FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - USF CLASS ACTION

1.     What is this case? This is a class action lawsuit brought by the plaintiff who claims that USF charged students certain fees for on-campus services during the Spring, Summer, and Fall 2020 semesters and Spring 2021 semester, even though those services were not provided when campuses closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The lawsuit seeks to recover those fees on behalf of affected students. A proposed settlement has now been reached, and if you are a Class Member, the settlement may affect your legal rights and the options available to you.

2.    Who won? The Court has not made a final decision on who is right. USF denies the allegations and maintains that it did not breach any agreement with students. The Court previously ruled in USF’s favor but that ruling was appealed. 

3.    How do I know if I am part of the Class? You may be part of the Class if you were enrolled at USF during Spring 2020, Summer 2020, Fall 2020, or Spring 2021 and paid fees for services, facilities, resources, activities, or events that were not provided during those semesters. All students who meet this definition are included. If you are unsure whether you qualify, you can contact Class Counsel for free assistance.

4.    What do I get as a result of the Settlement? You have the opportunity to take, for free, one of two courses being offered by USF. You can find information on the courses on the “USF Link.” 

5.    Do I have to do anything? No. If you stay in the Settlement Class and the Court approves the settlement, you will receive the settlement benefit and will be bound by the settlement, meaning you cannot bring separate claims based on the same allegations. If you opt out, you will not receive the settlement benefit, but you will keep the right to pursue your own claims against USF. You may request to exclude yourself from the Settlement Class and/or object to the Settlement by following the instructions in the Notice. The deadline for all objections and requests for exclusions is October 28, 2026.

6.    Who is my attorney? The Court has appointed The Moskowitz Law Firm, PLLC to represent the Class as “Class Counsel.” The firm has experience handling class action cases and will represent Class Members who remain in the settlement, at no cost to them. If you choose to hire your own attorney, you may do so at your own expense.