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A Guest Post By Henry Thompson of Degree Jungle
The cost of living increases each year, include college expenses. For many people with a low income, the possibility of having a college education may be out of reach, unless they get financial aid of one kind or another. For people serving in the army, the chance of getting financial aid increases, since the government is doing their best to help children from military families advance in their education. If you or a member of your family serve in the military, read on – as you may be qualified for some wonderful scholarships and loans that can help you pay off all your college expenses.
Post 9/11 GI Bill
The Post 9/11 GI Bill is transferable to one’s dependents in certain circumstances. To be qualified for the GI Bill, you must enroll in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System. Since each year the requirements vary greatly, you should read the requirements carefully before applying for this program.
National Military Family Association Scholarship
If your husband or wife is in the military force, you are eligible for the National Military Family Association scholarship. The scholarship award amount is $1,000. Application is fairly simple: an essay relating to life in the military and a proof of military service (valid military ID). This scholarship accepts applications from spouses of people serving in branches of military service.
My Career Advancement Account
Again, My Career Advancement Account is a program for military spouses. The program can award up to $6,000 to eligible spouses of military personnel to pursue their education goals. The spouse must be accepted into an approved college, training program or technical school before they could apply for this program.
Commissary scholarships
The commissary scholarships are available to children of military families. The applicant must compose an essay as part of the application. The amount of award varies depending on the quality of the essay.
Education center
Each military post has its own education center where military personnel and their dependents can get help with education options. The education center is a place for you to get information about scholarships and grants available to military dependents. The staff at the center will also help you learn how to prepare for the SAT or any other standardized tests. It is the place you should resource first when you want to search for grants and scholarships for military families. Many spouse clubs and family readiness groups have full scholarships for their members.
Emergency relief scholarships
Use this type of scholarship if you are in need of emergency cash. Every military post has its own emergency relief agency. The agency will raise money through donations to help military families in an emergency situation. They also offer financial aid to military families pursuing college education.
Above are some prominent programs and scholarships to help military families pursue higher education. You should spend time researching for more scholarships and grants to lower your college expenses as much as possible. Hard work always pays off in the end.
Mitch Franklin is a freelance writer and contributor to DegreeJungle.com, a resource for college students. He is interested in helping you save money on college.
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Regarding MYCAA – The program actually cut their budget a couple of years ago. They only offer up to $4,000 now, and is only offered to spouses married to an E1-5, O1-2, and WO1-2.
Thanks Noel, very helpful info!