Hey everyone, my parent served in the military, and I'm considering attending a military college. I've heard some vague benefits for dependents like myself. Can anyone tell me more about what benefits there are specifically? Thanks!
Hello! Given your parent's military service, there are indeed a number of benefits that can prove helpful as you consider attending a military college.First, you could qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill transferred benefits. These benefits cover a portion or all of the tuition fees for a public college or up to a predetermined maximum amount for a private or foreign institution. Along with tuition, the benefits could also include a housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.
A second benefit is the Yellow Ribbon Program. This is specifically for Veterans and their dependents who are eligible for the maximum benefit rate. If your costs exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition or if you're attending a private institution, an international school, or a public school as a non-resident student, the latter could provide additional support. Certain schools participate in this program and contribute an amount which the VA matches, helping to cover the leftover unmet charges.
Next up is the Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program. As a child of a Veteran, you might be eligible to receive up to 45 months of education benefits that can be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training.
The Fry Scholarship might be another option to look into. It provides Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to the children of service members who perished in the line of duty while on active duty after September 10, 2001.
It's also worth mentioning that some military colleges including the United States Military Academy (West Point), United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy, and United States Merchant Marine Academy grant full scholarships to all students who are admitted.
Do check the exact eligibility criteria and benefits of each program to understand if and how they apply to you. Prior detailed financial planning is always an excellent idea. I hope this information helps you navigate your options more comfortably!
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