Scholarships for Military Spouses: Tips and Tricks to Find, Apply for and Get the Best Scholarships for You
Scholarships and education assistance are available for military spouses seeking education. Read on to learn how to cash in on these opportunities.
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Military spouses often face unique challenges when pursuing higher education due to the demands of military life. Fortunately, a wide range of scholarships is available specifically for military spouses to support their academic and career aspirations. This guide consolidates information on top scholarships and provides tips to help you secure the funding you need.
Why Scholarships Are Ideal for Military Spouses
Scholarships are one of the best ways to fund your education because they don’t need to be repaid. By applying for scholarships tailored to military spouses, you can significantly reduce your financial burden and focus on achieving your academic goals.
Tips for Finding and Applying for Scholarships
With thousands of scholarships available throughout the year, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to look and how to decide what scholarships to apply to.
Here are seven tips to help you get started on your search for scholarship money.
Tip #1: Know Where to Look
The first step in your scholarship search is identifying the right resources. Focus on military support organizations and nonprofit foundations. These groups often dedicate funds to military families.
Another tactic is to search school websites directly or call their Veteran resource centers. For example, I searched the University of Tennessee’s website and quickly found this page, which had resources for military spouses and listed an active scholarship.
Lastly, explore scholarship databases, especially those tailored to military communities. Websites like MilitaryScholar.org or Fastweb.com list both general and military-specific scholarship programs. You can refine these searches by criteria such as deadlines, eligibility, and fields of interest, ensuring you find the most relevant opportunities for your personal and professional goals.
Tip #2: Think Beyond Military-Specific Scholarships
Many scholarships are available for students with diverse backgrounds, such as first-generation college students or community service enthusiasts. Don’t limit yourself to only military-related scholarships.
Tip #3: Focus Locally
Check with local businesses, community organizations, and spouses’ clubs that may offer small, under-utilized scholarships.
Tip #4: Dedicate Time to Applications
Treat applying for scholarships as a part-time job. Dedicate time to crafting high-quality applications that stand out.
Tip #5: Customize Your Application
Tailor your resume, essays, and personal statements to match the specific requirements of each scholarship.
Tip #6: Apply for Federal Aid
Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your eligibility for federal grants and additional scholarships.
Tip #7: Perfect Your Grammar
Submit polished and error-free applications to leave a positive impression on reviewers.
Top Scholarships for Military Spouses
Here are some of the best scholarships available for military spouses:
Military-Specific Scholarships
My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Scholarship
- Who: Spouses of active-duty service members in grades E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-2.
- What: Up to $4,000 for licenses, certifications, or associate degrees.
- When: Applications accepted year-round.
National Military Family Association (NMFA) Spouse Scholarships
- Who: Spouses with a valid military ID.
- What: Awards averaging $1,000 for education and employment pursuits.
- When: Applications open year-round.
Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarships
- Who: Spouses of veterans or active service members.
- What: Funding for academic expenses.
- When: Applications close February 1.
Army Emergency Relief (AER) Spouse Education Assistance Program
- Who: Spouses of active-duty and retired soldiers.
- What: Need-based scholarships for undergraduate degrees.
- When: Applications typically accepted January 1–April 1.
ThanksUSA Military Spouse Scholarship
- Who: Military spouses pursuing their first undergraduate degree.
- What: $3,000 scholarships.
- When: Applications accepted March 1–April 15
Maximizing Your Education Benefits
Whether you choose to use your military benefits or pay for your higher education with scholarships and savings, it’s important to understand your education benefits.
Other Notable Scholarships
Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver Scholarships
- Who: Spouses or caregivers of wounded service members.
- What: Awards vary by need and academic goals.
- When: Deadlines vary; check their website.
Delta Dental Grants
- Who: Military spouses advancing education in oral health and wellness.
- What: $2,000 scholarships.
- When: Applications open December 1–April 30.
Wings Over America Scholarship Foundation
- Who: Spouses of Navy personnel in aviation ratings.
- What: Award amounts vary.
- When: Prequalification deadline is February 1.
FRA Education Foundation Scholarships
- Who: Spouses associated with the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
- What: Up to $5,000 for various education levels.
- When: Applications open September 1–April 15.
Additional Resources for Military Spouses
- GI Bill Transfer Benefits: Service members can transfer unused Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to their spouse.
- Military OneSource: Offers resources for education and career planning
