Top Military Scholarships to Apply for in May 2025
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Joseph A. Monachino Memorial Scholarship
Funded byMonachinoThis scholarship aims to honor the life of Joseph A. Monachino by supporting students who are committed to pursuing higher education.- Financial Status: Financial need
- Education Level: High school student
- State: Nevada
$1,600Deadline:Jul 01, 2025One Click Apply1Eddie Hankins Medical Service Scholarship
Funded byHankins FamilyThis scholarship aims to honor the legacy of Eddie Hankins by supporting students who are following in his footsteps and continuing the work he loved.- Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
- Field of Study: First response (EMT, nurse, police officer, paramedic, etc.)
$900Deadline:Jul 01, 2025One Click Apply2Patriots Path Scholarship
Funded byNavy Yacht Club Long BeachThis scholarship aims to support JROTC and ROTC participants by making college more affordable and accessible.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Involvement: ROTC or JROTC
- GPA: 3
- State: California
$5,000Deadline:Jul 01, 2025One Click Apply3Jennifer Gephart Memorial Working Mothers Scholarship
Funded byAndrew GephartThis scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Jennifer Gephart, mother of two and military spouse, whose work not only supported her children but also added meaning to her life while she made a difference in the lives of those she served and who worked alongside her.- Background: Mother
$3,000Only 4 days left!One Click Apply4T's Golf Foundation Scholarship
Funded byT's Golf FoundationThis scholarship seeks to thank veterans, active military, and their families for their sacrifices by making college more accessible to their dependents.- Sport: Golf
- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Background: a current active duty/reservist or honorably discharged Veteran or have a family member who is active duty military or an honorably discharged veteran.
$4,000Only 6 days left!One Click Apply5Bryent Smothermon PTSD Awareness Scholarship
Funded byBryent SmothermonTo honor the legacy of Bryent Smothermon, this scholarship exists to support military veterans or military family members who have suffered from PTSD.- Background: Military veteran or child of a military veteran
$1,000Only 8 days left!One Click Apply6Sgt. Albert Dono Ware Memorial Scholarship
Funded byUnited African OrganizationThis scholarship seeks to honor the life of Sgt. Albert Dono Ware by supporting students who share his commitment to helping others.- Education Level: Undergraduate student
- Race: African American
- Background: Commitment to community service
$10,000Only 10 days left!One Click Apply7Ride for Kip Scholarship AOT BMX
Funded byAOT racing incThis scholarship was created in memory of Kip: Husband, Father, AOT racing founder, and veteran. Kip's vision to support the sports he loved, the kids and people that ride, veterans and first responders remains through his family who continue to run AOT racing.- Education Level: High school senior
- Sport: BMX
- Background: Has been impacted by a member of the armed forces
$500Only 20 days left!One Click Apply8Veterans & Family Scholarship
Funded byChristopher FranksSupporting military veterans in their pursuit of higher education is essential for both the individual and the nation.- Education Level: Any
- Background: Military
$500Only 29 days left!One Click Apply9Rod Tucci Memorial Scholarship
Funded byBrett CampbellThis scholarship aims to honor the life of Rod Tucci by supporting students who share his passion for the trades.- Education Level: High school or trade school student
$500Deadline:Jun 11, 2025One Click Apply10Donald Mehall Memorial Scholarship
Funded byTheresa MehallThis scholarship aims to honor the legacy of Donald Mehall by supporting students who are connected to servicemembers.- Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
- Identity: Spouse or dependent of a veteran
$500Deadline:Jun 25, 2025One Click Apply11Mrs. Maryland Black United States JROTC Leadership Scholarship
Funded byTia DunnThis scholarship seeks to support deserving graduating seniors from Prince George's County as they prepare to attend college.- Education Level: High school senior
- School: Attending a Prince George’s County Public School
- Background: Active in the JROTC unit in Prince George County, Maryland
$1,000Deadline:Jun 30, 2025One Click Apply12John Acuña Memorial Scholarship
Funded byAcunaThis scholarship aims to honor the life of John Acuña by supporting students who have served their country and are now pursuing their academic goals.- Background: Veteran
- Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student
$4,000Deadline:Jul 07, 2025One Click Apply13Ray W Bausick Green Industry Memorial Scholarship
Funded byKevin KossThis scholarship seeks to honor the life of Ray W Bausick by supporting high-achieving students who are pursuing careers in the green industry.- Education Level: High school senior or two or four-year undergraduate student
- Majors of Interest: Landscape architecture, agronomics, turf management, etc.
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
$6,000Deadline:Jul 14, 2025One Click Apply14Eric Maurice Brandon Memorial Scholarship
Funded byThe BrandonsThis scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Eric Maurice by supporting students who are following in his footsteps and pursuing nursing careers.- Field of Study: Nursing
- Identity: Underrepresented minority
- Education Level: Undergraduate sophomore-senior or graduate student
$2,000Deadline:Jul 14, 2025One Click Apply15ADP Scholarship
Funded byPruitt FamilyThis scholarship aims to support students who have big dreams of attending college but don’t have the family resources necessary to afford tuition.- Education Level: Graduate student
- State: Maryland
- GPA: 3.0 GPA or higher
- Financial Status: Low-income
- Background: Volunteering experience
$500Deadline:Jul 20, 2025One Click Apply16Hector Javier Palacios Law Enforcement Scholarship
Funded byDoris FayThis scholarship aims to honor the memory of Hector Javier Palacios by supporting students who plan to spend their careers giving back through law enforcement.- School: Southwest High School, Pearsall High School, Somerset High School, Fox Technical High School, Tom C Clark High School, or the University of Texas at San Antonio
- Education Level: High school senior, high school graduate, or undergraduate student
- Field of Study: Law enforcement
$1,000Deadline:Aug 01, 2025One Click Apply17USMC Sgt. Owen J. Lennon Memorial Scholarship
Funded byLennon FamilyIn honor of Owen J. Lennon, this scholarship will support a student in achieving their educational goals.- Education Level: High school student
- State: New York
- Experience: Volunteering experience
- Desired Career Field: Medicine, education, public health, or another field that benefits others
$750Deadline:Sep 29, 2025One Click Apply18SFC Ronald Chatters - Triple Nickel - Second to None Scholarship
Funded byKathryn ChattersThis scholarship seeks to honor the life of Ronald Chatters by supporting minority students who are interested in pursuing a military career.- Education Level: High school student
- Identity: Underrepresented minority
- Background: Participates in JROTC
$1,500Deadline:Dec 05, 2025One Click Apply19Bill E. Wood Memorial Scholarship
Funded byThe Wood FamilyThis scholarship seeks to honor the life of Bill E. Wood and the love he spread by supporting students as they pursue their dreams.- Field of Study: Civil service or ministry
- State: Arkansas
$1,000Deadline:Dec 31, 2025One Click Apply20Learner Online Learning Innovator Scholarship for Veterans
Funded byLearnerThis scholarship seeks to reward motivated learners by supporting a community of innovative minds who rely on the digital realm to enrich their learning experiences.- Education Level: High school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student
- Citizenship Status: U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
- Background: Uses online platforms, tools, and resources to further learning and knowledge application
$1,000Deadline:Jan 02, 2026One Click Apply21Brian Chellios Memorial Scholarship
Funded byStacie StreicherThis scholarship seeks to honor the life of Brian Chellios by supporting the next generation of brave fire service workers.- Education Level: Undergraduate or trade student
- GPA: 3.0 or higher
- Field of Study: Fire science, fire service, or EMS
$1,000Deadline:Jan 02, 2026One Click Apply22A Heroes Family Scholarship
Funded byFirst Responders Family FoundationAs one small way to help the families of first responders, the A Heroes Family Scholarship exists to provide financial support for a student who has lost a parent/guardian or spouse to an on-duty tragedy of a first responder.- Education Level: High school senior or above
- Background: Lost a parent/guardian or spouse in the line of duty including those in law-enforcement, fire, or military
$1,000Deadline:Mar 30, 2026One Click Apply23Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Antonie Bernard Thomas Memorial Scholarship
Funded byChris ThomasThis scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Antonie “Tony” Bernard Thomas by supporting a student who is pursuing higher education.- Education Level: Undergraduate or graduate student
- Background: Military service member, police officer, or family of military or police
$2,000Scholarship is awarded to
3 winnersDeadline:Nov 07, 2024One Click Apply24Brandon M. Greber Memorial Scholarship
Funded byDeborah O'Connell / John ShinnThis scholarship seeks to honor the memory and legacy of Brandon M. Greber by supporting students who are interested in a career in the military, as they pursue higher education to protect our country.- Education Level: High school junior or senior or undergraduate student
- Background: Plans to enter the military
$4,500Scholarship is awarded to
1 winnerDeadline:Sep 30, 2024One Click Apply25Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship
Funded byZenobia HastieThe Emma Jane Hastie Scholarship aims to support an undergraduate junior or senior with a devotion to serving those around them.- Education level: Undergraduate juniors or seniors
- Field of study: Medicine, Counseling, Military, Hospitality, Municipal work, or related fields
- Background: Volunteer work or community service
$1,800Scholarship is awarded to
1 winnerDeadline:Jan 10, 2025One Click Apply26Robert F. Lawson Fund for Careers that Care
Funded byLance LawsonThis scholarship seeks to support high school and undergraduate students who intend to spend their careers helping other people.- Education Level: High school senior or undergraduate student
- Financial Status: Low-income
- Field of Interest: Healthcare, social work, government, education or a related field
$1,000Scholarship is in reviewDeadline:Apr 15, 2025One Click Apply27Michael J. Burns Military Children Scholarship
Funded byJason BurnsThis scholarship aims to honor Michael J. Burns’ legacy of giving by supporting students from military families who need financial assistance to pursue their educational goals.- Education Level: High school or undergraduate student
- Background: From a military family
$1,200Scholarship is awarded to
1 winnerDeadline:Sep 01, 2022One Click Apply28Larry D Parker Sr.’s Legacy Scholarship
Funded byParker FamilyThis scholarship will honor the life of Larry D Parker Sr. and help underrepresented students from low-income communities pursue their education.- Education Level: High school or undergraduate
- Career Path: Trade
- Background: Low-income and from an underrepresented community (not limited to race)
- Experience: Community Involvement
$1,700Scholarship is awarded to
2 winnersDeadline:Oct 01, 2022One Click Apply29Veterans Writing Group of San Diego Ernie Pyle Award
Funded byVeterans' Writing Group of San Diego CountyThis scholarship seeks to support military veterans who are pursuing their education and those who are active military to cover their college expenses.- Education Level: Undergraduate student
- Background: Veteran or active military
- State: CA
- GPA: 2.0 or greater
$1,540Scholarship is awarded to
2 winnersDeadline:Sep 30, 2023One Click Apply30
For those who serve, education should never be out of reach. As an active-duty service member, balancing military commitments with higher education can be challenging, but financial barriers shouldn’t stand in your way. Whether you're active duty, a veteran, or a dependent, there are plenty of military scholarships to help make college more affordable.
As a trusted resource in scholarships and financial aid, we're committed to helping military service members, veterans, and their families access the funding they deserve. For this guide, we’ve researched top military programs, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Military Officers Association of America, and the Air Force Aid Society, among others, to provide you with the information you need to find funding for college.
Keep reading to find out which scholarships can help you pay for school and discover helpful resources like the U.S. Veterans magazine and more.
If you're looking for scholarship awards for the upcoming year, sign up for free on our site and start applying today.
Best Military Scholarships for Service Members
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
Many organizations recognize the dedication and skills of active-duty military members through merit-based scholarships. These scholarships reward outstanding academic performance, leadership, and commitment to service. Our merit scholarships are funded by generous donors who recognize the hard work and dedication it takes to excel academically. They’re passionate about supporting students who strive for success. Browse through our list.
2. Undergraduate Scholarships
Active-duty service members pursuing their first degree can access specialized undergraduate scholarships to help ease tuition costs. Our undergraduate scholarships are created by many donors who wish to give back to students studying various fields. Check them out today.
3. Veteran Scholarships
Transitioning out of active duty? Our veteran scholarships provide financial support to those who have served and recognizes the sacrifices they've made. Look at our veteran scholarships funded by donors who wish to show appreciation for the sacrifices veterans have made.
4. Military Spouse Scholarships
Military spouses make significant sacrifices alongside their service members. These scholarships for military spouses provide education funding to support career growth despite frequent relocations. Check out our military spouse scholarships funded by donors who wish to honor military spouses.
5. Military Dependent Scholarships
Children and dependents of active-duty service members can receive educational support through military-dependent scholarships. Take a look at our list today and find scholarships from real donors who support military dependents.
6. Scholarships for Military Children
For the children of service members, multiple scholarship programs exist to ease the financial burden of college. Our scholarships for military children are created and funded by donors who are affiliated with the military and everyday people who wish to honor and help the families of military service members.
7. Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation offers need-based aid to the children of Marine and Navy Corpsmen, with over million awarded annually. This scholarship provides essential financial assistance to students pursuing higher education while honoring the legacy of Marine families.
8. National Military Family Association Scholarships
The National Military Family Association provides scholarships for military spouses seeking degrees, certifications, and career training. These funds help military spouses advance their education and secure meaningful employment despite the challenges of military life.
9. Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Scholarship Fund
The Military Officers Association of America supports military children through interest-free loans and grants. Eligible dependents of uniformed service members can apply for financial assistance to help cover tuition, books, and housing.
10. Allied Van Lines Military Scholarship
Allied Van Lines Military Scholarship offers active-duty military members and their dependents a scholarship to help them pursue higher education. This program is part of their commitment to supporting the military community and easing the financial challenges of college tuition.
As an active military service member, whether in the National Guard or the U.S. Navy, you will find several opportunities to help pay for college. See our full list of scholarships and start applying today.
How to Apply for Military Scholarships
Here’s a clear path to follow:
1. Research and Identify Opportunities
Start by researching military-affiliated scholarships available through branches of service, veterans’ organizations, and government programs at the state and federal levels.
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documentation, which may include:
- Proof of military service (e.g., DD-214, active-duty orders, or military ID)
- Academic records (transcripts, diplomas, or certifications)
- Letters of recommendation (e.g., from commanding officers, instructors, or community leaders)
3. Craft Compelling Essays or Personal Statements
Craft a compelling essay or personal statement that highlights your military experience, leadership skills, career goals, and how the scholarship will support your education. Align your statement with the values and mission of the scholarship provider.
4. Complete Application Forms
Carefully fill out all required forms, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Double-check that all necessary documents are attached before submission to avoid processing delays.
5. Submission Process
Submit your application and supporting documents on time. Keep copies for your records and, if possible, confirm receipt with the scholarship provider.
Tips for Winning Military Scholarships
1. Start Early
Research scholarships well in advance. Many military scholarships require service-related documentation, transcripts, and letters of recommendation, so allow yourself plenty of time to gather all required materials.
2. Align Your Application with Military Values
Tailor each application to emphasize your military service, leadership experience, and commitment to service. Highlight achievements that align with the scholarship’s mission, whether it’s academic excellence, leadership, or community impact.
3. Choose Recommenders Strategically
Seek recommendations from leaders who can speak to your character, military accomplishments, and work ethic—such as commanding officers, senior enlisted mentors, or military instructors. Provide them with scholarship details to help them tailor their letters.
4. Proofread and Perfect
Errors can undermine an otherwise strong application. Review all forms and essays carefully, and have a mentor, colleague, or academic advisor proofread for clarity and professionalism.
5. Stay Organized and Meet Deadlines
Keep track of application requirements, deadlines, and submission confirmations using a spreadsheet or planner. Missing a deadline or forgetting a required document can cost you a valuable opportunity.
Additional Resources for Military Members
1. U.S. Veterans Magazine
If you're an active-duty service member looking for scholarship opportunities, U.S. Veterans Magazine is a great resource. It regularly features education benefits, scholarship listings, and advice on funding your degree while serving. The magazine also highlights military-friendly schools and programs.
2. Air Force Aid Society
For Air Force service members, the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) offers financial assistance that can help cover school-related expenses. While many AFAS education programs focus on dependents, active-duty Airmen and Guardians can apply for grants and emergency financial support that may assist with tuition, books, or unexpected costs that impact their ability to continue their studies. It’s worth checking with AFAS to see what financial resources you might qualify for.
3. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships
While ROTC scholarships are typically for students planning to commission, some programs offer scholarships for enlisted service members who want to become officers. Programs like the Green to Gold (Army ROTC) and Seaman to Admiral (Navy ROTC) provide full tuition, stipends, and other benefits to active-duty members who transition to college full-time before commissioning as officers.
Military-connected students will find that financial aid offered to them can help in significant ways. There are tons of opportunities for military family, community, and veteran students to help alleviate the financial burden of higher education. For more resources on student finances and education, take a look at our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
The GPA requirements for military scholarships vary by program. For example, Army ROTC scholarships require a minimum 2.5 GPA if you're in high school when applying, while the Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship requires at least a 2.5 for certificate programs and a 3.0 for undergraduate or graduate applicants.
Yes, you can study abroad with a military scholarship, but it depends on the program. The Olmsted Scholar Program is one option, offering active-duty officers the chance to study overseas while immersing themselves in a foreign culture and language. For ROTC students, Project GO (Global Officer) funds study abroad programs focused on critical languages, specifically for cadets in the Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC. In some cases, ROTC scholarships may also cover study abroad if it's part of an approved academic program. Another option is the Boren Scholarship/Fellowship, which supports service members who want to study abroad in regions critical to U.S. national security.
Yes, as a military service member, you may be able to attend college for free through programs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can cover full tuition for public, in-state tuition and fees if you qualify for the maximum benefit. The Montgomery GI Bill, Military Tuition Assistance, and the Yellow Ribbon Program also help reduce or eliminate costs. Many states offer additional education benefits, and programs like ROTC scholarships or service-specific commissioning programs can also provide funding. Don't forget to inquire with the financial aid office at prospective schools. Many may have their own college scholarships or tuition programs for military personnel.