According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the enactment of the Post-9/11 GI Bill® and the withdrawal of military personnel from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have led to a significant increase in the number of veterans and service members using military benefits to continue their education. The Post-9/11 GI Bill is just one example of the many programs and financial aid opportunities available to military veterans and their families as they pursue a postsecondary degree in criminal justice.
Active-duty personnel, reservists, and veterans may apply for benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill® instead, or pursue additional aid through the Yellow Ribbon Program or the National Call to Service
Active-duty personnel, reservists, and veterans may apply for benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill instead, or pursue additional aid through the Yellow Ribbon Program or the National Call to Service. The federal government also provides financial support to military families through the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program.
On top of government support, current and former members of the armed forces can apply to a variety of private scholarships as well. Some scholarship programs cater specifically to members or veterans of a particular branch, while others award scholarships to military veterans who plan to pursue a career in law enforcement or corrections. Take a close look below at the various forms of financial aid that you may be able to receive in recognition of your service.
Financial Aid Programs for Military and Veterans
| The Montgomery GI Bill is one of the two main education benefit programs available to veterans and military personnel. It provides up to $2,078 per month for a maximum of 36 months. Students receive this monthly allotment directly and can use it to pay for tuition, books, and other related education expenses. | |
| What's Covered | Students receive between $482 and $1,928 per month, depending on their enrollment status. Service members can receive an additional $150 per month by participating in a buy-up program. The government provides this funding for a maximum of 36 months. |
|---|---|
| Who's Covered | Active-duty personnel must enroll in the program and pay at least $100 per month for 12 months in order to receive these benefits. They must also meet minimum service requirements and receive an honorable discharge. |
| How to Apply | Veterans and service members can apply through the VA's website by completing form VA 22-1990. In addition to service requirements, you must also have a high school diploma or GED to qualify for this program. |
Scholarships for Military and Veterans
U.S. Army Scholarships
Who Can Apply: To apply, you must be a woman who has served or is serving in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, or Army National Guard. You must also have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to pursue either a bachelor's or graduate degree.
U.S. Navy Scholarships
Who Can Apply: To apply, you must be a former member of the submarine force or have served in submarine support activities. The foundation awards these scholarships for veterans based on academic performance, community service, and financial need.
U.S. Air Force Scholarships
Who Can Apply: This grant supports active-duty members of the Air Force, along with Air Force reservists, veterans, spouses, and dependents. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be enrolled at an accredited college or university.
U.S. Marine Corps Scholarships
Who Can Apply: WMA offers scholarships for military veterans who have been nominated by an association member. To be eligible, you must have served in the Marine Corps, have a family member who served in the Marine Corps, or have participated in a Marine Corps JROTC program.
National Guard Scholarships
Who Can Apply: These scholarships are available to U.S. citizens with a minimum high school GPA of 2.5 and an SAT score of 920 or an ACT score of 19. Applicants must also complete ROTC basic course requirements and be physically and morally qualified.
Coast Guard Scholarships
Who Can Apply: FRA offers scholarships for military dependents and personnel, including current and former members of the Coast Guard. Applicants must excel academically.
Military Families Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The American Legion offers scholarships for military dependents. To apply, you must be the child or dependent of a service member who died on active duty following September 11, 2001. You must also demonstrate financial need.
Resources for Active Military and Veterans
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs The VA administers a wide variety of benefits for current and former members of the armed forces, including financial aid programs like the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bills.
U.S. Department of Education The ED provides resources on how to access various forms of financial support, including scholarships for active-duty military personnel. The ED also administers more general student loan, fellowship, and grant programs.
American Veterans AMVETS is a Congressionally-chartered service organization for veterans. As one part of its broader mission, it assists veterans as they navigate government resources and apply for benefits.
Wounded Warrior Project In addition to offering physical and mental health programs for veterans, WWP also provides career counseling and benefits assistance to former members of the military and their dependents.
National Veterans Foundation NVF operates both a toll-free helpline and online assistance portal for current military personnel and veterans. The foundation helps former service members find food, shelter, jobs, and medical treatment, as well as education and training programs.
National Criminal Justice Association NCJA represents criminal justice professionals and advocates on issues related to crime reduction, corrections, victims services, drug treatment, and pretrial justice reform. It is an excellent resource for military students considering a career in criminal justice.