I'm a military kid and about to enter my senior year of high school, and I've been looking into my college options. Is there anyone here who grew up in a military family and can speak to their college experience, especially in terms of financial aid or scholarships?
It's great that you are seeking out opportunities for college financial assistance specifically designed for military families. As you may already know, there are many scholarships and other types of financial aid available to children of military service members.
The first place to look would be the GI Bill benefits, specifically the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This bill can offer full tuition coverage at in-state public schools and a stipend for housing and books. If your parent has served on active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, you might be eligible for these benefits as they can be transferred to dependents.
Another significant scholarship you could explore is the Military Child Program (MCP) Scholarship. It's sponsored by the Fisher House Foundation and is specifically for children of active duty, reserve/guard, or retired military commissary customers.
The American Legion provides various scholarships to military children, including the Legacy Scholarship and the Samsung American Legion Scholarship.
Furthermore, specific branches of the military, such as the Army, have scholarship opportunities like the Army ROTC Scholarships available to dependents of Army servicemen/women.
Lastly, schools themselves often have loyalty scholarships for military families. Check with the financial aid offices of the schools you're interested in to see if they have such offerings.
Keep in mind that these scholarships often have unique requirements and deadlines, so make sure to stay organized in your application process. Every bit helps when it comes to funding your education!
Remember, you should also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) just like any other potential college student. This will open you up to additional federal, state, and school-based financial aid options.
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