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Top 76 Scholarships for Veterans in May 2024

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

Learn about our editorial policies

If you are a military veteran or active duty, you may be eligible for scholarships and grants! Scholarships for veterans can include specific scholarships for military veterans, active duty members of the armed services, and also children and spouses of veterans.

Veterans may also qualify for other benefits from the federal government such as the GI Bill. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about financial aid and scholarships for military veterans.

Why choose Scholarships360

We helped over 4 million students find scholarships in 2023

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The Scholarships360 Research Team reviews all scholarships individually and strives to exclude any scholarship where any of the below applies:

• The scholarship requires a fee to apply
• The scholarship provider’s privacy policy allows for the misuse of student data
• The scholarship requires paid membership in an organization (with certain exceptions for reputable trade organizations and others)
• Student are required to sign up for a site or service to apply*
• The scholarship seems primarily used for lead generation** or idea harvesting purposes***
• The scholarship website has many grammatical errors and/or advertisements
• The scholarship or scholarship providing organization seem untrustworthy
• There is no evidence the scholarship was previously awarded
• The scholarship has not been awarded in the past 12 months
• There is no available contact information

If you believe a scholarship has been published in error, please reach out to [email protected] and we’ll take a look!

* There are certain exceptions to this, for example if the sponsoring organization is a major corporation or nonprofit with its own scholarship application system. ** Lead generation scholarships will require students to sign up for an app or website and require minimal (if any) application requirements. ***Idea harvesting scholarships will require students to submit blog posts or other materials that companies may use for marketing purposes.

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$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Scholarships360

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high… Show More

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high school student who hopes to go to college, a graduate student who’s in a master’s program, or an adult learner who wants to return to school, you are eligible for our no essay scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to students who get the most out of Scholarships360 scholarships and content. You will be a strong applicant if you apply to scholarships with the Scholarships360 platform. Finalists for this scholarship will be interviewed about their process for funding their education. Show Less

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Sallie Mae

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for school.

Bernard Rotberg Memorial Grant

Offered by Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America

The Bernard Rotberg Memorial Grant is available to direct descendants of Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America members in good standing. If… Show More

The Bernard Rotberg Memorial Grant is available to direct descendants of Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America members in good standing. If the member has passed away, they must have been in good standing at the time of their death. All members, including posthumous, must have joined before the January 1st three years prior to the year of the application deadline. To apply, send your application to the appropriate Department Commander, and keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

$40,000 Build a College List Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by The College Board

Create a college list with six schools you're considering - no minimum GPA or essay required!

United State Army Warrant Officers Association Scholarship Foundation Program

Offered by United States Army Warrant Officers Association

The United States Army Warrant Officers Association Scholarship Foundation Program is an incredible opportunity for USAWOA members and their families to receive financial assistance for… Show More

The United States Army Warrant Officers Association Scholarship Foundation Program is an incredible opportunity for USAWOA members and their families to receive financial assistance for higher education. The Foundation's mission is to ensure that those who dedicate their lives to defending our country can provide their loved ones with the opportunity to pursue formal higher education. If you're under 23 years old and the child, grandchild, or dependent stepchild of a USAWOA member in good standing, or the spouse of a member in good standing, you're eligible to apply. To qualify, you must be in your senior year of high school or higher and plan to attend an accredited American college/university or a vocational/technical institution on a full-time basis. Don't miss out on this chance to secure a sound financial future for yourself and your family! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

Niche $25,000 “No Essay” Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Niche

Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year!

Max R. and Irene Rubenstein Memorial Grant

The Max R. and Irene Rubenstein Memorial Grant is a scholarship opportunity for veterans who have served in the U.S. Army. To be considered, applicants… Show More

The Max R. and Irene Rubenstein Memorial Grant is a scholarship opportunity for veterans who have served in the U.S. Army. To be considered, applicants must submit an essay between 400 to 500 words, written in English on an 8-and-a-half by 11-inch paper. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of honorable military service, such as a copy of a DD-214 or military ID card. To submit your application, please include the subject line "National Achievement Program" when emailing your packet. Don't miss out on this chance to receive the Max R. and Irene Rubenstein Memorial Grant! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

Charles Kosmutza Memorial Grants

Introducing the Charles Kosmutza Memorial Grants - a scholarship opportunity that welcomes current service members and veterans who are currently attending OR plan to attend… Show More

Introducing the Charles Kosmutza Memorial Grants - a scholarship opportunity that welcomes current service members and veterans who are currently attending OR plan to attend an accredited Graduate Level degree program! Submit an essay between 400 and 500 words, typed on an 8 and a half by 11 inch paper in English. Don't forget to include a proof of honorable military service, such as a copy of a DD-214 or military ID card. Email your application packet with the subject line "National Achievement Program" to apply. Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Bold.org

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

101st Airborne Division Association Chappie Hall Scholarship Program

Offered by 101st Airborne Division Association

The 101st Airborne Division Association Chappie Hall Scholarship Program is a fantastic opportunity for students who have the potential to become valuable assets to our… Show More

The 101st Airborne Division Association Chappie Hall Scholarship Program is a fantastic opportunity for students who have the potential to become valuable assets to our nation. To be eligible, applicants must have a parent, grandparent, or spouse who was a regular member of the 101st Airborne Division Association in good standing. The financial assistance provided by this scholarship may vary in the dollar amount and number of awards granted, by year. Don't miss out on this incredible chance to make your dreams a reality! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

Screaming Eagle Surviving Children’s Scholarship

The Screaming Eagle Surviving Children's Scholarship is a funding opportunity for dependent children of Soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division and Fort Campbell units who… Show More

The Screaming Eagle Surviving Children's Scholarship is a funding opportunity for dependent children of Soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division and Fort Campbell units who have been killed or severely wounded since September 11, 2001 in the Global War on Terror. The scholarship, offered in partnership with the Patriot Foundation, provides secondary education and future use scholarship opportunities to help these children achieve their academic goals. If this sounds like a good opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

$10,000 CollegeXpress Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by CollegeXpress

Annual $10k scholarship from CollegeXpress open to all high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors.

Doctors Network Army Scholarship

Offered by Doctors Network

Are you an undergraduate student in the United States who (1) is an active or former member of the United States Army OR (2) has… Show More

Are you an undergraduate student in the United States who (1) is an active or former member of the United States Army OR (2) has at least one parent or spouse who is an active or former member of the United States Army? If so, you may be eligible for the Doctors Network Army Scholarship! Each year, the scholarship awards $1,000 to multiple students who submit the best 500-1,000-word essay "describing what [they] intend to do after graduation, and how [they] plan on giving back to your community." If you or your parent has served in the U.S. Army and you are enrolled in an undergraduate program in the U.S., we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

Atmosfy Veteran Scholarship

Offered by Atmosfy Inc.

Have you served in the Armed Services, either on Active Duty, National Guard, or in the Reserve, and are currently pursuing a technology-related field in… Show More

Have you served in the Armed Services, either on Active Duty, National Guard, or in the Reserve, and are currently pursuing a technology-related field in the United States? If so, consider applying for the Atmosfy Veteran Scholarship! Each year, the scholarship awards $1,000 to one veteran who is pursuing a career in technology. To apply, interested students must answer a few open-ended questions about why they want to pursue technology, why supporting local businesses is important to them, and how "Atmosfy is uniquely prepared to help [them] transition into technology." If this sounds like a good opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

$1,000 Appily Easy College Money Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Appily

This easy scholarship from Appily is open to U.S. high school students (Class of 2025, 2026, 2027) and college transfer students. One scholarship will be… Show More

This easy scholarship from Appily is open to U.S. high school students (Class of 2025, 2026, 2027) and college transfer students. One scholarship will be awarded each month. Show Less

Clifford Lee Kristal Education Grant

The Clifford Lee Kristal Education Grant is awarded to the direct descendants (children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren) of a member in good standing of the Jewish War… Show More

The Clifford Lee Kristal Education Grant is awarded to the direct descendants (children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren) of a member in good standing of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America. If an applicant's relative is deceased, the member must have been in good standing at the time of his/her death. All members (including Posthumous) must have joined at least three (3) years ago. The application should be mailed to the appropriate Department Commander. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to receive funding for your post-secondary education. Keep on reading to learn more! Show Less

Gamewardens of Vietnam Scholarship

Offered by Gamewardens of Vietnam Association Inc.

The Gamewardens of Vietnam Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for incoming freshmen who are descendants of U.S. Navy men and women who worked with TF-116… Show More

The Gamewardens of Vietnam Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for incoming freshmen who are descendants of U.S. Navy men and women who worked with TF-116 in Vietnam. This one-time award is open to sons, daughters, and grandchildren of Gamewardens members, with the possibility of reapplication. To qualify, applicants must be a child, stepchild, grandchild, or great-grandchild of a life member of the Gamewardens of Viet Nam Association. Life members will have served with Task Force-116 in the Republic of Viet Nam or as Special Warfare Combatant Crewmen serving with Special Warfare Boat units. Don't miss out on this chance to honor your family's legacy and further your education! Show Less

$5,000 Christian Connector Scholarship This scholarship has been verified by the scholarship providing organization.

Offered by Christian Connector

Students applying to the $5,000 Christian Connector Scholarship must be current high school students (Class of 2025, 2026, or 2027) interested in attending a Christian…

Students applying to the $5,000 Christian Connector Scholarship must be current high school students (Class of 2025, 2026, or 2027) interested in attending a Christian university or college.

Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program

Offered by Maryland Higher Education Commission

The Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program is an opportunity for high school seniors, current undergraduates, and graduate students in Maryland to earn funding toward… Show More

The Edward T. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program is an opportunity for high school seniors, current undergraduates, and graduate students in Maryland to earn funding toward their postsecondary education. To be eligible, applicants must be: (1) the immediate family member of a member of the US Armed Forces who died or suffered a 100% permanent disability due to military service, (2) veterans with a service-connected disability of 25% or greater, (3) the children and spouses of victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, (4) the children and surviving spouses of State or local public safety employees who died or were disabled in the line of duty, or (5) the immediate relatives of school employees who, as a result of an act of violence, either died in the line of duty or sustained an injury in the line of duty that rendered the school employee 100% disabled. Maryland residency is required, except for public safety employees and their relatives. Keep on reading to learn more. Show Less

Flatiron School Access Scholarship

Offered by Flatiron School

Are you attending the Flatiron School and are from an underrepresented community or background? If so, consider applying for the Flatiron School Access Scholarship! The… Show More

Are you attending the Flatiron School and are from an underrepresented community or background? If so, consider applying for the Flatiron School Access Scholarship! The scholarship is open to underrepresented students enrolled in a Flatiron School program who are looking for financial assistance to afford their schooling costs. Eligible applicants include women, underrepresented minorities, people with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ students, and low-income students. Through the Access scholarship, the Flatiron School hopes to provide opportunities for students who are motivated despite the challenges they face. Thus, every year, select scholarship applicants are chosen to earn up to $5,000 to help cover tuition for full-time programs. If you are a Flatiron School student from an underrepresented community, we encourage you to apply! Show Less

Jump ahead to:

• How to win veteran scholarships

Resources for veterans

• Guide to the GI Bill

Yellow Ribbon Program

• Frequently asked questions

Explore these other scholarship categories

How to win veteran scholarships .

Going back to school isn’t an easy decision, especially when it often comes with a price tag. Fortunately, there are a lot of scholarships out there for veterans, and all you have to do is apply for them. Discussing how your service has empowered you or including a resume detailing the skills you learned can be the key to setting yourself apart. Fighting for your country was the first step, now you have to follow up with fighting for yourself and your education. 

Find out more tips for your scholarship application with these resources:

• Writing your scholarship essay
• Avoiding scholarship scams
• Responding to “Why do you deserve this scholarship?” prompts

National Association of American Veterans

This organization is focused on giving back to the veterans that have served this country. The National Association of American Veterans offer several initiatives, one of them being sponsorship for ACT and SAT preparatory programs . Even going the extra mile to volunteer for societies and organizations like this one can prove to scholarship reviewers that you’re serious about this cause and set you apart from other applicants. 

The American Legion

The American Legion is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans and their families through mentorship, advocacy, and support. They offer scholarships and programs, such as the Legion Riders and the Legacy Scholarship , to ensure veterans are taken care of on the homefront. 

Disabled American Veterans

Getting help from organizations like the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) can take a big load off of your shoulders. DAV offers services and opportunities to veterans young and old to receive benefits and transition into their next phase of life. This organization also hosts job fairs for veterans and free transportation to and from doctor’s appointments. Volunteers are also encouraged, and some of the benefits DAV offers even extend to family members!

The GI Bill helps veterans and active duty service people pay for school. If you have served on active duty after September 10, 2001, you may qualify for the educational benefits!

Notably, the GI Bill may cover the cost of public, in-state tuition and fees. The GI Bill rates for private and foreign colleges and universities is capped (this cap changes from year to year). The GI Bill also provides students with money for housing, books, supplies, and even moving expenses if they are moving from a rural part of the country.

You can learn more about the GI Bill through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

The Yellow Ribbon Program is another financial aid program that the Department of Veterans Affairs runs. This program helps veterans pay for certain types of education that the Post-9/11 GI Bill that we discussed above does not cover. This includes out-of-state higher education, private school, or graduate school tuition. Students must ensure that their college or university participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. Check whether you are eligible to apply for the Yellow Ribbon Program, and use this tool to see which institutions are Yellow Ribbon partners.

Frequently asked questions about scholarships for veterans

Are there grants for veterans applying for college, are there other scholarships that veterans can apply for.

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Foundation Scholarships

Our VUF Scholars

Army Veteran and recent Harvard grad works to end HIV/AIDS epidemic after overcoming traumatic brain injury

About The Scholarship

The Veterans United Foundation Scholarship creates opportunities for family members of service members and Veterans to achieve their educational dreams. Launched in 2012, the scholarship program is funded by contributions from Veterans United Home Loans and its employees. Since our scholarship program was created, over $1 MILLION has been awarded to support the educational dreams of military families across the U.S.

Scholarship Timeline

The Veterans United Foundation Scholarship is available each year. Use this handy timeline to stay on top of deadlines this year or start preparations for the next application period.

2024 Application Period

Fri, March 1st - Sun, March 31st

This application period has closed.

Eligibility

To qualify for the scholarship program, you must meet one of the following conditions:

• The applicant is a veteran with 100% service connected disability
• The applicant is a surviving spouse of a deceased servicemember from a service-related death
• The applicant is a surviving child of a deceased servicemember from a service-related death

Other Requirements

• Currently enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college or university for the upcoming semester
• Pursuing an associate's, bachelor's, graduate, post-graduate or doctoral degree
• Comfortable with sharing personal stories and aspirations with Veterans United Foundation
• Deceased parent or spouse's military documents (DD214 and death certificate /or DD1300)
• Official benefit letter showing disability rating (if applicable)
• Full FAFSA submission
• Proof of enrollment from your accredited college or university
• Government-issued photo ID
• Able to provide Veterans United Foundation with receipts or invoices related to eligible educational costs as they are incurred in order to receive payment. Eligible costs include tuition, books, fees, school materials and some aspects of room and board as determined by Veterans United Foundation.
• Candidates may be required to complete a background check

Awards will be granted based on the following criteria:

Share your story of how your military service or losing your spouse/parent affected you. Explain who you are, where your life has taken you, and what you hope to pursue through your college education and beyond.

Determined by the Veterans United Foundation awards team and based on full FAFSA submission.

Your community, church, athletic and school involvement or achievements, plus anything else you would like to have considered (may include photos, drawings, poems, writings, etc.).

Strong Partnerships That Make A Difference

• The YMCA - Armed Services YMCA
• Boot Campaign
• Boulder Crest Retreat
• Gary Sinise Foundation
• Welcome Home

See all of our amazing partners →

Veterans & Family Scholarship

About the scholarship.

The Veterans & Family Scholarship is available to underserved students who are military veterans or families of veterans. Students seeking an associate, bachelor's, or graduate degree in education or a STEAM field are welcome to apply.

• Essay Required : No
• Need-Based : Yes
• Merit-Based : Yes
• Armed service veteran or their family
• Minimum 3.00 GPA
• Residing in the United States
• Seeking an associate, bachelor's, or graduate degree
• Studying for a degree in education or a STEAMrelated field
• Historically underserved population
• Participate in community service, extracurricular activities, or employed
• Demonstrate financial need
• Country : US

Google Student Veterans of America Scholarship

Application process

Terms & conditions.

As part of our commitment to military veterans, Google established the Google SVA Scholarship in partnership with Student Veterans of America . The scholarship provides assistance to student veterans who are pursuing university degrees in the field of computer science in the U.S. Selected students will receive 10,000 USD for the 2024-2025 school year.

Who can apply?

To be eligible to apply, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate at a college or university
• Intend to be enrolled in or accepted as a full-time student at a university in the United States for the 2024-2025 academic year
• Maintain a strong academic performance
• Pursuing a computer science or computer engineering degree, or a degree in a closely related technical field
• A current student veteran (includes members of the National Guard or Reserve) as proven by a DD-214 and transcript, or a student on Active Duty as proven by submission of Active Duty orders and a Memorandum of Understanding from your commanding officer indicating that you are currently in good standing with your unit and transcript
• Has received an honorable discharge, or is in good standing with his/her branch of service

You will be asked to complete an online application through Student Veterans of America which includes:

• General background information (e.g. contact information and details about your current and intended universities)
• Academic transcripts from your current and prior institutions (if you have earned a prior degree)
• DD Form 2-14 Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214), or Active Duty orders and a Memorandum of Understanding from your commanding officer that you are currently in good standing with your unit
• One letter of reference from a professor, instructor, adviser or supervisor
• Responses to short essay questions

Recipients will be selected based on the overall strength of their essays and application materials compared to the entire applicant pool.

Application deadline: Tuesday, April 23, 2024

SVA administers the Google SVA Scholarship. Please see SVA's website for complete information on the scholarship. Google may retain anonymized versions of application submissions as a reference for future scholarship review.

Still have questions?

Submit your question to SVA here .

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Scholarships for Veterans

Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated September 15, 2023

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Veterans looking to continue their education and further their careers have many options for scholarships and financial aid.

First-generation college students who have served in the military can apply for scholarships available to first-time enrollees. Scholarships for disabled veterans, members of minority groups, and veterans who served in a specific branch of the armed forces offer additional funding opportunities.

Many private companies and community organizations also offer scholarships for veterans. State, local, and school-specific programs for veterans provide another avenue for scholarships and grants. Veterans can apply for scholarships and grants based on their field of study, degree level, and future professional goals. For the latter, students may need to agree to work within specific settings after graduation as a condition of the grant or scholarship.

Spouses and dependents of active-duty or retired military personnel can often access scholarship and grant options, as well. Many of these programs support wives, husbands, children, and grandchildren of living or deceased military members.

Where To Look

Veterans can access information about scholarships through college and university financial aid and admissions offices, which usually have abundance resources about funding opportunities. Learners should also contact specific departments to see if discipline-specific scholarships are available.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also offers comprehensive information on education and training benefits available to veterans. Many websites offer databases of scholarship options, which users can filter to find financial aid opportunities to specific to their personal situations. Scholarship indices and websites for individual branches of the armed forces also offer valuable resources.

How To Apply

Application requirements and processes vary by grant and scholarship program. Students should apply to as many scholarships as possible, paying attention to due dates and award announcements.

Most veteran scholarships require applicants to submit transcripts from previous college coursework, documentation of military service, and any training materials completed while in the military.

Scholarships usually have a written component as well, in the form of a formal essay or personal statement. Some schools may include specific essay prompts, while others require a personal essay, which involves an open and honest discussion of what the applicant hopes to get out of their studies.

Additional requirements usually include letters of recommendation and a resume. Students should prepare materials well in advance, contacting potential letter writers and references to ensure their support and availability.

Some scholarships stipulate how learners can apply funding, limiting it to covering tuition, fees, or education-related costs. Others have broader criteria, allowing awardees to apply funds toward housing or living expenses.

Veteran Scholarships

Eligibility requirements, deadlines, award amounts, and renewal options all factor into the scholarship application process. The list of popular military and veteran scholarships below offers a starting point for finding available funding opportunities. Students can also benefit from additional research into veteran scholarships that meet their specific needs and circumstances.

General Scholarships

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AFCEA War Veterans Scholarship

Amvets scholarship, army nurse corps association scholarship, bonsai finance veterans scholarship, boundless opportunity scholarship, ctu patriot scholarship, dr. aurelio m. caccomo family foundation memorial scholarship, dr. robert w. and jean l. sheldon scholarship, ed "chief" parsons memorial scholarship, edna m. humphrey engineering scholarship, education connection's military scholarship, lint center scholarships, michael and candy yakimo scholarship, raytheon patriot scholarship, nbcc foundation military scholarship, patriot scholarship, posse veterans program, roberta derr education scholarship, the graydon and myrth fox scholarship, the jack e. barger, sr. memorial nursing scholarship fund, tillman scholar program, troops to teachers, veterans united scholarship, vfw's sport clips help a hero scholarship, disabled veteran scholarships, liberty university's heroes fund scholarship, paralyzed veterans of america educational scholarship program, yellow ribbon program, frequently asked questions, does the department of veterans affairs offer scholarships.

The VA does not offer scholarships. Educational benefits provided through the VA include the GI Bill�, educational and career counseling, and debt management assistance.

Do Veterans Qualify for Pell Grants?

Veterans qualify for Pell Grants if they meet income requirements. To receive a Pell Grant, veterans must pursue degrees from accredited institutions and reapply each year.

Can Disabled Veterans Go to College for Free?

Some states offer free college for veterans and their dependents. For example, in Washington , veterans may receive partial or full tuition remittance at state community colleges, colleges, or universities. Dependents of disabled veterans can also apply for tuition and fee waivers.

Wisconsin offers its own GI Bill� to cover tuition and fees for eligible veterans and their dependents, while South Dakota supports disabled veterans who take undergraduate classes from colleges and universities funded by the state.

Does the GI Bill� Cover Four Years of College?

The GI Bill� covers 36 months of college or technical education. Students can apply their GI Bill� funds toward public in-state tuition and fees. Veterans enrolled at private or international institutions receive a capped amount of funding.

Additional funds provided through the GI Bill� include a monthly housing allowance, money for books and supplies, and a one-time payment to facilitate moving from a rural area to attend a college or university.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the VA. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ .

Image Credit: SDI Productions | Getty Images

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ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS

Stay Up to Date

Who is Eligible?

The Tillman Scholar program is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

• Veteran and active duty military service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces including the National Guard who have served in both pre-and post-9/11 eras.
• Current Spouses of veteran or active service members, including surviving spouses

Spouses, veterans and service members who apply must be a full-time* student pursuing one of the following degrees at a public or private, U.S.-based, accredited institution for the upcoming fall/spring academic year:

• An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s or above) 
• A graduate or professional degree  
• You do not need to be attending a University Partnered school to apply. See video in regards to the University Partnered vs At-Large process for more information.

*full-time as determined by the institution and program of study to which an applicant is applying

• Child dependents are not eligible to apply
• Cadets/current ROTC participants with a future service commitment are not eligible to apply
• Although we greatly appreciate the critical service rendered by members of the U.S. Public Health Service, First Responders (to include Law Enforcement personnel), and the Intelligence Community, members of those services who are not military veterans, service members, or spouses of military veterans/service members are not eligible to apply to be Tillman Scholars
• Scholarships are awarded for the upcoming fall/spring academic year, not the current academic year. Scholarships are not retroactive for completed courses.

Strong applicants for this military scholarship demonstrate clear academic goals, extraordinary leadership potential and a deep desire to create positive change. They believe their best years of service to our country are still ahead of them, and they are committed to strengthening communities at home and around the world.

For additional eligibility information please watch this short video.

Applicants will be required to submit the following items:

• Current resume
• Two 400-word essay questions
• Please note, this is not a letter of recommendation. This third party will answer specific questions through our application tool.
• A 250-word biography
• Completed FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and a financial worksheet that includes current budget of all expenses and incomes for household, to include all military benefits.
• Completed Student Aid Report (SAR) generated through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Two photos from military service or with their spouse who is/was in the military
• Proof of Military Service: most recent DD 214 (Member 4 preferred), Officer Record Brief, Enlistment Record Brief, Basic Individual Record, Personal Data Record, Performance Summary Record, or Report on Individual Personnel, Employee Summary Sheet, Single Unit Retrieval Format
• Permission for PTF to complete a background check

For tips on applying, check out the PTF Blog for our scholar’s advice on the process.

Can a Tillman Scholar Award be Renewed?

Annual funding renewability will be considered for Tillman Scholars based on:

• Meeting the expected graduation date
• Proof of full-time student status and a minimum 3.0 GPA earned
• Engagement with the Tillman Scholar community
• Documented participation in service
• Accountability for use of scholarship funds

Military scholarship funding can only be used toward a single, post-secondary degree.

JOIN THE TILLMAN SCHOLAR APPLICATION MAILING LIST

Be the first to know about Tillman Scholar application updates, information sessions, and more. Join our mailing list and receive updates exclusively about the Tillman Scholar application.

Google SVA Scholarship

Google and SVA award eight $10,000 scholarships annually to students studying computer science and related majors.

Application Open: March 26, 2024 – April 23, 2024

Investing in Student Veteran Innovation

As part of Google’s commitment to military veterans, the company partners with SVA each year to fund scholarships. The scholarship provides assistance to student veterans who are pursuing university degrees in the field of computer science in the U.S. Selected students will receive $10,000 for the upcoming school year.

Eligibility

Student veterans must meet the following criteria to apply for the Google SVA Scholarship:

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate at a university for the 2024-2025 academic year or intend to be enrolled in or accepted as a full-time student at a university in the United States for the 2024-2025 academic year.
• Maintaining a strong academic performance.
• Pursuing a Computer Science or Computer Engineering degree, or a degree in a closely related technical field*.
• Must be a current student veteran (includes members of the National Guard or Reserve) as proven by a DD- 214 and transcript, or a student on Active Duty as proven by submission of Active Duty orders and a Memorandum of Understanding from your commanding officer indicating that you are currently in good standing with your unit and transcript.
• Has received an honorable discharge or is in good standing with his/her branch of service.

Related Technical Fields may include:

• Software Engineering
• Electrical Engineering (with a heavy computer science course load)
• Computer Engineering
• Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Applied Networking
• Systems administration

Related Technical Fields do not include:

• Civil, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering

Students must submit a complete application, including:

• A current copy of a resume or CV
• An unofficial copy of current university transcripts
• Two letters of reference from a professor, adviser or supervisor
• Responses to essay questions

Essay Questions (500 words each):

• Please give us one example of how you have exhibited leadership. Explain what you were trying to achieve, your role, how you influenced others, and the impact as a result of your actions. Think broadly and examine the many ways you are having an effect on the members of the different communities you are a part of. Keep in mind, the example you choose does not need to be a formal or traditional leadership role.
• What is a significant challenge that impacts student veterans in the field of technology and what do you believe is the root cause of this challenge? What actions have you taken to address this challenge? Keep in mind that impact can happen in many ways and at different scales. Please focus at least half of your response on the actions you have taken.
• Describe any financial circumstances affecting your need for a scholarship. In your answer be sure to describe any obstacles you have overcome to get to where you are today. What goals will this scholarship enable you to accomplish?

Veteran and Military Community at Iowa

Scholarship essays, writing a strong scholarship essay.

When submitting a scholarship, the essay component is where you are able to showcase who you are as an individual, highlight your accomplishments, and set yourself apart from other applicants.

Scholarship Application: Essays

How to answer scholarship essay questions.

The following resources from Kansas State University and University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill provide thorough overviews to help you think through your response to a scholarship essay prompt. The UNC resource focuses on statements of purpose, which are useful both for scholarship applications and applications to specialized undergraduate or graduate programs, while the K-State resource focuses specifically on the mindset needed to write a successful scholarship essay.

https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/application-essays/

https://www.k-state.edu/nationalscholarships/resources-for-prospective-scholars/writing-essays.html

Brainstorming

Before writing your essays, reflect on your unique experiences, identities, interests, goals, and values. Write a list that you can refer to as you draft various essays. 

Due Diligence

Read through ALL of the instructions the application gives so that you don’t miss anything. Create a checklist of everything to include in the essay. Is there a specific word limit? Stick to it. Do they ask you to answer four different questions? Underline where you answer each question in your draft to make sure you have clearly responded to their specific asks.

Devil is in the Details

Do you know what I mean when I say that I am hard working and organized? Sure, vaguely. How about if I say that I set up daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly schedules on a calendar synced to all my devices to stay on track with specific projects? The more specific you can be about yourself, the better. Instead of saying “I learned so much from _______ experience,” tell your reader what specifically you learned. 

Unlike other essays you may write in college, scholarship essays are the place to get personal. Use “I” and talk about yourself. The resume lists all of the things you have accomplished; the essay shows who you are and why the reader would want to have coffee with you (or give you a lot of money).

Giving specifics will help bring the story to life. While you do this, try to avoid clichés—what did you specifically feel? What did you learn: the good, the bad, and the ugly? Authenticity in storytelling goes a long way, and the folks reading your essay will appreciate the time you took to convey your experiences with nuance. This leads to the next to-do…

Storytelling

Show your reader your experiences by telling them a story. Stories have a beginning, a middle, and an end, and so should your essay. Start your essay with “the good stuff”—grab your reader’s attention right away so they keep reading. Remember, they have a pile of these on their desks or in their inboxes. Like any essay, your scholarship essay should have a thesis statement to which you connect all of your ideas. Think of this as your one-sentence answer to the essay question. The rest of your essay supports and elaborates on that point with transitions between each body paragraph. In the end, rather than restating your original thesis, give your reader a “So What?”: why this essay matters. Why did they read about your love for your local taco truck and its place in the community for three pages? A take-home message will leave your reader with something to chew on long after they have finished reading.

Connect the Dots

Read the scholarship program’s mission and what they are looking for in an applicant. Circle key words and phrases. Connect your essay or personal statement back to these specific goals and values so the reader knows exactly how you fit in with their program. Your essay should demonstrate how you would specifically benefit from and contribute to the program and its mission. Using their key words and phrases in your thesis statement is a great way to show how you are the best choice for their funding. 

Start Early and Revise

Writing scholarship essays is a tough business. You will want time in between writing a draft and submitting it to read through, not only for spelling and grammar issues (which matter a lot!), but to ensure that you are addressing that program’s goals and answering the questions they pose. Your essay may make perfect sense to you, but a reader might need clarification or more information to understand your ideas. Make an appointment to take your first draft to the University Writing Center or ask someone you trust to ask clarifying questions to read through it for you. Then, revise with their questions in mind. 

Tips on writing a “Why do you deserve this scholarship?”

Essay:  https://scholarshipowl.com/blog/apply-for-scholarships/deserve-scholarship-essay-examples/

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• Find A DAV Location
• News & Media
• Member Resources
• DAV Scholarships for Student Volunteers
• Help a Veteran as a DAV Volunteer
• Corporate Partnership
• Hire a Veteran | DAV
• Advocate on Legislation
• Partnerships
• Cause Marketing
• Event Sponsorship
• Hiring Guide
• Register for a DAV Job Fair
• Recognizing veteran employers
• DAV’s Volunteer Opportunities for Veterans
• Volunteer for Veterans – DAV Drivers Make a Difference
• Get Veteran Assistance Now at No Cost
• DAV Benefits Protection Team
• Commander’s Action Network (DAV CAN)

DAV Scholarships

Each year, DAV honors volunteers who demonstrate outstanding dedication and service to America’s veterans.

Eligibility requirements.

• Scholarships can be awarded to any volunteer who is age 21 or younger and has volunteered for a minimum of 100 hours through DAV or DAV Auxiliary.
• Scholarships can be used at any accredited institution of higher learning; to include universities, colleges, community colleges, vocational schools, etc.
• Scholarships must be utilized in full prior to the recipient attaining the age of 25, or within 6 years of receiving the scholarship, whichever is later.
• Nominations for this award may be submitted by the applicant, Voluntary Service Program Managers at VA medical centers, members of DAV departments and chapters, or friends and family.

Need More Volunteer Hours?

$110,000 Awarded Annually

Past Recipients

Related resources.

Support Veterans

Help make sure that, after defending our freedom, our heroes and loved ones get the care they earned.

Women Veterans: The Journey to Mental Wellness

Supporting women veterans’ mental health and preventing suicide through gender-tailored care.

Drive A Vehicle

Volunteering through DAV is a wonderful way Americans help keep our nation's promise to our veterans.

Deployment to Employment

For most veterans, finding a good job after military service is critical to making a successful return to civilian life and being able to support themselves and their families.

Latest News & Media

First-ever DAV Community Impact Day spurs volunteerism across nation

Study links more cancers to Camp Lejeune

‘Burning desire to serve and help veterans’ at annual advocacy event

Upcoming events.

2024 National Convention

Veteran's Scholarship

In the United States, veterans fight to secure the values and liberties of the country.

Veterans deserve our immense support for their bravery, but it's clear we're not doing enough. A staggering  1.5 million veterans  live in poverty, and many are homeless or experience severe mental health conditions.

Many dependents of veterans also bear this weight, often shouldering financial and caretaker responsibilities.

As one small act to work on this problem, the Veteran’s Scholarship exists to support the academic endeavors and interests of veterans or dependents of veterans. 

Applicants must write about a personal failure they have endured and what they did to overcome or learn from it. 

Bold.org will be awarding a scholarship each day in November to celebrate National Scholarship Month. Follow along on Bold.org's Instagram and TikTok for daily announcements of scholarships and winners!

Please describe a personal failure you have endured during your lifetime. What did you do to overcome it? What lessons did you learn from it?

Winners and Finalists

November 2020.

Winning Application

Explore all kinds of scholarships for all kinds of students.

The application deadline is Nov 9, 2020. Winners will be announced on Nov 11, 2020.

Your privacy is a top priority on the Bold.org platform, and you can find our privacy policy in full here . You may opt out of communications from Bold.org at any time, and unless we’ve first notified you and gotten your consent, you’ll never receive communication from any third parties related to personal information you give us.

Award amounts per winner are designated by the donor. Check the award amount for a detailed breakdown.

The winner will be publicly announced on Nov 11, 2020. Prior to the announcement date, we may contact finalists with additional questions about their application. We will work with donors to review all applications according to the scholarship criteria. Winners will be chosen based on the merit of their application.

Award checks will be sent to the financial aid office of the winner's academic institution or future academic institution in their name to be applied to their tuition, and in the name of their institution (depending on the school's requirements). If the award is for a qualified educational non-tuition expense, we will work with the winner directly to distribute the award and make sure it goes towards qualified expenses.

Before we award the scholarship, the winner will be required to confirm their academic enrollment status. Depending on the circumstances, verification of Student ID and/or their most recent transcript will be required.

If you have any questions about this scholarship or the Bold.org platform, just email [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as quickly as we can.

Yes. The terms and conditions for this scholarship can be found here .

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• Youth & Education

Youth Scholarships

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Before submitting your essay, download the  2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring  local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?"

About the 2023-2024 winner ...

Sophia Lin, a high school junior at BASIS Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona, was named the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Sophia's speech on the theme, "What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?" won her a $35,000 college scholarship. Sophia was sponsored by Scottsdale VFW Post 3513. Watch as Sophia delivered her speech during the VFW's Parade of Winners award  ceremony or read it here .

Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live on Facebook, or see this year's complete list of winners .

Patriot's Pen

Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay,  download the 2024-2025 entry form here  and find your sponsoring local VFW Post  as applications must be turned in by  midnight, Oct. 31 . 

The 2024-25 theme is:  "My Voice in America's Democracy?"

Bryant Day, an eighth grade student from Ashland, Ohio, was named the 2023-2024 Patriot's Pen first place winner. His essay on the theme, "How Are You Inspired by America?" won the national first place $5,000 award. Bryant was sponsored by VFW Post 9943 and its Auxiliary in Mansfield, Ohio.

Watch as Bryant delivered his winning essay during the VFW's Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, or read  his essay here.  See the complete list of 2024 national winners .

Youth Scholarships Additional Resources

2023-2024 VOD Winners

Voice of democracy entry form, voice of democracy national scholarship listing, 2023-2024 patriot's pen winners, patriot's pen entry form, patriot's pen national scholarship listing, sponsor a youth scholarship.

7 best scholarships for children of veterans

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Key takeaways

• If your parent, step-parent or grandparent is a United States veteran, you may be eligible to apply for certain scholarship opportunities that are limited to military family members.
• Scholarships do not need to be repaid, and are given as free awards to offset the cost of attending school. You may be eligible for specific scholarships based on your relationship with someone in the military, but you may also explore other awards based on your background, school or field of study.
• Many scholarships accept applications annually, and you may even be eligible to win the same award more than once over the course of your education.

Scholarships provide college students with free money to pay for school. Unlike student loans , they don’t have to be paid back, which makes them a good first choice if you need help affording college. There are scholarships designed for many types of students. Children and grandchildren of veterans can find college funding reserved for them.

There are many scholarships for children and grandchildren of veterans. While the scholarships listed below are a good place to start, don’t limit yourself. Scholarship search engines can help you find more scholarships based on your military affiliation, ethnicity, gender, economic background and school.

1. AMVETS National Scholarship

To get an AMVETS National Scholarship, you’ll need to carry at least a 3.0 GPA and show academic and financial need. You’ll also need to prove that you’re a child or a grandchild of a U.S. veteran and be a high school senior entering college the upcoming fall. Applicants will need to submit an essay of 250 to 500 words with a topic that rotates year by year.

• Amount: $4,000
• Deadline: Spring 2024 (application anticipated to open in January)
• Apply here: https://amvets.org/scholarships/

2. Paralyzed Veterans of America Educational Scholarship Program

If you’re unmarried and a dependent of a Paralyzed Veterans of America member, you can apply for this scholarship. If you’ve won this scholarship in the past, you can apply again, but you’re capped at two scholarships in a lifetime. Both full- and part-time college students can apply.

• Amount: $1,000 or $2,500
• Deadline: Applications open March 1, 2024
• Apply here: https://pva.org/find-support/scholarship-program/

3. Dolphin Scholarship Foundation

You might be eligible for the Dolphin Scholarship Foundation award if you’re currently a high school senior or college student and are the child of a current or former member of the submarine force. Accredited technical and vocational schools are accepted, although Military Service Academy students are not eligible.

• Amount: $1,000 to $4,000
• Deadline: March 15, 2024
• Apply here: https://www.dolphinscholarship.org/scholarships/

4. Allied.com Military Scholarship Competition

Students wanting to pursue a career in logistics and supply chain management can apply for the Allied.com Military Scholarship Competition. Applicants must be a dependent of a current or former active-duty military member and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. To apply, students must write a 400- to 800-word essay explaining why they’ve chosen a college major in logistics or supply chain management.

• Amount: $1,000
• Deadline: December 15, 2023
• Apply here: https://www.allied.com/military-scholarship

5. Wings Over America Scholarship

Children of current or former U.S. Navy personnel may apply for one of the many scholarships Wings Over America offers. In addition to a traditional four-year college, Wings Over America covers community college and trade and technical schools. The scholarships consider five factors: academic achievement, extracurriculars and community service, work experience, recommendations and essays.

• Amount: Varies, but typically $5,000
• Deadline: March 1, 2024
• Apply here: https://wingsoveramerica.us/app/administered

6. Children of the Wounded Scholarship

Each year, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships between $2,500 and $10,000. To apply, you must have a GPA of 2.0 or above and an adjusted gross household income of $117,000 or less. You must also be the child or step-child of:

• A current or former U.S. Marine
• A current or former U.S. Navy Corpsman, Navy Chaplain or Religious Program Specialist attached or formerly attached to a U.S. Marine Corps unit
• Amount: Up to $40,000 across four years
• Deadline: March 1, 2024 (applications open in January)
• Apply here: https://mcsf.scholarshipapps.org/

7. The Army Scholarship Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholarship

The ASF’s Undergraduate Scholarship is open to high school seniors, high school graduates and undergraduate students. The application is also open to students enrolled in vocational or technical schools. To apply, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.0, be under the age of 24 and submit a 300-word essay answering one of the questions provided. You must also be the child or spouse of a current or former National Guard or U.S. Army member.

• Amount: Varies; awards average $1,000
• Deadline: April 15, 2024 (applications open in January)
• Apply here: https://armyscholarshipfoundation.org/scholarships/

Where to find scholarships for children of veterans

If you’re the child or grandchild of someone who served in the U.S. military, there are plenty of scholarships out there just for you. You can find these by doing a quick internet search or by using a scholarship search engine, such as the following:

• College Scholarships.org
• Scholarships.com
• TheBestSchools.org

You can also search for related scholarships at the institution you plan on attending by contacting their financial aid office or by contacting different military- or veteran-affiliated organizations.

It’s worth noting you may be eligible for scholarships based on other factors, too.

When doing your search, try looking for other categories you might fit into. For instance, if you’re a woman, try searching for “ scholarships for women .” If you’re a computer science major, try searching for scholarships related to your field of study. Broadening your search is key to securing as much free money as possible.

Tips for applying for scholarships

If you want to limit how much money you borrow through student loans , it’s a good idea to maximize your free money. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

• Get organized. Create a spreadsheet that details each scholarship, the award amount, deadlines, application status and anything major you need for the application, like letters of recommendation or essays. It might help to keep a separate tab on all awarded money so you know how much more scholarship money you need for a free ride to school.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Many scholarships require a completed FAFSA when you apply. To save time, complete the FAFSA as early as possible. This helps your scholarship applications and also gives you an idea of your expected family contribution. It can also help you qualify for federal grants and loans.
• Complete requirements. Even after you’ve won awards, stay up to date with ongoing requirements. Many scholarships for children of veterans are multi-year awards requiring annual reapplications. If any scholarships aren’t renewed, you’ll need to cover those costs and apply for new scholarships, grants, work-study or loans.

Other ways to pay for school

Many students find ways of paying for college with scholarship s but keep in mind this is not the only way of financing a higher education . In addition to searching for scholarships, be sure to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) each year you attend school. This can connect you with other funding opportunities like work-study programs, grants and student loans .

Financial aid is the main way most students pay for the cost of a college degree. That said, many also use funds from a college savings account . You may also qualify for a tuition waiver in some cases. Some students work a part-time or seasonal job to earn an income and offset the cost of living while in school.

Bottom line

Being the child of a military veteran can qualify you for a unique set of scholarship awards. Keep an eye on scholarship search engines and be sure to fill out a FAFSA each year you are enrolled in a college, technical school or trade school program. The opportunities available to you may change each year, and leveraging multiple scholarship awards can help you to keep college as affordable as possible.

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The 3 best scholarships for college students

• General Military Questions

15 Scholarships for Military Children, Spouses, and Veterans

Serving as a member in the U.S. Military is one of the greatest sacrifices that an American can make. Not only are soldiers placed in dangerous circumstances, but they also must make a gigantic sacrifice in regards to their families.

The military life affects not only the soldier, but also the husband or wife, and children that belong to the service member. They must also make sacrifices by not having a loved one around for substantial periods of time.

As a result, the U.S. government has always attempted to help reward service member families with financial benefits in order to compensate them for their sacrifice.

Related Article – Joining The Military After College: How To Do It The “Right” Way

There are many military scholarships that exist. Scholarships for military spouses, children, and veterans are abundant, you just have to know where to look.

Below you’ll find 15 of the best scholarships that are available both for veterans themselves, as well as their dependents.

Table of Contents

7 Scholarships For Military Children

There are over 1.3 million active duty military personnel in the United States. When you consider the even larger number of spouses and children, there are millions of individuals each year impacted by military service.

What scholarships exist specifically for children and grandchildren of U.S. service members, both active duty and veterans?

Related Article: Questions to Ask a Military Recruiter

#1 – AMVETS Scholarship

Amount: $4,000

The AMVETS scholarship is awarded annually to students for four years in the amount of $1,000 each year. The scholarship is specifically designed and reserved for children as well as grandchildren of active duty military or veterans.

The program has other scholarships that children may apply for that are a little more selective, including the Dr. Aurelio M. Caccomo Family Foundation Memorial Scholarship ($12,000).

How to apply: Applicants are required to be current high school seniors. They also must be United States citizens and provide evidence that the father or mother served in the military honorably.

The AMVETS scholarship considers GPA and financial need. The deadline to enter is January.

Where to apply: https://amvets.org/scholarships/

Related Article:  Attending The Naval Academy Preparatory School

#2 – Scholarships for Military Children

Amount: $2,000

The Scholarships for Military Children is funded by Fisher House and its contributors. In nearly two decades the scholarship has raised $18 million dollars for recipients.

In 2018, a total of 500 scholarship grants (each for $2,000) were awarded to recent high school graduates. It is currently closed for this year but will open up once again in mid-December 2023.

How to apply: The application process is conducted online. In addition to factoring in academic achievement and community involvement, the scholarship also requires a short, 500-word essay. The essay topic will be announced when applications open in December.

Applicants must also validate their eligibility as a military dependent by entering the benefits number found on the reverse of the DD Form 1173 Identification Privilege card.

Where to apply:  https://www.militaryscholar.org/

#3 – Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund

Amount: Varies

The Chief Petty Office Scholarship Fund grants various funds to numerous recipients every year. All children of active duty, retired, or reserve Chief Petty  Officers are eligible for the award, including adopted and step-children.

The non-profit organization established the scholarship to generate and distribute funds specifically for educational opportunities. Candidates eligible for scholarship awards are non-uniformed spouses or dependent children of all Chief Petty Officers in the U.S. Navy.

How to apply: The guidelines for applying include:

• Be about to graduate or have graduated from high school or earned a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• Must intend to enter or currently be enrolled in a community college, vocational college, or university.
• Be immediate family members of Chief Petty Officers, or adopted or step-children.

The deadline to enter is April 1.

Where to apply:  https://www.cposf.org/

Related Article:  How To Get Into The Air Force Academy

#4 – Frederick C. Branch Scholarship Program

The Fredrick C. Branch scholarship is named after the first black officer to serve in the United States Marine Corps. The NROTC scholarship is awarded to military children that plan to attend one of the 17 historically black colleges in the United States.

Each year, the Fredrick C. Branch scholarship awards nearly 70 Branch scholarships to recipients. Each awardee receives two, four-year installments, or one, three-year installment.

How to apply: For a complete list of all the qualifying colleges please visit the link below. Previous awardees were noted for being exceptional examples of “well-rounded” students.

The scholarship fund is open to all children of military personnel as long as they plan to attend one of the 17 black historical colleges.

Where to apply: https://www.netc.navy.mil/Commands/Naval-Service-Training-Command/NROTC/Marine/Marine/Marine/Marine/Marine/#Top8

#5 – Hero’s Legacy Scholarship

The Hero’s Legacy Scholarship was created to provide funds for the children of a parent that has fallen in battle or receives full disability compensation. It honors not only those that have served but have had their life significantly altered as a result.

The scholarship is funded by tax proceeds from the book “Of Thee I Sing. A Letter to My Daughters” by former U.S. President Barack Obama, as well as private donations. The amount to be donated is based on funds received.

How to apply: The program is open to dependent, unmarried children under the age of 23 of a service member who died or was disabled since 9/11. 

You need to apply online. You will also need a transcript of your grades, documents that verify death or TSGLI eligibility, as well as the DD214 or DD1300 Form.

Where to apply: https://www.militaryscholar.org/legacy/

Related Article:  How To Get Into West Point Military Academy

#6 – Dolphin Scholarship Fund

Amount: $1,500, $2,600, or $4,000

The Dolphin Scholarship Fund is provided each year to unmarried children or stepchildren of the US Navy Submarine Force. Children must be under the age of 24 and considered dependent to active duty members of the Navy. A total of 115 awards are granted each year.

The financial award is renewable and based on academic proficiency, need for financial assistance, as well as a commitment to extra-curricular activities in or outside school.

How to apply:  Please visit the official website for more details regarding the application process and requirements. The deadline to apply is March 15.

Where to apply: https://www.dolphinscholarship.org/

#7 – Freedom Alliance

To help those who have sacrificed for our country, Freedom Alliance is accepting applications from college-age children of military heroes for the 2022-2023 school year.

Students are eligible if they are the dependent child of a U.S. Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, or Guardsman who was killed or permanently disabled (100 percent VA disability rating) in a combat mission or training accident.

To date, Freedom Alliance has provided more than $20 million worth of college scholarships to children with a parent wounded or killed while defending our country.

The top five areas of study among scholarship students are nursing, psychology, biology, business, and mechanical engineering – it’s an incredible program that has helped so many who otherwise may not have been able to continue their education after high school.

How to apply: The student must be a high school senior or graduate or registered as a full-time undergraduate and under the age of 26.  You can learn more about the requirements for this scholarship here .

Where to apply: https://www.tfaforms.com/4659817

4 Scholarships For Military Spouses

In addition to children of military personnel, there are a variety of scholarships specifically reserved for spouses. Some scholarships are open to both spouses and children (posted above), while others are restricted to spouses.

Related Article: Which Branch of the U.S. Military Should I Join?

#1 –  Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver Scholarship

The Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver scholarship was created to provide varying amounts to military spouses and caregivers for their strength and resolve despite adversity.

This scholarship is for the spouses of disabled post-9/11 service members that have sustained a combat injury or are 100% VA rated disbled.

The financial assistance for continuing education is supported at accredited U.S. institutions. There are a number of different scholarships offered under the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver program including the New Beginnings Scholarship, Restoring Family Scholarship, Restoring Hope Scholarship, and Honorary Scholarship.

Related Article: 10 Benefits Of Being A Military Wife (and 5 Not-so-good things)

How to apply:  In order to be considered for the scholarship opportunities please submit an online application. You will also need to include an original essay that discusses academic achievement and personal goals, along with a two-page questionnaire.

Two letters of recommendation are also required. The deadline to apply is April 1.

Where to apply:  https://www.hopeforthewarriors.org/transition/military-spouse-scholarships/

#2 – Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship

Amount: $500 to $1,000

The Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship is sponsored by the National Military Family Association. It awards up to $1,000 to spouses of all active duty, national guard, or reserve members. It also considers spouses of retired uniformed service members as well.

The scholarship is designed to provide funds for furthering education in vocational training or degree-seeking undergraduate programs.

How to apply:  The Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship will only consider online applications. In order to qualify, military spouses must provide a copy of their marriage certificate as well as a military verification document.

The deadline to apply is early February.

Where to apply: https://www.militaryfamily.org/programs/spouses-scholarships/

Related Article – Top 15 Military Schools For Boys And Girls

#3 – Military Spouse FINRA Fellowship Program

The Military Spouse Fellowship program is sponsored by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Investor Education Foundation. The program produces a monthly stipend to military spouses that participate in a training program that makes them an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC).

The training helps teach marketable job skills, knowledge, tools, and resources that help a military family overcome financial struggles.

How to apply:  The Military Spouse FINRA Fellowship Program is a little different from other scholarships listed in this article since it deals with certification training as opposed to receiving a vocational or undergraduate degree. Please check with a qualifying AFC certificate program for more information.

The application period is closed for 2023, but you can sign up to be notified when it reopens at the website below. 

Where to apply:  https://www.afcpe.org/resource-center/funding-and-recognition/finra-foundation-military-spouse-fellowship/

Related Article – US Naval Academy Summer Seminar: A Day In The Life Of A Camper

#4 – Wings Over America Foundation Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

The Wings Over American Foundation scholarship was created to provide financial relief for spouses as well as dependent children of U.S. Navy Aviation personnel that are on active duty, retired, honorably discharged, or deceased.

Awardees are selected based on scholastic merit, financial need, and community service involvement. The mission of the scholarship fund is to help spouses and children of military personnel to pursue educational dreams and ambitions.

How to apply: Scholarships are awarded to 50 individuals each year. It is funded solely through generous contributions. The money is applicable to use at community colleges, trade and technical schools, as well as traditional college scholarships.

Spouses must be enrolled or plan to enroll as full or part-time students with a load of at least 6 credit hours a semester. The service member must have served at least 8 years in the Navy unless they perished on duty while serving in a Navy Aviation capacity. 

Where to apply:  https://wingsoveramerica.us/scholarships

Related Article – American Military University (AMU) Reputation: Worth It? (2019 Review)

4 Scholarships For Military Veterans

Veterans deserve to receive numerous benefits when they return from duty. One way to help veterans adjust back to society is to provide funds for new educational opportunities. Thankfully, there are many scholarships that exist for the brave men and women that have retired from military service.

Related Article:  20 Reasons to Join the Military (and 7 reasons not to)

#1 – AFCEA War Veterans Scholarship

Amount: $2,500

The War Veterans Scholarship is awarded by the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA). It provides financial relief to active duty uniformed military service members as well as honorably discharged veterans that served in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.

The scholarship is open twice a year and provides merit-based scholarships of $2,500.

How to apply: The primary stipulation is the veteran must be enrolled in an accredited STEM-related degree program at an accredited 4-year college or university.

Qualified applicants must be U.S. citizens, a sophomore or junior at the time of application, have either part-time or full-time status at a four-year university, have served in Afghanistan and/or Iraq War, and have an overall GPA of 3.0.

Additionally, you must provide proof that you served in the form of a DD214 or Certificate of Service.

Lastly, you must be majoring in any one of the following related degree programs:

Biometry/Biometrics, Computer Engineering, Computer Forensics Science, Computer Programming, Computer Science, Computer Systems, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Geospatial Science, Information Science, Information Technology, Information Resource Management, Intelligence, Mathematics, Network Engineering, Network Security, Operations, Research, Physics, Robotics Engineering, Robotics Technology, Statistics, Strategic Intelligence, and Telecommunications Engineering.

Where to apply: https://www.afcea.org/site/foundation/scholarships/war-veterans

Related Article – How To Get Into The US Naval Academy: 5 Steps To Getting In

#2 – Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship

The Army Women’s Foundation Legacy scholarship was established to honor the many women serving in the U.S. Army. The grant provides up to $2,500 in tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate military vets.

There are multiple different scholarships listed under the Army Women’s Foundation depending on personal goals. It includes scholarships for community colleges, certificate programs, universities, or graduate programs.

How to apply: In order to apply, you must be a woman that has honorably served in the U.S. Army, Army Reserve, or Army National Guard.

Related Article: Does The National Guard Pay For College?

Please visit the official website below for application deadlines and details. Qualified candidates need to demonstrate a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must present a college transcript along with recommendations.

Where to apply:  https://www.awfdn.org/scholarships/

#3 – Imagine America’s Military Award Program

Amount: $1,000

The Imagine America’s Military Award program was established to assist higher learning funds for military veterans. Also known as the MAP program, it can provide $1,000 for educational funds.

The scholarship is open to active duty military personnel, reservists, honorably discharged military vets, as well as retired veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces that seek to pursue career college training.

How to apply: The deadline for the award varies. Please visit the official website for more details.

Qualified applicants must be enrolled in an accredited higher learning institution. They must also display good academic potential and have a need for financial assistance.

Where to apply:  https://www.imagine-america.org/grantsformilitary/

Related Article – Military Tuition Assistance

#4 – Pat Tillman Scholarship

The scholarship is honorably named after Pat Tillman, a former NFL all-star that left a lucrative career with the Arizona Cardinals following September 11th and joined the U.S. Military. He later died in combat.

The Pat Tillman Scholarship was created to award annual funds to active service members of all branches of the U.S. military, as well as veterans and spouses. The scholarship is available for undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate degrees.

How to apply:  Like most scholarships, you can learn more information by visiting the official website (posted, below) and applying online.

Candidates are asked to demonstrate values and strength of character that reflect Pat Tillman. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is also required.

Where to apply:  https://pattillmanfoundation.org/apply-to-be-a-scholar/

Frequently Asked Questions

What states offer free college tuition for veteran’s dependents.

Wyoming provides veteran tuition benefits for overseas combat veterans, surviving spouses, and dependents.

How do you get an Army scholarship?

You can apply for an Army ROTC scholarship if you are a U.S. citizen between 17 and 26, have a high school diploma, have a GPA of 2.50, and meet the minimum 920 on the SAT or 19 on the ACT.

Does VA pay for children’s college?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides 36 months of college tuition up to the maximum in-state college rate, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual stipend for books and supplies.

Do children of 100% disabled veterans get free college?

Survivor’s and Dependent’s Educational Assistance provides up to 36 months of college benefits for spouses and children of veterans with a 100 percent service-connected disability.

Can military spouses go to school for free?

The MyCAA Military Spouse Education Benefits provides tuition assistance up to $4,000 to pursue a license, certification, or associate’s degree.

There are many different scholarships available depending if you are a veteran or have family that would like to continue their education. Several scholarships exist for spouses and children.

If you know of any others, feel free to share in the comments below!

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Scholarships For Military Children

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Scholarships

In addition to the standard VA education benefits, the VA also offers the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM scholarship for any student using Chapter 33 and/or FRY Scholarship benefit.  This additional scholarship can extend benefits up to 9 months if their degree program is in one of the STEM approved programs.  For consideration, go to this link and apply:  va.gov

Ohio University offers eleven (11) scholarships to our veterans:

Athens Campus:  

• Army ROTC - The Krull Veteran's Scholarship
• Patton College of Education Military & Veteran Leadership Award ( Undergraduate Only! )
• Russ College of Engineering has the Robert E. Wilkes Scholarship
• Veterans and Military Services Scholarship Fund (NEW)

Chillicothe Campus:

• Veterans Scholarship

Southern Campus:  

• Frank McCown Veteran's Memorial Scholarship
• H.B. Doc Riley, CH 51, Disabled American Veterans Scholarship

Zanesville Campus:

• The Ohio University Zanesville Veterans Scholarship

College of Business Graduate Program ( Online and Professional programs only ):

• Veterans and Currently Serving Military Service Award Eligibility

College of Fine Arts:

• Fine Arts Talent Awards for Veterans

OHIO Online Incentives Scholarships

Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service:

• Veteran and Active Duty Scholarship ( Executive and Online MPA Programs )

Additional Scholarships from agencies/companies/people across the country are below.  Open up the word document that applies to you.

• Scholarships for Military Affiliated Students   (Word)
• Scholarships for Spouses and Dependents  (Word)
• College Recon - Military & Veteran College Scholarships and Grants Finder

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Education Benefits

Using your military education benefits at iu.

If you are a past or present U.S. service member or the dependent of a service member, you may be able to use military education benefits at Indiana University. Our Center for Veteran and Military Students can help you determine your eligibility for benefits and learn how to apply for them.

Get started

The first step in using your military education benefits at IU is to apply for admission to the university. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions has detailed information about the application process for military and veteran applicants .

You also should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , even if you plan to use your military education benefits to pay for school. Completing the FAFSA, which determines your eligibility for federal and state financial aid, will ensure that you receive the maximum amount of aid for which you’re eligible.

Explore and apply for benefits

There are several kinds of military education benefits available for service members and their dependents at IU. Your eligibility for benefits depends on a number of factors, including when and for how long you served. If you’re not sure which benefits you qualify for or how to apply for them, contact the Center for Veteran and Military Students—we’ll help you figure it out.

VA education benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides education benefits to qualified veterans and their dependents through the GI Bill® and other educational assistance programs.

Post-9/11 GI Bill®

If you’ve served on active duty for at least 90 days after September 10, 2001, you may qualify for up to 36 months of education benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Benefits also may be available for qualified dependents.

Yellow Ribbon Program

If you are a nonresident student, you may qualify for the Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides additional financial assistance to nonresident students whose costs aren’t fully covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.

Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty

If you’ve served on active duty for at least two years, you may qualify for up to 36 months of education benefits through the Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty. These benefits are available for 10 years after you end active duty.

Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve

If you are a member of the Selected Reserve (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, or Navy Reserve or the Air or Army National Guard), you may be eligible for up to 36 months of education benefits through the Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve.

Veteran Readiness and Employment

If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability that limits your ability to work or prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits, including funding for education-related expenses such as tuition, books, and supplies. Benefits also may be available to qualified dependents.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Assistance

Educational assistance program.

If you are a qualified dependent of a veteran who is disabled or has died, you may qualify for education benefits through the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program.

Fry Scholarship

If your parent or spouse was an active-duty service member who died in the line of duty after September 11, 2001, you may qualify for the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship.

Fry Scholar Supplemental Grant

If you receive Fry Scholarship benefits, you also are eligible for the Fry Scholar Supplemental Grant. There is no separate application for the grant; the award will be processed by the Office of Veterans Support Services when you certify your enrollment as a Fry Scholar.

Getting your VA education benefits

If you are awarded VA education benefits, you are required to complete two online forms. The first form is the New Student Intake and this form is done only once. The second form is the Request for Enrollment Certification . This form has to be completed before each semester you use VA benefits. We use this form to certify your enrollment to the VA. If your enrollment is not certified, you won't receive your benefits. If you have questions about either of these forms, contact or stop by the Center for Veteran and Military Students for assistance.

If you receive any VA education benefits other than Post-9/11 GI Bill ® benefits, you must verify your enrollment with the VA by phone or online each month.

Military tuition assistance

Each service branch provides tuition assistance for voluntary off-duty education programs for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members. The application process varies by branch. Please check with your Educational Services Officer prior to enrolling.

If you are awarded tuition assistance, please let the Bursar’s Office know by submitting your tuition assistance authorization .  If you have further questions about the sponsored student process, visit Student Central's Third-Party Sponsors page .

If you are a student using the military Tuition Assistance program and you have questions about non-military financial aid, please contact Randy Hawes or Mary Ann Williams at Student Central. They can be reached at [email protected] or by calling Student Central (812-855-6500) during normal business hours. Other contact options may be available. Visit Student Central f or options.

Learn about Air Force tuition assistance

Learn about Army tuition assistance

Learn about Coast Guard tuition assistance

Learn about Marine Corps tuition assistance

Learn about Navy tuition assistance

State benefits

The state of Indiana offers education benefits to qualified Indiana veterans and their dependents.

Indiana Department of Veterans’ Affairs tuition and fee exemptions

The Indiana Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers tuition and fee exemptions for:

• Indiana residents who have received the Purple Heart
• Children of disabled Indiana veterans

Indiana National Guard Tuition Supplement Grant

If you are a member of the Indiana National Guard in active drilling status, you may qualify for the Indiana National Guard Tuition Supplement Grant. The grant could pay up to 100 percent of tuition and regularly assessed fees.

You must have a current FAFSA on file and submit an application for the grant each semester you wish to receive it.

IU benefits

IU offers education benefits to qualified veterans and and their dependents enrolled at IU Bloomington.

Residency-related benefits

If you do not live in Indiana, you may still qualify for in-state tuition rates. In order to receive a residency exception, eligible students must notify their campus veteran services office and provide documentation to confirm eligibility.

Tillman Scholar Program

As a Pat Tillman Foundation partner university, IU is able to host one Tillman Scholar each year. Benefits of the Tillman Scholar Program include:

• Academic scholarships
• Professional development and leadership opportunities
• Access to the Tillman Scholar Community, a network of Tillman Scholars at universities across the country

The application cycle opens in February each year.

LaVerne Noyes Award

If you are a direct descendant of an American veteran of World War I, you may be eligible for IU’s LaVerne Noyes Award.

USS Indiana Scholarship

Indiana University is proud to present the USS Indiana Scholarship program in recognition of the new United States submarine (SSN-789) named for the great state of Indiana, and the men and women who serve on the ship. The scholarship also recognizes the 100th anniversary of IU’s first educational partnership with the US Navy which began on October 1, 1918. IU is connected to the USS Indiana by serving as home of the memorial to the previous USS Indiana (BB-58) outside IU Bloomington’s Memorial Stadium.

The USS Indiana Scholarship is a one-time award of $5,000 toward education-related expenses at any IU campus. It is awarded to one current or newly admitted, full-time graduate or undergraduate student each year. It is available for use in the academic year of the student’s choice. To be eligible, a student must be currently serving or have served in the past on the USS Indiana.

Applications should be submitted by May 1 of each year. The recipient will be notified by June 1. For more information, contact  [email protected] .

Veteran Family Support Grant

IU’s Veteran Family Support Grant provides up to $2,000 in unrestricted funding each year to veteran and military-connected students who are enrolled full time at IU Bloomington and are supporting a child or children under 18. The grant is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out.

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KWVA Academic Scholarships

The kwva offers scholarships for descendants of korean war veterans., scholarship program.

This scholarship program consists of seven $1,000 scholarships and two $1,500 scholarships. The funds may be used for any term during the next academic school year following receipt of the scholarship. Although this scholarship is not renewable, the applicants may reapply for the scholarship in subsequent years.

Qualifications - The Applicant

• Must be a citizen of the United States.
• First Year Student applicants must have a Letter of Acceptance as a full-time student from their university or college.
• Must be pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Advanced Degree in any discipline.
• Must have a minimum 3.5 on a 4.0 scale GPA stated on application and must be verifiable from transcript.
• For high school students entering college, this is a cumulative GPA for grades 9-11 and first semester of 12th grade.
• For students currently at freshman level in college, it is the cumulative GPA for grades 9-12 and first semester of college.
• For college students who are sophomores or higher, it is their college transcript for all semesters completed.
• Must submit a 300 to 400-word personal essay entitled “Historical Lessons Learned from the Korean War.”

All scholarship applications and requested materials must be submitted via US Postal Service and received by July 31, 2024. The Scholarship Committee will not acknowledgment receipt of applications. For verification that it was received, send it via USPS mail. Faxes or emails will not be accepted.

Only Scholarship recipients will be notified. Checks will be delivered to Financial Aid Officer of the Recipient's college or university to be credited to the student's account. All decisions made by the Scholarship Selection Committee will be final.

Scholarship Recipients will be recognized at our Annual Meeting in October of 2024. Detailed information will be provided to Scholarship Recipients at a later date. Although attendance is not mandatory, scholarship recipients are encouraged to attend.

Required Materials

The following items are required to complete the application process. These items must be submitted in a single envelope in the order listed. All items received separately, except for transcripts which may be mailed directly from your school, will not be considered.

• Application - must be on the original form, printed legibly or typed, and signed. NOTE: You must use the 2024 Application Form, which supersedes all previous application forms, and add no extra sheets.
• Essay - must be typed (double spaced), consisting of 300 to 400 words.
• GPA - submit all applicable high school and college transcripts.
• Letter of Acceptance - from the school for the student's first year in college.
• Proof of Service - for Applicant's deceased Korea veteran ancestor.

Application Form

Mailing Address

Korean War Veterans Association, Inc. Scholarship Selection Committee 2473 SW Galiano Rd Port St Lucie FL 34987-2061