Are you a veteran or an active-duty service member seeking educational opportunities for your dependents? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers numerous education programs designed to support your family's academic pursuits. These programs not only cover tuition fees but also extend benefits to your dependents, ensuring they have access to high-quality education.
The VA's education programs for dependents are an excellent way to invest in your children's future. Here, we'll explore two vital programs - the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA) and the Fry Scholarship - in-depth, discussing their benefits, eligibility requirements, and application processes.
Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
The DEA program offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who have either died or have a total and permanent service-connected disability.
Dependents may receive up to 36 months of education benefits, with an annual limit of $1,045 (as of the 2022 fiscal year). These benefits can be used for various educational pursuits, including undergraduate degrees, vocational training, and on-the-job training.
Eligibility for Dependents
To qualify, dependents must be one of the following:
- Spouse or child of a veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition
- Child of a veteran who died from any cause while in service or as a result of a service-connected disability
- Child who has a parent who is missing in action or a prisoner of war
Applying for DEA Benefits
To apply, dependents should complete and submit VA Form 22-5490, Application for Dependent's Education Assistance, to their nearest VA regional office or the Education Division at the VA's Education Service Office.
Supporting documentation, such as proof of dependent status and school attendance, must also be provided.
The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship
The Fry Scholarship is specifically designed for dependents whose surviving spouses or parents are not eligible for transferred entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It provides up to 36 months of benefits for education and training programs.
As of the 2022 fiscal year, annual benefits are capped at $27,558 for tuition and fees, plus a monthly stipend (from $134 to $1,705, based on the location of the institution and the dependent's housing status).
Eligibility for Dependents
Dependents may qualify if they fall into one of these categories:
- Spouse of a member of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001
- Child of a member of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, and was not yet 23 years old (or 26 if continuously enrolled in college or certain training programs) on the date of the member's death
Applying for Fry Scholarship Benefits
Dependents must submit VA Form 5490 (Application for VA Education Benefits) to their nearest VA regional office or the Education Division at the VA's Education Service Office. Additionally, they must provide certification of enrollment from their school.
Don't forget that dependents must verify their enrollment each term, using the VA's WAVE system or by sending a written request to their VA regional office.
Investing in education is a significant step towards securing your dependents' future. By exploring these VA education programs, you can help them unlock countless opportunities and pave the way for a successful, fulfilling life. Encourage your dependents to take advantage of these well-deserved benefits and start their educational journey today.