Installation education centers are a one-stop-shop of education resources. With some exceptions, such as testing costs, the services at the education centers are free for military family members too.
Many states have extended in-state tuition rates to spouses of active duty service members, but policies will vary and the state may have a waiting period to establish residency. If waiting six months to acquire residency could save thousands of dollars, you may want to check the school’s policy before enrolling.
There are also many nonprofit organizations that have established scholarship programs for spouses or children of service members. These include the National Military Family Association, Military Officers Association of America, the American Legion, Military Homefront, Thanks USA, and service affiliated relief and aid societies. Local spouse clubs are also a good place to check for scholarships.
Your family member’s school is another resource for additional grants and scholarship programs. Often times, an institution will have an alumni scholarship fund or academic awards available for its students. And if you’re still facing loans, help your family member research careers that offer loan forgiveness programs, such as teaching, nursing, or special areas of law.