5 Guard College Benefits

Introduction to Guard College Benefits

Joining the National Guard can be a life-changing decision, offering a wide range of benefits that can significantly impact one’s personal and professional life. One of the most significant advantages of being a Guard member is the access to various education benefits. These benefits are designed to help Guardsmen achieve their academic goals, whether it’s completing a degree, pursuing a certification, or gaining new skills. In this article, we will delve into the details of the top 5 Guard college benefits that can help you make the most of your military service.

1. Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) is a popular education benefit that provides up to 36 months of education assistance to eligible Guardsmen. This benefit can be used to pursue a degree, certification, or vocational training, and can be applied to a wide range of educational programs. To be eligible for MGIB-SR, you must: * Have a six-year service commitment in the Selected Reserve * Be actively drilling with a Selected Reserve unit * Have completed Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) * Be in good standing with your unit

The MGIB-SR benefit can be used to cover a significant portion of your educational expenses, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.

2. Army National Guard Kicker

The Army National Guard Kicker is an additional education benefit that can be used in conjunction with the MGIB-SR. This benefit provides up to $350 per month for 36 months, and can be used to pursue a degree or certification. To be eligible for the Army National Guard Kicker, you must: * Be a new recruit in the Army National Guard * Have a high school diploma or equivalent * Score 50 or higher on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test * Enlist in a critical skill specialty

The Army National Guard Kicker can be a valuable addition to your education benefits, providing extra funding to help you achieve your academic goals.

3. Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA)

Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) is a benefit that provides up to 100% of tuition costs for eligible Guardsmen. This benefit can be used to pursue a degree or certification, and can be applied to a wide range of educational programs. To be eligible for FTA, you must: * Be actively drilling with a Selected Reserve unit * Have completed BCT and AIT * Be in good standing with your unit

FTA can be a significant benefit, covering up to $4,500 per year in tuition costs.

4. State Tuition Reimbursement (STR)

State Tuition Reimbursement (STR) is a benefit that provides reimbursement for tuition costs incurred while pursuing a degree or certification. This benefit varies by state, but can provide significant funding to help offset educational expenses. To be eligible for STR, you must: * Be a resident of the state in which you are drilling * Be actively drilling with a Selected Reserve unit * Have completed BCT and AIT * Be in good standing with your unit

STR can be a valuable benefit, providing reimbursement for tuition costs and helping to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

5. Scholarship Opportunities

The National Guard offers a range of scholarship opportunities to help Guardsmen achieve their academic goals. These scholarships can be used to pursue a degree or certification, and can provide significant funding to help offset educational expenses. Some popular scholarship opportunities include: * The Minuteman Scholarship: provides up to 10,000 per year for up to four years * The Dedicated Scholar Scholarship: provides up to 5,000 per year for up to four years * The Guardsman Scholarship: provides up to $2,500 per year for up to four years

These scholarships can be a valuable resource, providing funding to help you achieve your academic goals and pursue your desired career path.

📚 Note: It's essential to review the eligibility requirements and application process for each benefit to ensure you receive the funding you need to achieve your academic goals.

In summary, the National Guard offers a range of education benefits that can help you achieve your academic goals and pursue your desired career path. From the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve to scholarship opportunities, these benefits can provide significant funding to help offset educational expenses and reduce your out-of-pocket costs. By taking advantage of these benefits, you can make the most of your military service and set yourself up for success in your future career.