National Guard Scholarships with 2025 Deadlines

Paying for college can be daunting, but if you're in the National Guard—or thinking about joining—you have access to some incredible education benefits. From state tuition assistance to GI Bill programs, the Guard offers multiple ways to help you earn your degree without drowning in debt.

But how much can you really get? Which states cover 100% of tuition? And how long do you need to serve before qualifying? With Bold.org's experience and expertise in the scholarship field, this guide cuts through the confusion, giving you clear, expert-backed answers. We would hate to let your National Guard benefits go to waste, especially when it comes to expensive education costs.

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Best National Guard Scholarships

1. Military Scholarships

As an essential part of the U.S. Military, the National Guard receives all of the same benefits and qualifications that military members receive. Whether you're on active duty or in army reserve, these military scholarships are great for those attending college!

2. Veteran Scholarships

Many people choose to continue their education after serving in the National Guard. It's never too late to earn a college degree, and these veteran scholarships ensure you have all the financial support you need to pursue your academic dreams post-service!

3. Athletic Scholarships

It's no surprise that National Guard members are among the most fit people in the United States, even while forming the reserve component of the U.S. military. With strict physical requirements and intense training, those of the National Guard have the discipline and skill set of professional athletes, making these athletic scholarships a great resource!

Scholarships for Military-Affiliated Students

1. Military Dependent Scholarships

If you're a National Guard member dependent, you qualify for these military-dependent scholarships even if you're part of the civilian world! The people who support military members are just as important as serving the country on the front lines, and these scholarships seek to honor the under-appreciated labor of that commitment.

2. Military Spouse Scholarships

Whether your spouse was already part of the National Guard when you got married, or it was a decision that came later on, your relationship with your spouse is invaluable. These military spouse scholarships provide financial aid for those who committed to sacrificing parts of that relationship so their National Guard spouses could fulfill a national duty.

3. Military Children Scholarships

Many military children's lives are categorized by constant uprooting. To give back to these little fighters of the country, these military children scholarships chip away at your college tuition so you can make a difference in the world.

Scholarships by Major

1. Computer Science Scholarships

With the rise of AI technologies and an increasingly digitized world, computer science is quickly becoming one of the most essential modern-day degrees. In the National Guard, a computer science degree can land you in valuable positions managing sensitive information systems and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of National Guard processes through technology.

2. Political Science Scholarships

As part of the U.S. military, National Guard members stay on top of international politics, which often affects where and when they're deployed. A political science degree is, therefore, a popular major among the National Guard, giving you valuable insight into the powers at work.

3. Criminal Justice Scholarships

As the National Guard defends the U.S. from enemies abroad, those in the criminal justice field ensure the homeland is safe from internal threats. That's why many National Guard members are inclined towards picking up a Criminal Justice degree to defend their home on all fronts.

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How to Apply for National Guard Scholarships

Step 1: Research Available National Guard Scholarships

Before applying, research the different scholarship programs offered by the National Guard and external scholarship organizations. Our exclusive Bold.org scholarships are a great place to start, but it's always encouraged to apply broadly. Some other options include:

1. Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): Provides financial support for education and training.
2. Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA): Covers tuition costs for eligible Guard members.
3. State Tuition Assistance Programs: Many states offer tuition assistance for National Guard members.
4. Minuteman Scholarship: A full-ride ROTC scholarship covering tuition, fees, and a stipend.
5. Army National Guard Kicker: A supplemental financial incentive for those who qualify.
6. Scholarships through Partner Institutions: Some colleges and universities offer additional scholarships for Guard members.

Check out the additional resources section below for more details and opportunities available for those affiliated with the National Guard.

Step 2: Speak with a National Guard Recruiter

A recruiter can provide guidance on scholarship options and eligibility. They will explain the commitment required for each scholarship and help determine which best suits your educational and career goals. A National Guard recruiter can also help you decide if this is the right career path for you by connecting you with mentors and enlistment resources.

Step 3: Enlist in the National Guard (If Not Already a Member)

Many National Guard scholarships require applicants to be enlisted or in the process of enlisting. If you are not yet a member, you will need to:

1. Meet age, citizenship, and fitness requirements.
2. Complete the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
3. Undergo medical evaluations and background checks.
4. Attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as required.

Check out the National Guard homepage for the full details and requirements.

Step 4: Enroll in an Eligible Educational Institution

Most National Guard scholarships require you to be enrolled in an accredited college, university, or technical school. Ensure your chosen institution accepts National Guard funding and meets the eligibility criteria. The best universities are those with army ROTC programs!

Step 5: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Some scholarships require or recommend completing the FAFSA to determine financial need. Submitting the FAFSA can also make you eligible for additional federal grants and loans.

Step 6: Apply for Specific National Guard Scholarships

Once you have determined which scholarships you qualify for, gather the necessary documents and submit applications accordingly. Commonly required documents include:

1. Proof of enlistment or service.
2. Academic transcripts.
3. Letters of recommendation.
4. Personal statement or essay (if required).
5. FAFSA submission confirmation (if applicable).

Step 7: Work with Your Unit’s Education Office

Each National Guard unit has an education office that assists members with applying for scholarships and tuition assistance. Though you may not need help with every application, this is a free resource you can and should use. Contact them to:

1. Verify eligibility.
2. Get assistance with application paperwork.
3. Ensure timely submission of required documents.

Step 8: Meet Academic and Service Requirements

To maintain eligibility, you must:

1. Maintain the required GPA set by the scholarship program.
2. Fulfill service obligations, such as drill weekends and annual training.
3. Stay enrolled in an approved academic program.

Step 9: Monitor Your Application Status

Check the status of your scholarship application regularly. If additional information is required, submit it promptly to avoid delays. Becoming a part of the Army National Guard is an achievement but also not a commitment that should be taken lightly—if officers or administrators contact you about National Guard financial aid, don't keep them waiting.

Learn how to craft a compelling scholarship essay and increase your chances!

Tips for Applying to National Guard Scholarships

1. Apply Early and Stay Organized

National Guard scholarships often have strict deadlines and limited funding. Start your application process early, gather required documents in advance, and track deadlines using a calendar or spreadsheet to ensure you don’t miss any crucial dates.

2. Maximize Your Benefits by Combining Programs

Many National Guard members qualify for multiple financial aid programs. Research how different scholarships and tuition assistance programs can be combined to maximize your education funding. For instance, you may be able to use state tuition assistance alongside the GI Bill.

3. Build Strong Relationships with Your Education Office and Chain of Command

Your unit’s education office and leadership can provide invaluable guidance throughout the application process. Regularly check in with them for updates, recommendations, and assistance to ensure you are fully utilizing all available scholarship opportunities.

Additional Resources for Army National Guard Students

1. Army National Guard

The National Guard's official website has a host of resources for college scholarships, separated by .org and .com programs. Among them are Fischer House, Army Educational Outreach Program, and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard. Scholarship recipients can win anything from a few hundred to a fully-paid college degree such as with GRFD scholarships as part of the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP).

2. Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA)

The U.S. government will pay $250 per semester hour provided your university is part of the ArmyIgnitED program. This amounts to roughly $18,000 over the course of four years. FTA also only covers tuition and bachelor's and master's degrees. To qualify, you must be an enlisted soldier in the National Guard.

3. Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program

Similar to the FTA, the CA program provides financial assistance per credential. It differs from the FTA because the credential must be taken via the Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program. Due to the specificity of the credential, qualifying candidates will receive $2,000 per year for one credential.

Supplement your financial aid resources with these quick and easy no-essay scholarships!

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