Grants for Military Dependents - How does it work?

My mom recently retired from the military and I'm about to start my college applications. I've been told there are grants available for military dependents. What do these grants cover and how can I apply?

Military dependents indeed have several options to receive educational grants and scholarships, which can considerably subsidize the cost of college.

An important resource that you should consider exploring is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It might seem like it's for veterans, but military members can actually transfer some or all of their benefits to their children. This program can cover up to the full amount of in-state tuition and fees at public colleges, or a set amount per academic year for private or foreign schools. Additionally, you may receive a housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.

If your mother was injured or fell in the line of duty, you could also be eligible for the Fry Scholarship, which offers similar benefits to the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Another program is the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, also known as Chapter 35 benefits. This program offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents, and the assistance might extend to degree and certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. If you qualify for both Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA) and the Fry Scholarship, you’ll have to pick one or the other when you apply. After you’ve made this decision, you can’t switch.

Applying for military-dependent scholarships generally involves filling out the needed paperwork, showing proof of your relationship with the service member (like a military-dependent ID), and often writing an essay.

You might also consider applying for scholarships specifically designed for military dependents. The Scholarships for Military Children Program, for instance, offers $2,000 scholarships to dependents. One thing to remember, though, is that applying for these resources is very competitive, so it's beneficial to start your applications as soon as possible. Comparatively, unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid, which makes them a valuable source of funding for your education. On a final note, while many resources exist on a national level, remember to also look into state and local opportunities. Different states have educational benefits for dependents of veterans, and local organizations often have scholarships as well. As for your next steps, reach out to your school's financial aid office or your local VA representative. They can guide you through these different programs and the application process.