Hey guys, I'm about to start figuring out the whole college application thing, and I've seen a bit about potential funding for dependents of service members. Could anyone give me a rundown of that? Or point me to some good resources?
Sure, you're certainly not the only one with this question! As a dependent of a military service member, you have several options for financial aid aimed specifically at families like yours.
1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: Military members who have served at least 90 days on active duty since Sept. 10, 2001, are eligible for benefits under this funding source. These benefits may also be transferred to dependents.
2. Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA): If you are the child of a Veteran who is permanently disabled due to a service-related condition, or who died in service or from a service-related condition, you might be eligible for this program. It offers up to 45 months of education benefits.
3. State-Specific Benefits: Many states have their own programs. For instance, the State of California offers a College Tuition Fee Waiver for the dependents of veterans.
4. Scholarships: There are also a wealth of scholarships geared towards dependents of military service members, from branch-specific awards to those offered by private organizations. An example is the Scholarship for Military Children Program provided by Commissary, which awards scholarships annually to dependents of active duty or retired service members.
When looking for more resources, Military OneSource is a comprehensive directory of all things relating to military service, including education benefits. You can access an extensive list of scholarships and other types of financial aid on their site and sort it based on your eligibility.
Remember, when applying for any type of financial aid, it's important to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will not only help you qualify for federal aid, but many of these programs and scholarships may also require it as part of their application process.
Lastly, reach out to the financial aid office at schools you're considering—they would be well aware of the resources available to you as a service member's dependent. They can provide valuable guidance on funding your education.
Best of luck with your college application journey, and kudos to you for proactively seeking out funding sources!
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