Looking for a way to pay for school?

The Guard is your ticket to a successful education. We offer benefits like: 100% Tuition Assistance—nearly $20,000 over four years; the Montgomery G.I. Bill; Army National Guard Kicker; National Guard Scholarships that can pay up to $10,000 a year plus a $1,200 book allowance; and student loan repayment programs. It's a great way to pay for college and put cash in your pocket. We can even help you get your GED. Check out all the details.

Money for College: 100% Tuition Assistance

The Guard can pay up to 100% of your college tuition, based on in-state public institution tuition rates—that’s nearly $20,000 over four years. In addition, you’ll receive a monthly housing allowance, and $1,000 for books and supplies, based on your commitment. Plus, many states offer additional college funding. Your recruiter has all the information.

Montgomery G.I. Bill

In addition to paying your college tuition, we’ll send you a monthly allowance of up to $333 for expenses—about $11,000 over a three-year period. Best of all, this money is sent directly to you (not to your school) to spend on books, supplies—or anything you want. Your recruiter will have all the details.

Army National Guard Kicker

The Army National Guard Kicker supplement to the Montgomery G.I. Bill pays up to $350 per month in living expenses—up to $12,600 over 36 months. You’ll need to apply and qualify for this program. In order to qualify, you must:

  • Be attending an accredited school
  • Be a traditional (part-time) Army National Guard Soldier in an active drilling status
  • Be eligible beginning the day you join the Army National Guard
  • Remain in the Guard during the complete term of your college courses

Reserve Officer's Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships

ROTC is a college elective that allows you to earn a commission straight out of college as a second lieutenant in the Army. The course consists of both academic classes and hands-on training—mental and physical challenges that will help you succeed in college and beyond. Participation takes just a few hours per week.

Scholarships include:

  • A wide range of merit-based scholarships that pay up to full college tuition
  • Additional funds to pay for books, supplies and other school fees
  • Tax-free stipends up to $500 per month if you qualify

All ROTC scholarships require a service commitment. Check with your recruiter for details.

Student Loan Repayment Program

For Soldiers and officers who have an existing student loan obligation at the time of enlistment in the Guard, there is a program that may pay up to $65,000 for certain jobs, with a six- or eight-year enlistment as a member of a unit.

In addition, current Guard members who extend their enlistment contract for a minimum period of six years are also eligible for this program, provided they meet certain requirements, including a qualifying score on the Armed Forces Qualifying Test  and being in a valid Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Military Occupational Specialty (MOS):
Guard speak for “your job.” Every job title in the Guard has a code, using a number and letter. For example, a Cavalry Scout is MOS 19D (19 Delta).
 in a National Guard unit.

Your state may have its own funding packages in addition to these federal programs. Ask your local recruiter.

The Guard has other programs and services to help you earn additional college credits, prepare for your graduate school exam, or even get your GED—all while earning your Guard pay. Find out more.

*Up to $4,500 per year, plus a monthly housing allowance, and $1,000 for books and supplies, based on your commitment.

Note: Army National Guard programs and benefits are subject to change. For the latest information, please contact your local recruiter.


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