If you’re part of a military family—whether you’re an active‑duty service member, veteran, spouse, or dependent—there are a number of excellent scholarship opportunities designed with you in mind. This guide explores key scholarships for military families and veterans, outlines typical eligibility requirements, and gives you useful tips to boost your chances of success.
Top Scholarship Opportunities for Military Families & Veterans
Here are some of the standout scholarship programs:
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Scholarships for Military Children Program: Open to unmarried children (under age 23) of active, reserve/guard, retired or deceased military personnel across Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Space Force. Applicants must plan to enroll full‑time in undergraduate studies. (fisherhouse.org)
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Gilman‑McCain Scholarship: A study‑abroad scholarship for child and spousal dependents of active or activated U.S. military personnel. Provides awards of about $5,000. (gilmanscholarship.org)
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AMVETS Scholarships: Offers scholarships to veterans, active duty military members, dependents and grandchildren of veterans. (Chez Center)
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Military Spouse Scholarships (via e.g. National Military Family Association): Supports spouses of service members or veterans with education or career‑related funding. (National Military Family Association)
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General Military & Veteran Scholarships List: A broad list of scholarships for service members, veterans, spouses & dependents. (U.S. Veterans Magazine)
Who Qualifies and What Are the Requirements?
While each scholarship has its own rules, some common themes apply:
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Relation to military service: e.g., child or spouse of active duty, veteran, reservist or deceased service member.
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Status of service: active duty, reserve, National Guard, retired, deceased in some cases.
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Enrollment in an accredited institution: undergraduate, vocational/trade or graduate studies.
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Minimum GPA or academic standards: many require a certain GPA or show of academic achievement. For example, the Scholarships for Military Children Program requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for high school applicants and 2.5 for college applicants. (fisherhouse.org)
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Full‑time or part‑time enrollment depending on the award.
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Financial need may be considered in some cases.
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For some programs (like study abroad scholarships), you must have an approved program or internship. (gilmanscholarship.org)
Why These Scholarships Matter
Military families face unique challenges: frequent moves, deployments, transitions, and the sacrifices of service. Scholarships created specifically for them recognize those realities and help relieve educational costs so that family members can focus on learning and growth. These awards are not only financial assistance but a way of honoring service.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
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Start early! Many deadlines are months ahead of the academic year.
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Read the eligibility criteria carefully. Ensure you meet relationship, service status, enrollment and GPA requirements.
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Prepare your documents in advance. Transcripts, service‑member verification (DD214, LES), letters of recommendation, essays.
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Tailor your application. Show how your family’s military connection has shaped your goals, resilience, service mindset or academic path.
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Apply to more than one. Even within military‑focused scholarships, there are many eligible ones. Don’t rely on just one.
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Follow up. After submission, verify your application was received and hold on to a copy of everything.
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Take advantage of additional benefits. Many military educational resource sites offer guidance, free counseling or workshops. For example, Military OneSource offers tools for military‑connected students. (Military OneSource)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are scholarships for military families only for active duty members?
A: No. Many scholarships include active duty, reservists, National Guard, retired service members, veterans and sometimes surviving spouses or children of deceased in service. Each program defines its eligible status.
Q: Can military spouses apply for scholarships designed for military families?
A: Yes. There are multiple programs specifically for military spouses seeking education or career training. For instance, the National Military Family Association’s spouse scholarships allow funds for tuition, licensure/certification costs or professional development. (National Military Family Association)
Q: What GPA do I need for military‑family scholarships?
A: It varies. Some require a high GPA (e.g., 3.0) while others have lower thresholds (e.g., 2.5) or none at all. Always check the specific scholarship’s eligibility page. For example, the Scholarships for Military Children Program requires at least 3.0 for high school applicants and 2.5 for college applicants. (fisherhouse.org)
Q: Can veterans themselves apply for these scholarships?
A: Yes. Some scholarships are for veterans and their dependents. Check for “veterans” in the eligibility criteria. The lists of military scholarships include programs for veterans and their families. (Chez Center)
Q: Do these scholarships cover graduate degrees?
A: Some do, but many are focused on undergraduate or trade/technical studies. Always verify whether the scholarship supports graduate level study. Some programs such as the comprehensive lists mention graduate eligibility. (Point University)
Q: Do I have to repay these scholarships?
A: No. Scholarships are awards that do not need to be repaid (unlike loans). However, you may need to comply with usage rules (such as full‑time enrollment) and maintain a certain GPA or status for some awards.
If you’re a member of a military family—whether as a veteran, active duty service member, spouse or dependent—don’t overlook the specialized scholarship opportunities available to you. With tailored programs, recognition of your family’s service, and many good options, there’s a strong chance of securing assistance that can ease the burden of higher education. Begin your search, gather your documentation, apply early and often—and take full advantage of these opportunities.