I'm a bit stressed out here, trying to understand the college process. My mom is in the military and I heard somewhere that there might be programs offering free tuition for dependents. Does anyone have any idea about this? Could use any advice on this topic.
Absolutely, there are indeed programs in place that can offer military dependents educational benefits, which can significantly reduce or even completely cover the cost of tuition.
One of the most notable programs is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Often used by veterans themselves, it can also be transferred to dependents, including children. The benefits from this program can cover the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public colleges for up to 36 months, or a significant portion of the tuition and fees at private or out-of-state schools. It also includes an annual book stipend. However, certain service requirements must be met for these benefits to be transferred.
Another program specific to certain states is the State Tuition Assistance Program. The availability and benefits provided from this program vary from state to state, so you'll need to look into the specific offerings in your state.
Lastly, there are numerous scholarship opportunities for military dependents, arranged by various organizations and foundations. While these may not totally eliminate tuition costs, they can certainly help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Before beginning the college application process, I'd strongly recommend looking into these benefits and understanding what might apply to your specific situation.
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