Inquiring about College Benefits for a Military Child

Hello, my parents are both active duty military. I've heard there could be benefits for kids like me when it comes to college. Anyone knows more about this and can guide me through what these benefits might be?

Hello! As a child of active-duty military members, indeed, you could have access to certain educational benefits.

1. Post 9/11 GI Bill Transferability: Active duty military parents who have served for at least six years can transfer their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a child, under certain conditions. These benefits can help cover tuition and fees, housing, and even provides a stipend for textbooks and supplies at many colleges.

2. Yellow Ribbon Program: If you qualify for the Post 9/11 GI Bill, you're also eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program. Participating schools contribute a certain amount to your education which the Department of Veterans Affairs matches, potentially covering all remaining tuition and fee expenses that the GI Bill doesn't cover.

3. Military Scholarships: There are numerous scholarships exclusively available to children of active duty military personnel. For example, the Military Officers Association of America offers scholarships and grants to children of its members. There is also the Scholarship for Military Children Program, funded through the commissaries' profits.

4. Service Academies and Senior Military Colleges: Service Academies (like West Point, Naval Academy) offer a free college education in return for a service commitment after graduation. Similarly, Senior Military Colleges offer ROTC programs and certain benefits if you choose a military career post-graduation.

5. State Benefits: Many states offer additional benefits, like tuition assistance or scholarships, for children of active-duty military. These often depend on your parents' state of legal residence, so you'll want to check those specifics.

Remember to reach out directly to the financial aid offices at the colleges you're interested in. They can provide more information on any military benefits they may offer. Reach out to the military base's education office as they often can help navigate these benefits. Good luck with your college search!