If you were a student at Maryville University of St. Louis during the Spring 2020 semester, you may be eligible for a financial payout from a class action settlement. This legal agreement addresses concerns regarding tuition and fees paid when the university transitioned to remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students felt that the shift to online classes did not provide the same value as the in-person experience they originally paid for, leading to this legal resolution.
Understanding the Maryville University Settlement
The settlement was established to resolve a class action lawsuit claiming that Maryville University breached its contracts with students by moving to online instruction during the onset of the pandemic. While the university denies any wrongdoing and maintains that it acted in the best interest of its community, both parties reached an agreement to avoid the costs and uncertainties of a prolonged trial.
This settlement creates a fund intended to provide partial refunds for certain fees and tuition costs. It is important to note that this applies specifically to the transition period when campus facilities were closed and services were moved to a digital format. If you were enrolled during this time, you are likely considered a “Class Member.”
Who Is Eligible for a Payment?
Eligibility for the Maryville University settlement depends on your enrollment status during the specific timeframe impacted by pandemic closures. Generally, you are eligible if you meet the following criteria:
- You were enrolled in any Maryville University program as of March 16, 2020.
- You paid tuition and/or fees for the Spring 2020 semester.
- You did not opt-out of the settlement class by the specified legal deadline.
The settlement includes both undergraduate and graduate students. It also covers students who may have graduated or left the university since the 2020 academic year. If you were enrolled exclusively in an online program prior to the pandemic, your eligibility may differ, as your educational experience did not change from in-person to remote.
How Much Can You Expect to Receive?
The total settlement fund is typically distributed among all eligible class members after legal fees and administrative costs are deducted. The exact amount each student receives depends on several factors:
- The total number of students who submit valid claims or remain in the settlement class.
- The specific fees you paid during the Spring 2020 semester.
- Whether you were a full-time or part-time student.
Payments are generally distributed on a pro-rata basis. This means the money is divided proportionally based on the amount of qualifying fees each student paid. While these payments may not cover the full cost of tuition, they serve as a reimbursement for the loss of campus-based services and amenities that were unavailable during the lockdown period.
Steps to Secure Your Settlement Payment
In many class action settlements of this nature, eligible individuals are identified through university records. However, it is vital to be proactive to ensure you receive your funds. Follow these steps to protect your rights:
1. Verify Your Contact Information
The settlement administrator uses the last known address or email on file with Maryville University. If you have moved or changed your email address since 2020, you should contact the official settlement administrator to update your records. This ensures that your check or electronic payment reaches you successfully.
2. Check for an Official Notice
Class members usually receive an official notice via mail or email. This document contains a unique “Class Member ID” which is used to log into the settlement website. If you believe you are eligible but did not receive a notice, you can contact the administrator to verify your status.
3. Choose Your Payment Method
Modern settlements often allow you to choose how you want to be paid. Options typically include a physical check, Venmo, PayPal, or direct deposit. Selecting an electronic method is often the fastest way to receive your money once the court grants final approval.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Class action lawsuits are governed by strict timelines. Missing a deadline can result in losing your right to a payment or your right to sue the university individually in the future. Key dates to watch for include:
- The Claim Deadline: The final date by which you must submit a claim form (if required) or update your information.
- The Exclusion Deadline: The last day to “opt-out” if you wish to retain your right to sue Maryville University separately regarding this issue.
- The Objection Deadline: The date by which you must submit any formal complaints about the settlement terms to the court.
- The Final Approval Hearing: The date the court meets to decide if the settlement is fair and reasonable. Payments are usually sent out several weeks or months after this date.
Why Was This Lawsuit Filed?
The core of the legal argument was that students paid for an “on-campus experience” that included access to libraries, laboratories, fitness centers, and face-to-face networking. When the pandemic forced these services to close, the plaintiffs argued that the university should have returned a portion of the mandatory fees that funded those specific services.
By settling, Maryville University can focus on its current educational mission while providing a resolution for former and current students. For students, it provides a straightforward way to recover some costs without having to hire an attorney or participate in a trial themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to participate?
No, you do not need to hire your own lawyer. The class representatives have already retained legal counsel to represent the entire group of students. The legal fees are paid out of the total settlement fund, not out of your pocket.
What if I am no longer a student?
Your current student status does not matter. As long as you were enrolled and paid fees during the Spring 2020 semester, you are part of the settlement class. Many eligible recipients are now alumni.
Is this settlement money taxable?
Generally, settlements that are considered a refund of tuition or educational expenses are not treated as taxable income, but this can vary based on your individual tax situation. It is always best to consult with a tax professional if you have concerns about how a settlement payment affects your filings.
Conclusion
The Maryville University COVID-19 settlement is a significant step in providing closure for students impacted by the unprecedented disruptions of 2020. By staying informed and ensuring your contact information is current, you can ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Remember to keep an eye on your mail and email for official updates from the settlement administrator.
For more information on navigating financial refunds, managing student accounts, or understanding your rights as a consumer, explore our other guides on educational law and financial recovery. Taking a few minutes today to verify your eligibility could result in a helpful payment for your past educational expenses.