Will Military Pay for Law School?
If you’re considering pursuing a law degree while serving in the military, you might be wondering if the government will cover the costs of law school. The short answer is: it’s possible, but it’s not a straightforward process.
What are the benefits of attending law school in the military?
Pursuing a law degree while serving in the military can have numerous benefits:
- Education benefits: The military offers education benefits, such as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and the Military Tuition Assistance (TA), which can help cover law school expenses.
- Leadership opportunities: The military provides opportunities to advance in rank and develop leadership skills, which can translate to a successful career after law school.
- Practical experience: You’ll have the chance to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, gaining hands-on experience in legal cases and procedures.
- Networking opportunities: You’ll have the chance to network with other military personnel and legal professionals, potentially opening doors to future job opportunities.
How does the military pay for law school?
The military doesn’t directly pay for law school, but you can leverage education benefits and scholarships to cover some or all of the costs. Here’s a breakdown of the education benefits you may be eligible for:
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB):
- Basic allowance for housing (BAH): $2,500 per month
- Book stipend: $1,000 per year
- Tuition: Limited to $20,635 per year
- Post-9/11 GI Bill:
- Tuition and fees: Up to $24,476 per year
- Living stipend: Up to $2,704.36 per month
- Military Tuition Assistance (TA):
- Up to 100% tuition coverage
Scholarships available to military law students:
In addition to education benefits, there are scholarships available specifically for military law students:
- JAG Corps Scholarship: Covers full tuition and fees for law students pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, with a focus on service as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer after graduation.
- Armed Forces Commissioned Officer Opportunities (AFCOOPs) Scholarship: Awards $10,000 per year to students pursuing a law degree with plans to serve as an Armed Forces officer.
- National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) Scholarship: Provides $2,500 per year to law students who have a strong commitment to serving military veterans and their families.
How to apply for education benefits and scholarships:
To take advantage of these benefits and scholarships, follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility: Research the eligibility requirements for the education benefits and scholarships that interest you.
- Apply for education benefits: Submit your application to the relevant education benefit program (e.g., MGIB, Post-9/11 GI Bill, or TA).
- Search for scholarships: Look for scholarships specifically for military law students, such as those mentioned above.
- Submit scholarship applications: Follow the application instructions for each scholarship you’re interested in.
- Monitor your applications: Track the status of your applications and follow up with the relevant organizations if necessary.
Comparison of education benefits and scholarships:
Here’s a comparison of the education benefits and scholarships mentioned above:
| Benefit/Scholarship | Tuition | Fees | Living Stipend | Book Stipend | Other Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MGIB | $20,635 | Limited | – | $1,000 | BAH |
| Post-9/11 GI Bill | $24,476 | Limited | Up to $2,704.36 | – | – |
| Military Tuition Assistance (TA) | Up to 100% | Limited | – | – | – |
| JAG Corps Scholarship | Full tuition | Fees | – | – | Service commitment |
| Armed Forces Commissioned Officer Opportunities (AFCOOPs) Scholarship | – | – | – | – | $10,000 per year |
| National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) Scholarship | – | – | – | – | $2,500 per year |
Conclusion:
While the military doesn’t directly pay for law school, you can leverage education benefits and scholarships to cover some or all of the costs. By researching and applying for these benefits and scholarships, you can maximize your financial aid and take advantage of the opportunities that come with pursuing a law degree while serving in the military.
