Child Utilizing Military Parent's College Benefits?

Hi, my parents served in the military and I'm curious about any possible college benefits I could access due to their service? Are there any specific programs or scholarships I should be looking into?

There are indeed certain benefits available to children of military members. One of the most significant offerings is the Department of Veteran Affairs' Post-9/11 GI Bill, which allows military members to transfer unused education benefits to their dependents. If your parents served on active duty for at least 36 months after September 10, 2001, and are still on active duty or were honorably discharged, it might be possible for you to receive these benefits.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover tuition and fees for in-state students at public colleges or a set annual maximum amount for private colleges. Additionally, it provides a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.

To be eligible to transfer benefits to you, your parent had to have served at least 6 years in the military and commit to serving 4 more years or have served at least 10 years. You will want to check with your parent’s branch of service and the VA for full details.

In addition to the GI Bill, there are several scholarships specifically for military dependents, like the Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program, the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship, and the American Legion Legacy Scholarship amongst others.

Finally, remember to check each college's policy for military-dependent financial aid. Some schools offer tuition discounts or specific scholarships for students whose parents are, or were, in the military. Every institution will have different benefits, so ensure you contact each university's financial aid office for more details.

It's a good idea to explore all these avenues thoroughly to understand what fits your situation best.