due to the pandemic. This guide explains who is eligible, how much you might receive, and the steps you need to take to secure your payment.
Understanding the Maryville University Settlement
The lawsuit, known as Kozak v. Maryville University of St. Louis, was filed by students who argued they did not receive the full value of the in-person education they paid for. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, Maryville, like most institutions, transitioned to remote learning. The plaintiffs alleged that because they lost access to campus facilities, in-person instruction, and student services, a partial refund was necessary.
Maryville University denies any wrongdoing and maintains that it provided a high-quality education despite the global emergency. However, both parties agreed to a $1.5 million settlement to avoid the costs and uncertainty of a prolonged trial. This settlement fund is intended to compensate students who were enrolled in on-campus programs during that specific timeframe.
Who is Eligible for a Payment?
Eligibility for the settlement is strictly defined by your enrollment status during the Spring 2020 semester. You are considered a “Settlement Class Member” if you meet the following criteria:
- You were enrolled in an on-campus program at Maryville University on or around March 2020.
- You paid tuition and fees for the Spring 2020 semester.
- Your classes were moved to a remote or online format for the remainder of that term.
It is important to note that students who were already enrolled in fully online degree programs prior to the pandemic are generally not included in this settlement. The legal argument focused specifically on the loss of the “on-campus experience” that was promised to traditional students.
How Much Money Can You Receive?
The total settlement fund of $1.5 million is divided among several categories before it reaches students. First, the fund covers administrative costs, such as the expense of mailing notices and managing the claims website. It also covers court-approved attorney fees and service awards for the students who acted as class representatives.
The remaining amount, known as the “Net Settlement Fund,” is distributed to eligible students. The exact amount each person receives depends on two main factors:
- The number of valid claims filed: As more people participate, the individual payout may decrease slightly, as the fund is shared.
- Pro-rata distribution: Payments are typically calculated based on a percentage of the tuition and fees you actually paid out of pocket, excluding scholarships or grants.
While individual amounts vary, settlements of this nature often result in payments ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the specific fee structures of the university.
How to File Your Claim
To receive your portion of the settlement, you must follow the official claim process. In many cases, the settlement administrator sends out notices via email or physical mail to students the university has on record. This notice contains a Claimant ID that simplifies the process.
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
- Visit the Official Settlement Website: Navigate to the dedicated portal established by the settlement administrator.
- Enter Your Information: Use your Claimant ID to log in. If you did not receive a code but believe you are eligible, you can usually file a claim by providing your name, address, and student details.
- Select Your Payment Method: Most modern settlements allow you to choose between a physical check, a direct deposit, or a digital payment service like Venmo or PayPal.
- Review and Submit: Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays. You will receive a confirmation number once the submission is complete.
What if I moved?
If you have graduated or moved since 2020, the university might have an outdated address for you. It is vital to update your contact information on the settlement website to ensure your check or digital payment reaches you safely.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Legal settlements are time-sensitive. If you miss a deadline, you forfeit your right to any money and your right to sue the university for this specific issue in the future. Keep these dates in mind:
- Claim Submission Deadline: This is the final date to submit your form. Forms submitted after this date will not be honored.
- Opt-Out Deadline: If you wish to sue Maryville University on your own, you must formally exclude yourself from the settlement by this date.
- Objection Deadline: If you disagree with the terms of the settlement, you can file a formal objection with the court.
- Final Approval Hearing: The court meets on this date to decide if the settlement is fair and reasonable.
Payments are only distributed after the court grants “Final Approval” and any potential appeals are resolved. This means it may take several months after the filing deadline before you see the funds in your account.
Why You Should Participate
Filing a claim is a straightforward way to recover some of the costs associated with the disruption of your education. Many students found the transition to remote learning difficult, and this settlement acknowledges the financial impact of that shift. Even if the expected amount seems small, participating ensures that the funds are distributed to the students they were intended for rather than being returned or used elsewhere.
Conclusion
The Maryville University COVID-19 settlement provides a path for Spring 2020 students to receive compensation for the sudden change in their educational experience. By understanding your eligibility and meeting the filing deadlines, you can ensure you receive your fair share of the settlement fund. If you have questions about your specific enrollment status, contact the settlement administrator listed on the official portal for the most accurate information.
For more guidance on navigating financial refunds, student rights, and online services, explore our other helpful articles. Staying informed is the best way to handle everyday legal and financial hurdles with confidence.