Military spouses grants can be a vital source of financial assistance, but unfortunately, many people don’t bother applying because they think they won’t qualify. The good news is that there are all sorts of different grants available, and almost everyone is eligible for at least one of them.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about military spouses grants and how to get the most out of every opportunity.
What Are Military Spouses Grants?
Military spouses grants are financial assistance programs specifically for military spouses. The military spouses grants programs can come from a variety of sources, including private organizations, state and local governments, and the military itself.
Grants can be used for a variety of purposes, such as furthering education, starting a business, or relocating to a new duty station. The best way to find out about available grants is to do your own research—but this article can serve as a good starting point.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of military spouse grants and tell you how to get the most out of every opportunity.
How To Locate Military Spouses Grants
There are a few different ways to locate military spouses grants. The best way to start is by checking with your installation’s Family Support Center or Military and Family Readiness Center (MFRC). Both of these organizations have teams dedicated to helping military families locate every type of available grant and assistance program.
You can also conduct a web search for “military spouses grants.” This will bring up a variety of websites that list different grants available to military spouses.
Finally, you can check with companies that offer military spouses grants specifically for military spouses. These include the National Military Family Association and the Military Officers Association of America.
How To Apply For Military Spouses Grants
Applying for a military spouse grant is a fairly straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Each military spouses grants will have its own set of specific requirements, so be sure to read the guidelines thoroughly.
In general, you’ll likely need to provide proof of military spouse status, as well as verification of your academic or professional achievements. Make sure you have all your paperwork in order and submit your application on time.
If you’re not sure where to start, our team can help! We can connect you with the best military spouses grants for your unique situation and help you every step of the way.
The following are some military spouse grants that you can have access to:
1. ThanksUSA Scholarship Program
ThanksUSA has given out 5,000 scholarships worth more than $16 million to students from all 50 states and every branch of the military since 2006.
ThanksUSA awards $3,000 scholarships to military members’ and Veterans’ spouses and college-aged children.
Check to see whether any of your unused Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits can be transferred to your spouse or dependent children.
If you’re on active duty or in the Selected Reserve and meet all of these qualifications, you might be able to transfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
3. The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Scholarships
The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Education Program provides grants and interest-free loans to students pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree at a recognized two- or four-year post-secondary, technical, or vocational institution in the United States. Children of active duty, retired, or deceased Sailors and Marines, spouses of active duty and retired Sailors and Marines, and active duty Sailors and Marines enrolling in the MECEP or MECP programs are eligible for financial support.
4. The Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Program
Individuals who work for the United States Coast Guard and their immediate family members are eligible for help via this program. Such individuals could fall in any of the following categories:
- Active Duty
- Auxiliary
- Civilian Employees
- Reserve
- Retirees
READ ALSO: 8 Cool Scholarships and Grants for Nurse Practitioners
5. National Military Family Association Spouse Scholarships
Since 2004, the National Military Family Association has supported military spouses by providing scholarships to help with everything from GEDs to PhDs, professional licenses and certifications, including re-licensure, business and entrepreneurial expenses, supervised clinical hours, continuing education courses, and more.
You’ll gain more than just money if you get an NMFA scholarship. Our team is committed to assisting you in achieving your goals. You’ll be part of an elite group of spouse recipients, have access to secret Facebook groups where you can network, and be a part of a particular community with whom you can count on throughout your career.
You may be eligible for this benefit if your parent or spouse died in the line of duty while serving in one of the Armed Forces on or after September 11, 2001, or was a member of the Selected Reserve who died from a service-connected disability.
7. The VA Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program
The DEA program, also known as Chapter 35, may be able to help you pay for school or job training if you’re the child or spouse of a Veteran or military member who has died, is captured or missing, or has disabilities. These benefits are available courtesy of the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
8. Wings Over America Scholarship Foundation
Over $2 million has been awarded by the Wings Over America Scholarship Foundation to deserving students in almost every state, as well as several overseas facilities.
Community college, trade and technical school, and regular college scholarships are also available. They offer annual and renewable scholarships, as well as administering funds for other naval aviation organizations.
WOASF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest degree permitted by law.
9. Coast Guard Foundation Scholarships
As part of their dedication to the men and women of the United States Coast Guard and their families, the Coast Guard Foundation is committed to supporting education.
Their scholarships are one way we honor their heroic men and women for their unwavering commitment to our country, while also guaranteeing that their family members can pursue their higher education ambitions.
How To Make The Most Of Your Military Spouses Grant
Applying for a military spouses grant can be a great way to get the financial help you need. But it’s important to make the most of every opportunity. Here are a few tips:
1. Read the eligibility requirements thoroughly and make sure you meet them.
2. Start by completing the free application.
3. Be thorough and honest in your responses.
4. Follow up on any requests for additional information.
5. Keep your application updated, especially if your situation changes.
6. Thank the organization once you’ve received the grant.
Can military spouses get financial aid?
Of course, they can! Military spouse tuition assistance are available for spouses of US military men and women.
How much money do military spouses get?
This depends on the program you applied for.
Can a military spouse get a Pell Grant?
Pell grants military spouses can also help you get a college degree.
What Military Spouse Scholarships are Available for College?
Also, there are a number of scholarships for military spouses 2022 options available to you. And some of them have been highlighted in this article.
Can Military Spouses Get Tuition Assistance?
You definitely can! Just check this post to find out more.
Tips For Writing Military Spouses Grant Essays
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when writing your grant essay:
1. Be concise and specific. Your essay should be clear and to the point, without being too wordy.
2. Stay positive. Even if you’ve faced some challenges, focus on the positives and what you’ve learned from them.
3. Make sure your essay is well-written and proofread. Typos and errors will only reflect poorly on you.
4. Follow the instructions carefully. Make sure you answer all of the questions asked, and that your essay is formatted correctly.
5. Stay organized. Develop a clear structure for your essay, and make sure all of your points are easy to follow.
Conclusion
Applying for a military spouses grant can seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, you can make the most of every opportunity. By understanding what military spouses grants are, and how to find and apply for them, you can ensure that you get the financial support you need.
Additionally, by taking advantage of all the resources available to you and being proactive in your search, you can make the most of every military spouses grants opportunity.