There are many different scholarship programs available to the spouses and children of military servicemembers. The criteria or eligibility for each program is varied, as is the amount of each award. It is important to research all of your options and apply to any scholarship you may be eligible for.
Scholarships for Military Children Program- Has awarded nearly $7.4 million dollars in scholarships over the past nine years. The program is primarily funded by manufacturers and suppliers whose products are sold at military commissaries.
ThanksUSA- Offers scholarships to any spouse or child of an active duty military member to be used for full-time study at a two or four-year college, university, technical school or vocational school. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, grades and leadership.
Military Officers Associates of America (MOAA)- Offers several grants and scholarships for students who are children of active duty military members and are pursuing their first undergraduate degrees. MOAA also offers an interest-free loan program for children of active duty, retired or former military members who belong to MOAA.
The American Patriot Freedom Scholarship Award for Military Dependent Children- Has awarded $95,000 in scholarships to military dependent children since 2006. These scholarships may be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, or room and board expenses. Winners are selected based on essays submitted on topics chosen by the organization.
The American Legion- Offers a number of scholarships to children of military veterans and servicemembers.
Fold of Honor Foundation Scholarships- Provides scholarships for dependants and spouses of servicemembers that have been killed or disabled as a result of their military service.
National Military Family Association- Offers the Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships to spouses of all servicemembers. Scholarships can be used for tuition, fees, and school room and board for all types of higher education.
Ladies Auxiliary of the FRA- Offers multiple scholarships to children and spouses of servicemembers.
Service Branch Specific Scholarships
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS): NMCRS offers four different scholarship opportunities for children of Navy-Marine Corps members.
Air Force Aid Society (AFAS): The AFAS offers grant money for children of Air Force members.
Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF): The MCSF offers scholarships to children of active, deceased, or honorably discharged Marines.
Reserve Officer’s Association (ROA): The ROA offers scholarships towards undergraduate degrees for children of ROA members.
Naval Special Warfare Foundation (NSW) : The NSW offers scholarships to children of active members of the Navy.
It is also important to check with the school you wish to attend to see if they may have any scholarships that you may be eligible for.
