Do Kids of Veterans Get Free College?
As a child of a veteran, you may be wondering if you’re eligible for free college tuition. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors and programs. In this article, we’ll break down the different options and benefits available to children of veterans.
What is the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and how does it affect children of veterans?
The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) is a program that provides education benefits to eligible veterans and their dependents. The MGIB is a monthly stipend that can be used for tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses. However, the MGIB does not cover the full cost of tuition, and the amount of the stipend varies depending on the individual’s circumstances.
Children of veterans may be eligible for the MGIB if their parent is a veteran who has at least 90 days of active duty service after September 10, 2001. To be eligible, the child must be:
- Under the age of 26
- A biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of the veteran
- Enrolled in a degree-granting program at a college or university
- Taking at least 12 credit hours per semester
What is the Post-9/11 GI Bill and how does it affect children of veterans?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a more comprehensive education benefit program that provides up to 100% tuition coverage for public colleges and universities. The program also offers a monthly stipend for living expenses and a book stipend.
Children of veterans may be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill if their parent is a veteran who has at least 90 days of active duty service after September 10, 2001. To be eligible, the child must be:
- Under the age of 26
- A biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of the veteran
- Enrolled in a degree-granting program at a college or university
- Taking at least 12 credit hours per semester
Other education benefits for children of veterans
In addition to the MGIB and Post-9/11 GI Bill, there are other education benefits available to children of veterans. These include:
- Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA): A program that provides education benefits to the dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or have died as a result of their military service.
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (SDEA): A program that provides education benefits to the dependents of veterans who have died or are permanently and totally disabled as a result of their military service.
- Veterans’ Education Assistance Program (VEAP): A program that allows veterans to set aside a portion of their military pay to be used for education expenses.
How to apply for education benefits as a child of a veteran
To apply for education benefits as a child of a veteran, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Gather required documents: You’ll need to provide proof of your parent’s military service, your relationship to the veteran, and your enrollment in a degree-granting program.
- Fill out the application: You can apply online or by mail using VA Form 22-5490 (Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance).
- Submit supporting documentation: You’ll need to provide additional documentation, such as your parent’s DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) and your enrollment certification from your college or university.
- Wait for processing: The VA will review your application and notify you of your eligibility and the amount of your education benefits.
Conclusion
As a child of a veteran, you may be eligible for education benefits that can help you pay for college. The Montgomery GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and other programs offer a range of benefits, including tuition coverage, stipends, and book stipends. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, you can take advantage of these benefits and achieve your educational goals.
Table: Education Benefits for Children of Veterans
| Program | Eligibility | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery GI Bill | Child of a veteran with at least 90 days of active duty service after September 10, 2001 | Monthly stipend for tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses |
| Post-9/11 GI Bill | Child of a veteran with at least 90 days of active duty service after September 10, 2001 | Up to 100% tuition coverage for public colleges and universities, monthly stipend for living expenses, and book stipend |
| Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) | Dependent of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled or has died as a result of their military service | Education benefits for dependents |
| Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (SDEA) | Dependent of a veteran who has died or is permanently and totally disabled as a result of their military service | Education benefits for dependents |
| Veterans’ Education Assistance Program (VEAP) | Veteran who has set aside a portion of their military pay for education expenses | Education benefits for veterans |
Bullets: Key Points to Remember
• Children of veterans may be eligible for education benefits through the Montgomery GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and other programs.
• Eligibility requirements vary depending on the program and the individual’s circumstances.
• Education benefits can help pay for tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.
• The application process typically involves gathering required documents, filling out an application, and submitting supporting documentation.
• The VA will review your application and notify you of your eligibility and the amount of your education benefits.
