Colleges in California offering benefits for military dependents?

Hey all, my parents are vets and I'm currently in the process of looking for colleges. I was wondering if there are any specific colleges in California that provide benefits or assistance to military dependents? Any guidance would be much appreciated!

There are indeed several colleges in California that offer benefits to military dependents and veterans. One of the main benefits you might want to look out for is the Yellow Ribbon program. This program can make private and out-of-state institutions more affordable by providing additional funding beyond the Post-9/11 GI Bill, a fund that your parents can transfer to you.

1. University of Southern California (USC) - This university is a Yellow Ribbon School, which means it contributes a specific amount of aid towards tuition and fees that exceed the private tuition and fees cap of the GI Bill. The college is also home to the USC Veterans Resource Center which assists military-affiliated students with academic and career resources.

2. Stanford University - Stanford also participates in the Yellow Ribbon program. They provide a supportive community for military-affiliated students through the Office for Military-Affiliated Communities (OMAC), which aids in benefits certification, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

3. University of San Francisco (USF) - USF is another Yellow Ribbon school that provides support and services designed to meet the unique needs of active duty service members, veterans, and their families.

On the public side, the University of California (UC) and Cal State universities also provide tuition benefits and help for military dependents, including fee waivers in some cases. For example, UC San Diego has a Military-Connected Support Services office that promotes the retention and graduation of military-connected students through a host of services.

Lastly, the Community College system in California is a great and affordable option as well. Many community colleges have resources for veterans and their dependents—like counseling, dedicated study spaces, and special orientations. After two years you can transfer to a UC or Cal State and receive your bachelor’s degree. Many California Community Colleges take part in the Boots to Books transition course, which provides support for veterans and their family members in making the transition from the military to higher education.

Remember to check with each school's veteran services or financial aid office to know exactly what benefits they offer. Each institution may have its own requirements or processes. Don't forget to also fill out FAFSA as you may qualify for additional grants and financial aid! Good luck with your college search!