Hey everyone, I come from a military family and looking into colleges in Alabama. I read somewhere that they offer military college assistance. Could someone shed some light on what exactly this is, its benefits, and how to access it? I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Absolutely, happy to help clarify this for you! Military college assistance is generally financial aid provided to students who are either serving in the military, have served, or are dependents of a member of the military.
In Alabama specifically, one program you might be eligible for is the Alabama GI Dependents' Scholarship Program. This program provides educational benefits to dependents (spouses and children) of disabled veterans or those listed as POWs or MIAs. The benefits cover tuition, as well as books and fees, at any Alabama state-supported institution. To apply, you would need to contact the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs.
Another possibility is the Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) Program, which can help cover tuition for eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. It's currently authorized at a rate of up to $250 per semester credit hour with an annual cap.
There are also federal benefits available to you if you're a military dependent or it you plan on enlisting. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, for instance, can pay up to the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public colleges, with a stipend for housing and books. This benefit can be transferred to dependents under certain circumstances.
Remember to check University-specific scholarships as well. Many universities offer scholarships specifically for military, veterans, and dependents of military personnel.
To understand which assistance you may qualify for, it's best to contact the financial aid office of the colleges you're interested in, and also reach out to the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs and even your high school counselor for more information and guidance.
Try not to feel overwhelmed, there are many resources available to help you navigate this process and ensure you receive the assistance you're eligible for.
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