ngat Educational foundation
The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation exist exclusively and solely, for furthering the educational opportunities of young people and for the carrying on a support of education, literary or scientific activities, including the granting of educational scholarships to members of the National Guard Association of Texas and/or the children of members of the National Guard Association of Texas.
National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation
3706 Crawford Ave.
Austin, TX 78731
512-454-7300
mharris@ngat.org
What is NGATEF?
The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation announces its annual scholarship competition. Educational grants for attendance at college or university will be awarded to active and life members of the National Guard Association of Texas and/or their spouses, sons or daughters. The foundation will award several educational grants of various amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000. High school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students will be considered for educational grants.
The NGATEF accepts contributions made with cash, credit cards, life insurance policies, memorials and charitable gift annuities. For more information, contact Marvin Harris, at (512) 454-7300 or email mharris@ngat.org. 2024 marked the 46th anniversary of the National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation. Since inception, the Foundation has awarded $575,750 in scholarships to deserving men, women, and dependents of the Texas Military Department.
The 2024 NGATEF Scholarship Competition
is now closed.
Winners will be announced in late March.
Thank you to all who submitted their hard work for consideration.
This years scholarship program includes scholarships specifically for a junior enlisted and NCO Soldier or Airmen currently serving in the Texas Army or Air National Guard and for a Soldier in the 36th Infantry Division. We also have a scholarship specifically for a member of the Texas State Guard.
Donate to the
NGAT Educational Foundation
Support the NGATEF by playing in our
Annual Golf Tournament
to be held March 22, 2024 at the
Forest Creek Golf Club in Round Rock, Texas.
Donate to our Memorials Scholarships
CW4 (Ret) Len & Jean Tallas
Former NGAT Executive Director
CW4 (Ret) Lewis King
Former NGAT Executive Director
COL (Ret) Dale & Georgie Pyeatt
Former NGAT Executive Director
CSM John Morgan
Enlisted Memorial Scholarship
COL Richard E. Harrison
Former NGAT President & NGAT Educational Foundation President
Donate to our Leadership Scholarship
MG (Ret) James K. “Red” Brown Leadership Scholarship
MG (Ret) William A. “Bill” Hall Leadership Scholarship
MG (Ret) Patrick M. Hamilton Leadership Scholarship
MG (Ret) Charles K. Aris Leadership Scholarship
Thank you to the following organization for supporting our scholarship program:
2024 NGAT Educational Foundation Scholarship Winners
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR WINNERS.
THANK YOU TO USAA AND EVERYONE WHO
CONTINUES TO DONATE TO THE NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP ($5,000)
SSG BOYD OCON
1st Brigade, Texas State Guard
NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP ($4,000)
HANNAH HAMONTREE
Daughter of LTC (Ret) George Hamontree III
NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP ($3,000)
KALEB LORANCE
Son of SGM Gerald Lorance
NGAT EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP ($2,000)
1LT TRUMAN PETTY
136th Regional Training Institute
MG (RET) WILLIAM A. “BILL” HALL & FAMILY LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP
($1,500)
GABRIEL LORANCE
Son of SGM Gerald Lorance
MG (RET) PATRICK HAMILTON LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP ($1,500)
MASSIMILIANO RUSSOLILLO
Son of SPC Stefano Russolillo
GLORIA JENELL AND MARLIN E. MOTE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP ($1,250)
PV2 ISABELLA RAMOS
3rd Brigade, Texas State Guard
LEN AND JEAN TALLAS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
A1C EDUARDO FIGUEROA
147th Attack Wing
NGAT PAST PRESIDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
CAMRYN LESLIE
Daughter of Col (Ret) Kurt Leslie
TXNG RETIREES ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
SSG BRANDY LAM-HAMER
386th Engineer Battalion
USAA SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
CHRISTOPHER ABRAHAMS
Son of SSgt Jeffery Abrahams
MG (RET) JAMES K. “RED” BROWN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
ROSELINE NEELEY
Daughter of MAJ Craig Neeley
MG (RET) CHARLES K. ARIS LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
GRACE BARROW
Daughter of COL (Ret) Gregory Barrow
MG (RET) WILLIAM WILSON HONORARY SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
SYDNEY BEARDEN
Daughter of CMSgt (Ret) Shawn Bearden
COL (RET) STANLEY A. AND SHERRY MURRELL LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP ($1,000)
PV2 ADRIAN BARAJAS
3rd Brigade, Texas State Guard
136TH MP LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP ($500)
BRIANNA GONZALEZ
Daughter of SGM Jesus Gonzalez
NGATEF BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CSM (Ret) Mark Weedon – President
CCMSgt (Ret) William Maginot – Vice President
Vacant – Treasurer
LTC (Ret) Marvin Harris – Secretary
CCMSgt (Ret) Priscilla Leger – Trustee
COL (Ret) Randall Casey – Trustee
COL (Ret) Christian Von Wupperfeld – Trustee
Angela Matthews – Trustee
Maria Daniels – Trustee
SFC Mireya Cruz – Trustee
LTC (Ret) Westly West – Trustee
- Educational Benefits
- Additional Education Opportunities
- Texas National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program
- Texas Hazelwood Act Tuition Exemption
- EANGUS Scholarship (includes enlisted personnel and their family members)
- NGAUS Scholarship (includes officer personnel and their family members)
- American Military University - NGAT Sponsor
- Indiana Wesleyan University - NGAT Sponsor
- Lincoln College of Technology - NGAT Sponsor
- Southern New Hampshire University - NGAT Sponsor
- SpeedyPrep Online CLEP Prep System - NGAT members save 30% off for 3 months
- Western Governors University Scholarships
- Scholarship for Military Children
- Scholarships for Military Spouses and Children
- Scholarships for Military Families
- Student Loan Forgiveness: Joining the Military
- Federal Student Aid
- Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship Program
- College Board Scholarship Program
- Accredited Schools Online
The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation (NGATEF) exist exclusively and solely, for furthering the educational opportunities of young people and for the carrying on a support of education, literary or scientific activities, including the granting of educational scholarships to members of the National Guard Association of Texas and/or the children of members of the National Guard Association of Texas. The foundation will award several educational grants of various amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000. High school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students will be considered for educational grants.
You must be a NGAT Life or Annual Member or the spouse/son/daughter of a NGAT Life or Annual Member in order to apply for the scholarship program.
The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) provides Educational Scholarships Annually to EANGUS Members, their spouses/son/daughters. In order to join EANGUS you must be a member of NGAT. NGAT Annual membership does include membership in EANGUS. There are two types of scholarships available. The CSM Virgil R. Williams and the Patriot Scholarships are paid by EANGUS directly to the school the selectee is attending. The second type of scholarships are presented by specific universities that EANGUS has partnered with. If at anytime you have questions, please contact scholarship@eangus.org and someone will respond to your inquiry or request for assistance.
EANGUS accepts online applications only. Deadline to apply for most scholarships is 1 April unless listed otherwise.
Click here to learn more.
The National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) scholarship information.
The AFBA NGAUS Active Life Member Scholarship awards two $5,000 scholarships every July to Active Life members of NGAUS or dependents of Active Life members seeking an undergraduate, graduate or post-graduate degree. The applicant must be a full-time student. The application period runs March 1 through June 1.
The Van Hipp Heroes Scholarship Fund established in 2015, Van Hipp donates 100% of the proceeds from his book, The New Terrorism: How to Fight It and Defeat It to The Van Hipp Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund which will award scholarships to Guardsmen wounded in action in the War on Terror. This initiative is administered by the National Guard Educational Foundation. The application period runs through July 1.
Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund. Since September 11, 2001, nearly 800 Guardsmen have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terrorism. These heroes left behind more than 1,000 children. Established in 2011 and underwritten by Leonardo DRS, the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund provides college scholarships to the children of National Guardsmen who have been lost in service to our nation since 9/11. Over the past decade, NGEF has awarded 94 scholarships to students through the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund. The application period runs through June 30.
Enlisted NGAT Annual Membership includes membership in EANGUS and the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). AUSA provides many scholarships for their members. Click here for more information on available scholarships.
NATIONALLY APPROVED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
At Swift, we’re proud to be part of the VA on-the-job training and apprenticeship program. Not only will you receive a world-class education from caring, knowledgeable instructors, but you’ll earn your Class A CDL. and join a company that honors your commitment to your country – and your family. You can find additional information about the apprenticeship program here:
https://www.swifttrans.com/veterans
VETERAN CDL SCHOLARSHIP
As a Veteran, you understand the value of loyalty. Swift offers fully-paid tuition scholarships to service members, their spouses or dependents, to attend a Swift Academy. Our military scholarship covers the cost of tuition and any applicable housing. You can start your career as a truck driver without any concern for costs. It’s our way of saying thank you for your service. Contact a recruiter at 888-829-4191 to learn more about our scholorship.
BEST KEPT SECRET IN EDUCATION
Get a free degree plan
Free College Courses & Discounts
Fast Track Your Degree
Real Savings on Real Life
Dare to Compare **** College Credits at Home **** Tuition Free College Classes **** Save Money on Your Degree
As a member of NGAT you and your family have unlimited access to “Making Education Possible” (MEP) suite of benefits. As a MEP member you will have free access to automated degree planning so you can find the fastest path to degree completion. You will also have access to free resources and discounts.
Texas National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (STA): STA is an education benefit that provides money for college to eligible members of the Texas Military Department pursuing their educational and career goals.
Undergraduate applicants are prioritized to receive an award up to $1,000 in tuition and fees per semester. Service members in an Early Commissioning Program or students registered in a STEM degree program will have top priority. Award upgrades are possible for applicants with tuition and fee charges more than $1,000 in a semester. If approved, the upgrade maximum is the equivalent of up to 12 credit hours of tuition and mandatory fees, not to exceed $4,500.
Award amounts are based on, available funding, the number of eligible applicants for that semester and a student’s successful completion of courses.
State Tuition Assistance funding is:
-
Available for Fall and Spring academic semesters only, payments are issued only at the end of the standard Fall and Spring semesters
-
Private school awards are based on the average amount of awards for public schools each semester, which is normally around $1800 for undergraduate students and $2,000 for graduate students
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Out-of-State/ nonresident tuition charges are not eligible for reimbursement
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State tuition assistance is available for five academic years or ten semesters
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Incomplete, dropped or failed classes are not eligible for reimbursement
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Continuing education classes that do not earn academic credits do not qualify for funding
Who is eligible for STA?
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Actively drilling Service members in “Good Standing” in the Texas National Guard
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Pay grades E1-E9 (enlisted), O1-O5 (commissioned officers) and W1-W3 (warrant officers)
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Service members must be accepted and registered in a Texas qualifying college or university for a minimum of 3 semester credit hours, part-time or full-time students are eligible
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Applicants must have completed basic training prior to the start of the semester
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Service members must continue to serve through the end of the semester, the Service member’s Expiration of Term of Service (ETS) or Mandatory Retirement Date (MRD) must be after the official last day of class
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ROTC (Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty) Cadets utilizing the Room and Board scholarship option or non-scholarship contracts are eligible
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STA can be used with other federal and state tuition assistance
-
Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Service members are not eligible
-
Service members must attend a public or private college or university with headquarters in Texas, for profit schools are not eligible
-
Must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA
Learn more about the Texas National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program
Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans: The Texas Hazlewood Act provides qualified Veterans, a tuition exemption of most fee charges for up to 150 credit hours at public institutions of higher education. This does not include living expenses, books, or supply fees.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans: Veterans must meet the following requirements:
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Designated Texas as their home of record at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Texas, or was a Texas resident
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Received an honorable discharge or separation (must be indicated on the Veteran’s DD214 or certificate of release)
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Served at least 181 days on active duty (excluding training)
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Have no federal Veteran’s education benefits remaining that exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits (Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant recipients may still apply)
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Not be in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by Texas
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Enroll in classes for which the college receives tax support (meaning a course that does not depend only on student tuition and fees to cover its cost)
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Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours
Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341
Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans
Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children: The Spouse and dependent Children of certain active and reserve component Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for a tuition waiver at Texas state supported higher education institutions. Students can receive an exemption for 150 credit hours.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children? Veteran requirements for a Spouse or Child eligibility:
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Designated Texas as their home of record at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Texas, or was a Texas resident
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Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and:
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Was killed in action (KIA)
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Declared missing in action (MIA)
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Has a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability rating or is declared individually unemployable by the VA
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Died from a service-connected illness or injury
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Spouse and Children eligibility requirements:
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Not be in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by Texas
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Have no federal Veteran’s education benefits remaining that exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits, (Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant recipients may still apply)
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Texas resident for tuition purposes
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Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours, (this requirement does not apply to the Spouse or Child of a MIA, KIA, or service-connected deceased Veteran)
Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341
Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children
Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act: Veterans who are eligible for the Texas Hazlewood Act (see above) may assign unused tuition exemption hours to their Child under certain conditions. Exemptions may be used at any Texas state supported higher education institution.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act? Child eligibility requirements:
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Texas resident for tuition purposes
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Be the biological Child, stepchild, adopted Child, or claimed as a dependent in the current or previous tax year
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25 years old or younger on the first day of the semester or term that the exemption is claimed (unless granted an extension due to a qualifying illness or debilitating condition)
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Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours
Legacy recipients will receive an exemption for the number of degree certified hours. The maximum number of hours awarded depends on the degree or certificate program and should be within the normal length of time to complete their degree or receive their certificate.
If a Child does not use all the assigned hours, a Veteran may re-assign the unused hours to another dependent Child. Only one Child can use the Hazlewood Act at a time.
Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341
Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act
Click the image for more information
There are two types of scholarships available. The CSM Virgil R. Williams and the Patriot Scholarships are paid by EANGUS directly to the school the selectee is attending. The second type of scholarship is presented by specific universities that EANGUS has partnered with. The links to each scholarship will be located below. The tabs below provide details for each scholarship along with the requirements, please review each tab to determine which scholarship(s) are the most appropriate for your future, prior to applying. If at any time you have questions, please contact scholarship@eangus.org and someone will respond to your inquiry or request for assistance.
Click the image for more information
Scholarships
Scholarship for NGAUS active life and digital life members and their family members
The AFBA NGAUS Active Life Member Scholarship awards two $5,000 scholarships every July to Active Life members of NGAUS or dependents of Active Life members seeking an undergraduate, graduate or post-graduate degree. The applicant must be a full-time student.
The application period for this scholarship is now closed.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WOUNDED GUARDSMEN
Guard soldiers and airmen who were wounded in an operational or training mission during the Global War on Terrorism are eligible for a $1,000 college scholarship from the Van Hipp Heroes Scholarship Fund.
Established in 2015, Van Hipp donates 100% of the proceeds from his book, The New Terrorism: How to Fight It and Defeat It to The Van Hipp Heroes Scholarship Fund. This initiative is administered by the National Guard Educational Foundation.
The application period for this scholarship is now closed.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GUARD CHILDREN
Do you know the child of a National Guardsman who was killed in the Global War on Terrorism who is now attending college or planning on attending college soon? If so, they may be eligible for a Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship of up to $6,250 annually. Administered by the National Guard Educational Foundation, the fund has provided more than $500,000 in scholarships over the last 10 years.
Since September 11, 2001, nearly 800 Guardsmen have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terrorism. These heroes left behind more than 1,000 children. Established in 2011 and underwritten by Leonardo DRS, the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund provides college scholarships to the children of National Guardsmen who have been lost in service to our nation since 9/11. Over the past decade, NGEF has awarded more than 100 scholarships to students through the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund.
The application period for this scholarship is now closed.
EDUCATING THE MILITARY IS OUR #1 MISSION
Take the challenge others won’t. Make your next mission an affordable, flexible, accessible education, choosing from 200+ programs at American Military University (AMU).
AMU offers our Freedom Grant® to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, and Reservists, providing the freedom to pursue undergraduate and master’s-level education for potentially ZERO out-of-pocket tuition. Move with a purpose at AMU, where you may be able to turn your military service into academic credit.
AMU is part of American Public University System accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
RISE TO THE CHALLENGE WITH FELLOW SERVICEMEMBERS
AMU proudly serves all branches of the military, as well as military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
A UNIVERSITY THAT’S GOT YOUR SIX
A TEAM APPROACH
Military education managers are located near military installations around the U.S. and available virtually for servicemembers overseas. Our academic advisors are available seven days a week. They work with you to help you reach your goals. Contact us to find a rep near you.
TA AND GI BILL® HELP
Our trained financial aid advisors help you navigate and maximize your military tuition assistance (TA) and other options, like federal student aid and the Post-9/11 GI Bill®
SUPPORTIVE
Veterans work on our faculty and staff. They bring their battle-tested knowledge and experience from the military, government, and defense sectors. We also have a staff chaplain to support you when you need it most.
We admire and appreciate your service to our country. Now, at Indiana Wesleyan, we want to serve you and are committed to guiding you each step of the way. Navigate through this tutorial to learn about how to put your VA benefit(s) to great use at IWU.
Follow these 3 simple steps to help you use your VA benefit(s):
- Review information about your benefit(s) by visiting the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs website
- Connect with a VA Case Worker at 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) or the VA’s website
- Contact our expert School Certifying Officials
Financial Help for Military
IWU offers specific financial assistance for active-duty military students, their spouses, and veteran students. Preferred tuition is extended to these students who are enrolled in IWU Online and Graduate programs; including programs offered through evening and Saturday instruction at regional education centers throughout Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Some programs are not eligible for the preferred tuition rate. For more information, visit the Military Preferred Tuition page.
All military students who are currently enrolled or intend on becoming a student at Indiana Wesleyan University, are encouraged to complete the Military Preferred Tuition Application and return it to their enrollment representative for processing or email IWU.MilitaryTuition@indwes.edu.
Scholarships for veterans and much more: From M.O.S. to career success
Lincoln Tech is honored to assist our nation’s Service Members.
From dedicated military student support teams to scholarships for veterans, our schools are ready to serve those who have so honorably served our country. Lincoln Tech was created in 1946 to be a resource for returning veterans from World War II. When servicemen and women came home from overseas theaters, they needed skills that would allow them to transition back into the civilian workforce with steady, rewarding jobs to provide for their families. Our first Lincoln school, in Newark, NJ, filled that need with hands-on HVAC training.
More than 75 years later, we hold that same commitment to veterans transitioning to civilian life after serving with honor in the Armed Forces. As a veteran, you have demonstrated dedication, discipline, and motivation that will be invaluable assets to employers anxious to build their workforce. We would be proud to help you build career skills to match those qualities so that when hiring managers want to add new members to their teams, you will be the person they are looking for.
Scholarships for veterans for a broad range of career paths
We know that returning to civilian life may not be easy, but you can count on Lincoln Tech to help you through it. Our campuses are staffed with knowledgeable admissions and financial aid specialists who can help you decide how to best use the benefits you’ve earned, such as the Montgomery GI Bill®, Post 9/11 GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program and more. You can apply those benefits toward career training in one of several areas:
Military Benefits & Discounts
SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, plus military benefits and discounts of up to 30% for U.S Active Duty, National Guard and Selected Reserve and the spouses of those on active duty. We also accept Tuition Assistance (TA), Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Montgomery GI Bill® benefits, and scholarships for spouses through MyCAA programs. SNHU is proud to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Plus, take advantage of:
- 200+ Career-Focused Programs: Associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees that help position you for the jobs you want.
- Online Flexibility: Access your coursework online 24/7 so you can learn on your schedule.
- A University You Can Trust: as a private, nonprofit, student success is our one mission. It guides who we are, and who we partner with.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by the VA is available at the official U.S. government website.
Military Accessibility
Disabilities
At SNHU, our mission is to make education accessible to everyone. If you need assistance completing your coursework, our Online Accessibility Center will work with you and your instructor to address your needs and concerns.
Deployment
As a longtime military supporter, SNHU’s online programs were designed to meet the needs of our service members. You can take classes whether at home or deployed, and you’ll be able to count on support from our dedicated advising team with a strong military background.
NGAT Members Save Time & Money with SpeedyPrep!
Join thousands who have signed up to pass their CLEP – GUARANTEED.
What is CLEP? And, Why SpeedyPrep?
Graduate From a Non-Profit Military-Friendly University
For those who serve, those who have served, and their family members: WGU is proud to play our part in supporting you and your family’s future. WGU has received the Military Friendly School designation for the 12th consecutive year.
For 2022-2023 we have also been ranked as the #1 online school by Military Friendly. So far this year, we have awarded nearly $1 million in scholarships to military and veteran students and their families.
- Flexibility. Our degrees are designed to fit your life—even a military family’s life!
- Portability. Online and recognized nationwide, we go where you go.
- Relevance. Leading employers help develop our curriculum. So your degree has real value!
- Affordability. Approved for VA benefits and Tuition Assistance. Tuition so low, benefits often cover the full cost of attending WGU.
Flat-rate per-term tuition
The Scholarships for Military Children Program was created to recognize military families’ contributions to the fighting force’s readiness and to celebrate the commissary’s role in the military family community.
Our 2023 Winners are posted here!
The online application for the 2024-2025 Academic Year will open in mid-December 2023. Until then, please visit our search engine at search.militaryscholar.org for more scholarship opportunities.
The Scholarships for Military Children program intends that a scholarship funded through contributions be awarded annually at each commissary operated by the Defense Commissary Agency worldwide.
Five hundred (500) scholarship grants, each for $2,000, will be awarded for the academic school year 2023-2024. There is at least one recipient selected at every commissary location where qualified applications are received. Additional recipients are chosen on a prorated basis. Therefore, more applicants may be selected from those commissaries with more significant numbers of applicants.
Who Can Apply?
The Scholarships for Military Children program is open to unmarried military dependent children under the age 23 who possess a valid Uniformed Services Identification (USID) card. In addition, a student’s parent(s)/sponsor(s) must be one of the following: active duty, reserve/guard, deceased, or retired from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Space Force.
- Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate program leading to a bachelor’s degree or a community/junior college designed to allow for a direct transfer into a four-year program.
- High school applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 basis).
- College applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. College freshmen must submit a first-semester college transcript.
- Applicants or sponsors do not need to live at an installation with a commissary – simply select the commissary where you shop or the one nearest to you.
How Do I Apply?
The Scholarships for Military Children Program expects that the student completes the application themselves and they must attest to this when submitting the application.
- Create an account that you can later come back to.
- Complete all tabs of the form – a green checkmark indicates completion.
- Write a short 500-word essay – the essay topic will be announced when the scholarship opens.
- Submit transcripts
- High school applicants – transcript indicating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale (unweighted)
- College applicants – transcript indicating a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale (unweighted)
- You must validate your eligibility as a military dependent by entering the benefits number found on the reverse of the Uniformed Services Identification (USID) card. If you qualify for an ID card but do not have one, immediately schedule a visit to a military personnel office with the proper documentation.
Scholarships for Military Dependents and Families
In many ways, military families serve alongside their loved ones. They frequently move so they can all stay together. They endure deployments that place their loved ones in harm’s way. They support their service members at home and while they are on a mission. As of 2018, military families included over 2.6 million spouses and dependents.
Military spouses and military children often face unique challenges when it comes to pursuing a college degree. Frequent moves can complicate completing a degree, and military spouses may find it difficult to gain occupational licensing in a new state. Children may end up applying to college with a hodgepodge of transcripts from multiple high schools.
Fortunately, scholarships for military dependents recognize the sacrifices of military families. Learn more about the financial challenges these families face. And find out about benefits, scholarships, and grants for military spouses dependents.
25 Great Scholarships for Members of the Military and Their Families
One way companies help our service members is by establishing college scholarships. Members of the military and their loved ones volunteer their time to serve in the armed forces. And these scholarship programs ensure they do not have to also sacrifice their dreams of getting a college education.
Whether you are an active-duty military member, spouse, or service member’s child, there are scholarships for you. In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the most generous scholarships available for all military branches.
Keep in mind these scholarships and grants for active duty military personnel also include assistance for other groups as well. This list is comprised of scholarship opportunities for veterans, retired military members, their spouses, and dependents, too.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
One overlooked program is the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Under this program, members of the military who have been employed by the military or a qualifying public service job for the last 10 years may have their federal student loans FULLY discharged. Qualifying jobs include.
** Emergency management
** Military service
** Public safety
** Law enforcement
** Public interest law services
** Early childhood education (including licensed or regulated child care, Head Start, and state-funded pre-kindergarten)
Public service for individuals with disabilities and the elderly
** Public health (including nurses, nurse practitioners, nurses in a clinical setting, and full-time professionals engaged in health care practitioner occupations and health care support occupations)
** Public education
** Public library services
** School library or other school-based services
You need to be employed in these position at least full-time, which is considered to be at least 30 hours a week or what the employer considers to be full-time.
The benefit of this program is it allows you to discharge your debt after it has been consolidated for a low payment. You can use the online student loan consolidation calculator here.
The way the program works is that after making 120 monthly and on-time consolidated and reduced payments, your remaining balance will be forgiven.
Not all student loans are eligible for consolidation. Private student loans are excluded. Loans that are eligible to be consolidated can be found here.
Direct Loan payments that qualify include.
** The Income Based Repayment (IBR) Plan
** The Income Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan
** The Standard Repayment Plan, with a 10-year repayment period
** Any other Direct Loan repayment plan, but only payments that are at least equal to the monthly payment amount that would have been paid under the Standard Repayment Plan with a 10-year repayment period may be counted toward the required 120 monthly payments. (February 3, 2010)
And you may actually be able to have zero dollar loan payments count toward your required 120 payments. If you qualify for a zero monthly payment under the Income Based Repayment or Income Contingent Repayment programs, then those payments, or lack thereof, will actually count. Pretty cool, huh?
For more information on this program, read this publication by the U.S. Department of Education.
What is the FAFSA® form and why should I fill it out?
You need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for federal student aid such as federal grants, work-study funds, and loans. Completing and submitting the FAFSA form is free and easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of aid to help you pay for college or career school.
In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid. Some private aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.
The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation
The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation was established by Congress in 1986 to serve as a living memorial to honor the lifetime work of Senator Barry Goldwater, who served his country for 56 years as a soldier and statesman, including 30 years in the U.S. Senate.
By providing scholarships to college sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering, the Goldwater Foundation is helping ensure that the U.S. is producing the number of highly-qualified professionals the Nation needs in these critical fields. Over its 30-year history, Goldwater Scholarships have been awarded to thousands of undergraduates, many of whom have gone on to win other prestigious awards like the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Fellowship, Rhodes Scholarship, Churchill Scholarship and the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship that support our Scholars’ graduate school work. Today, Goldwater alumni can be found conducting research that is helping defend the Nation, finding cures for catastrophic diseases and teaching future generations of scientists, mathematicians and engineers.
College Board is a mission-driven not-for-profit organization that connects students to college success and opportunity. Founded in 1900, College Board was created to expand access to higher education. Today, the membership association is made up of over 6,000 of the world’s leading educational institutions and is dedicated to promoting excellence and equity in education. Each year, College Board helps more than seven million students prepare for a successful transition to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success—including the SAT, the Advanced Placement Program, and BigFuture. The organization also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators, and schools.
Featured Online Accredited Programs
Our partner schools offer programs that help you advance your education while accommodating your schedule. Visit their sites to learn more about degrees, course offerings, start dates, transfer of credits, and more.
State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI)
Group Term Insurance
This is a low-cost group term life insurance policy which provides coverage on the member, their spouse, and their dependent children. Starting at $3.66 a month for $10,000 policy.
Free $10,000 Life Insurance
NGAT is proud to offer you a benefit of a $10,000 life insurance policy. This policy is offered to new enlistees of the Texas National Guard. Enrollment needs to be completed within 90 days of your enlistment to take advantage of this offer.
Free $1,000 Life Insurance
All currently serving members of the Texas Army and Air National Guard are automatically covered with a FREE $1,000 NGAT Life Insurance policy.
Fed Protect
Low cost Group Level Term Life Insurance for current and former members of the Texas National Guard and Texas State Guard between the ages of 18-75 are eligible to apply with coverage continuing through age 121.
Want to join NGAT?
The National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) appears before various state and national legislative committees to speak on behalf of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Texas Military Forces. This is why your membership is so important. The greater our membership numbers, the more influence NGAT can bring to the political decision-makers and continue the fight on top issues affecting you and your family. Join NGAT today and make a real difference in the fight for your benefits and your future as a member of the Texas Military Forces.