So, as a military enlisted, I've heard that there are opportunities for financial aid or scholarships. What's the landscape for these kind of military assistance in college, and how does one apply?
Several programs exist to aid military members in paying for college. One such program is the Post 9/11 GI Bill, which helps pay for tuition and fees, provides a monthly housing allowance, and covers some books and supplies costs for service members who served on active duty for at least 90 days after September 10, 2001. Depending on your length of service, you could be eligible for up to 100% coverage of these costs. To apply, you can fill out an application for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs either online, in-person at a regional office, or through the mail.
For reservist members, the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) provides education assistance for those who were called or ordered to active service in response to a war or national emergency. The Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) program may also offer benefits if you're in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Reserve.
The Tuition Assistance (TA) program is available for active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members. This can cover up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing up to a certain value. The exact amount and policies can vary between different branches of the military.
Another option is the Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, that can help students attend expensive private schools at little or no cost. Schools voluntarily enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition costs above the national maximum per academic year for a private institution.
Lastly, military service members are eligible to apply for federal student aid in the same way as any other student, by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This could further augment the financial aids available to a military student.
It's always a good idea to reach out to the financial aid office of the school you plan to attend and, if applicable, the Education Officer in your military branch for guidance. They can give the most accurate information based on your unique circumstances and can guide you through the application process for each of these programs.
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