Benefits for Military Dependents Going to College

My parent is retired military. I've heard there are some benefits for us going to college. Can anyone provide some insights into this?

Absolutely, dependents of retired military personnel do often have benefits when it comes to college. Here are some key programs that might be relevant:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: If your parent has transferred their benefits to you, you may be eligible to receive up to 36 months of benefits, which include tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for textbooks and supplies. How much you receive depends on your parent's level of service.

2. Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) Program: If you're a son or daughter of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition (or who died while on active duty as a result of a service-related condition), you may qualify for this program which provides up to 45 months of education benefits.

3. Fry Scholarship: If you're a child of an active duty member who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, you could be eligible for 36 months of benefits under the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship.

4. Service state-specific programs: Many states offer additional benefits, such as tuition waivers or scholarships, to children of veterans. Rules vary, so check with your state's veterans affairs office.

5. Military dependent scholarships: There are also numerous scholarships specifically for military dependents. One example is the Scholarships for Military Children Program. There's also the AMVETS National Scholarship Program, which awards scholarships to veterans, active military, Guard/Reserves, and their children or grandchildren.

Remember, though, that each of these programs come with their own set of eligibility criteria and it's always a good idea to cross-check the qualification requirements to see which you might qualify for. In addition to these benefits, many colleges and universities also offer resources to support military dependents, such as special counseling resources, clubs, and networking opportunities.