Like other Pell Grants, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants provide funds for academic pursuits. However, the requirements to receive this money are very different from other programs. For instance, you may be able to qualify for money even if you cannot get funds from the Federal Pell Grant.
The application for Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants is still the same. You will need to complete and submit the FAFSA form each year so the government can determine if you meet the requirements. The U.S. Department of Education and your school will determine if you meet all of the following conditions:
- You cannot receive Federal Pell Grant funds because of a high Expected Family Contribution, but you still meet the remaining requirements.
- Your parent or guardian was a U.S. armed forces member who died from military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after September 11, 2001.
- You were younger than 24 years of age or enrolled in a college program at least part-time when your parent or guardian died.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants have a maximum payout amount of $6,495 for the school year of 2021-2022. However, that award cannot surpass the annual cost of attendance. Similarly, you cannot continue receiving grant money after 12 semesters, earning your baccalaureate degree or your first professional degree.
The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) also has other educational benefits for veterans, service members, and their widows and dependents. For example, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act caps student loan interest rates at six percent on both federal and private loans.
The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships are also available to reduce educational costs. The military issues these scholarships based on merit rather than financial need.
Veterans Service Organization Scholarships are available to active-duty members, veterans, and their families. The organizations that offer these funds include the following:
- The American Legion provides thousands of dollars annually for Eagle Scouts, winners of a rifle championship and speaking contest, and children of deceased or disabled veterans. They also teamed up with Samsung to issue educational funds for children of wartime veterans.
- AMVETS has multiple $4,000 scholarships for current and former service members and their spouses, children, and grandchildren. It also awards two $12,000 scholarships annually.
- Paralyzed Veterans of America has scholarships for members of PVA and their immediate families.
- Veterans of Foreign Wars have scholarships up to $5,000 for members of VFW, the National Guard or the Reserve.
Some degrees qualify for grants. You may receive free money just for pursuing your dream job. The next grant may be available if you want to become a teacher and follow through on the requirements.
By Admin –
