Scholarships for Kids in Military Families: How Do They Work?

Hey there, my parent has served in the military for quite some time and I've heard there are specific scholarships available for military family members. Anyone know how they work and where I'd find the details? I'm trying to fill out my financial aid platter—any input would help a lot!

Absolutely, there are indeed multiple scholarship programs available specifically catering to children of military service members. They typically work the same way as any other scholarship i.e., you apply and, if you're selected, you receive funds to go towards your educational expenses. The important bit is to be mindful of the eligibility criteria and the application deadlines, as they will vary from scholarship to scholarship.

Here are few examples:

1. Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Scholarship Fund: This fund offers interest-free loans, grants, and scholarships to children of active duty, retired, and deceased military personnel.

2. Army Scholarship Foundation: The Army Scholarship Foundation provides scholarships to children of current or former Army service members.

3. Scholarships for Military Children Program: This is offered by the Defense Commissary Agency and awards several $2,000 scholarships each year to military children who have a record of academic excellence and community service.

4. Anchor Scholarship Foundation: This provides scholarships to eligible family members (children and spouses) of active duty, retired, and honorably discharged Surface Navy personnel.

Keep in mind, it's not just the military-specific scholarships you should aim for. You should also look into the federal, state-sponsored, and college-specific scholarships. Also, make sure that you fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. Your Student Aid Index (SAI) determined by the FAFSA will influence your eligibility for many scholarships and grants.

Remember to stay organized and apply for as many relevant scholarships as possible. Every bit of financial assistance helps! Best of luck with your scholarship hunt!