It’s no secret that college costs are skyrocketing. The average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year public college has increased by more than 250% in the past 30 years. And at private colleges, the cost has increased by more than 150%.
This has made it increasingly difficult for families to afford college. And for military families, the cost of college can be even more daunting.
Military families often have to relocate frequently, which can make it difficult for students to stay in the same school district and maintain their academic progress. They may also have to deal with the stress of a parent being deployed to a war zone.
All of these factors can make it difficult for military kids to succeed in college. But there are a number of programs available to help military kids get the financial assistance they need to pay for college.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill®
The Post-9/11 GI Bill® is a federal program that provides financial assistance to veterans and their families. The program covers the cost of tuition and fees, as well as a monthly housing allowance and a book stipend.
To be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, you must have served at least 90 days of active duty after September 11, 2001. You must also have been discharged from the military with an honorable discharge.
The Montgomery GI Bill®
The Montgomery GI Bill® is another federal program that provides financial assistance to veterans and their families. The program covers the cost of tuition and fees, as well as a monthly housing allowance.
To be eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill®, you must have served at least two years of active duty or six years of Selected Reserve service. You must also have been discharged from the military with an honorable discharge.
The Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and colleges and universities. The program provides financial assistance to veterans and their families who are attending college at a private institution.
To be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program, you must be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill® or the Montgomery GI Bill®. You must also be attending a college or university that participates in the program.
State and Local Programs
Many states and localities also offer financial assistance to military kids. These programs can vary widely, so it’s important to check with your state or local government to see what programs are available.
How to Apply for Financial Assistance
To apply for financial assistance, you will need to contact the VA. The VA will provide you with an application form and instructions on how to complete it.
Once you have completed the application, you will need to submit it to the VA. The VA will process your application and determine if you are eligible for benefits.
If you are a military kid, there are a number of programs available to help you pay for college. These programs can provide you with financial assistance, as well as other benefits such as tutoring and counseling.
Table 1: Post-9/11 GI Bill® Benefits
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | Up to the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at a public college or university |
| Monthly Housing Allowance | Based on the BAH rates for your location and family size |
| Book Stipend | Up to $1,000 per year |
Table 2: Montgomery GI Bill® Benefits
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | Up to $22,800 for a four-year college or university |
| Monthly Housing Allowance | Based on the BAH rates for your location and family size |
Table 3: Yellow Ribbon Program Benefits
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | Up to the full cost of tuition and fees at a private college or university |
| Monthly Housing Allowance | Based on the BAH rates for your location and family size |
Table 4: State and Local Programs
| State | Program | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| California | Cal Grant Program | Grants and scholarships for students with financial need |
| Florida | Bright Futures Scholarship Program | Scholarships for students with high academic achievement |
| Texas | Hazlewood Act | Tuition waivers for veterans and their families |
FAQs
Q: Are there any other programs available to help military kids pay for college?
A: Yes, there are a number of private organizations that offer scholarships and grants to military kids. You can find a list of these organizations on the VA website.
Q: What if I don’t qualify for any of these programs?
A: There are still a number of ways to make college more affordable. You can look for colleges and universities that offer low tuition rates. You can also apply for financial aid from the federal government.
Q: How do I apply for financial aid?
A: You can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can find the FAFSA on the Federal Student Aid website.
Q: What is the deadline to apply for financial aid?
A: The deadline to apply for financial aid is June 30th. However, you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.