Military life is full of unique challenges, and one of those is the frequent relocations and disruptions that come with being part of a military family. For military spouses, these challenges can make it difficult to pursue higher education or complete a degree. However, there are many resources and support systems available to help military spouses achieve their educational goals. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the help available for military spouses going back to school, including scholarships, grants, financial aid, online programs, and other resources.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Challenges Military Spouses Face
Before diving into the resources available, it’s important to understand the specific challenges that military spouses face when it comes to pursuing education. These challenges can include:
Frequent Relocations
Military families move an average of every two to three years, which can make it difficult for spouses to complete a degree program in a traditional setting. Frequent moves can disrupt education, make it challenging to transfer credits and create gaps in attendance that can affect financial aid eligibility.
Financial Constraints
Military families often live on a tight budget, and the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses can be a significant barrier. Additionally, military spouses may have to weigh the cost of education against other financial priorities, such as childcare or home expenses.
Balancing Family Responsibilities
Many military spouses are also primary caregivers, responsible for managing the household and taking care of children while their spouse is deployed or on duty. This can make it difficult to find the time and energy to pursue education, particularly in a traditional on-campus setting.
Employment Challenges
Frequent relocations can make it difficult for military spouses to build a stable career, which in turn can limit their access to employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs. Additionally, gaps in employment history can make it challenging to qualify for certain financial aid programs that require a steady income.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Military Spouses
One of the most significant barriers to going back to school is the cost of tuition. Fortunately, there are numerous financial aid programs, scholarships, and grants specifically designed to help military spouses fund their education.
MyCAA (Military Spouse Career Advancement Account)
The MyCAA program is one of the most well-known sources of financial aid for military spouses. It provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance to eligible military spouses pursuing a license, certification, or associate degree in a portable career field. MyCAA is available to spouses of active-duty service members in pay grades E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-2.
Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship
The Pat Tillman Foundation offers scholarships to military spouses who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to service. The scholarship can be used to pursue a variety of degree programs, and recipients become part of the Tillman Scholar community, which provides additional support and networking opportunities.
ThanksUSA Scholarship
ThanksUSA provides scholarships to military spouses and children for higher education. The scholarship is open to spouses of active-duty, retired, or discharged military personnel, and can be used for undergraduate or graduate studies at accredited colleges and universities.
Military Spouse Fellowship Program for Financial Counseling
This program, offered by the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE), provides military spouses with the opportunity to earn a financial counseling certification at no cost. The fellowship covers the cost of study materials, exam fees, and ongoing professional development.
National Military Family Association (NMFA) Scholarships
The NMFA offers a variety of scholarships for military spouses pursuing higher education. These scholarships are open to spouses of active-duty, retired, and reserve service members and can be used for undergraduate or graduate studies, as well as vocational training.
Government Financial Aid
In addition to military-specific scholarships, military spouses can also apply for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This can include Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities. Many military spouses are eligible for need-based aid, which can significantly reduce the cost of education.
3. Online Education: Flexibility for Military Spouses
For military spouses, online education can provide the flexibility needed to balance school with family responsibilities and frequent relocations. Many colleges and universities offer fully online degree programs, which allow military spouses to complete coursework from anywhere in the world.
Benefits of Online Education
- Flexibility: Online programs allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule, making it easier to balance school with other responsibilities.
- Accessibility: Military spouses can continue their education even if they move to a new location, as long as they have access to the internet.
- Diverse Programs: There are online programs available in almost every field, from healthcare and education to business and technology.
Choosing an Online Program
When selecting an online program, military spouses should consider factors such as accreditation, transfer credit policies, and support services for online students. It’s important to choose a program that is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, as this ensures the quality of the education and allows students to transfer credits to other institutions if needed.
Top Online Programs for Military Spouses
- University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC): UMGC offers a wide range of online programs and is known for its support of military-affiliated students. The university has a dedicated Military Advising team and offers resources such as career services and tutoring.
- Arizona State University (ASU) Online: ASU Online offers more than 200 online degree programs and has been recognized for its support of military students. The university offers resources such as academic advising, career counseling, and military-specific financial aid.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): SNHU offers a variety of online programs and has a dedicated Military and Veteran Services team to support military spouses and their families. The university also offers a discount on tuition for military-affiliated students.
Support Services for Military Spouses
In addition to financial aid and online education options, there are many support services available to help military spouses succeed in their educational pursuits. These services can provide guidance, resources, and a sense of community for military spouses going back to school.
Military OneSource Education Consultants
Military OneSource offers free education consultations to military spouses. Education consultants can help spouses explore their educational options, understand financial aid opportunities, and navigate the application process. These consultations are available by phone or online, making them accessible no matter where you are stationed.
Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program
The SECO program, offered by the Department of Defense, provides military spouses with resources and support for education and career development. SECO offers career coaching, resume reviews, and assistance with job searches, as well as information on scholarships and financial aid.
Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP)
MSEP is a program that connects military spouses with employers who are committed to hiring and retaining military spouses. While the program is primarily focused on employment, it also offers resources and support for military spouses pursuing education as a pathway to a career.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Educational Benefits for Spouses
While VA educational benefits are typically associated with veterans themselves, some programs extend benefits to military spouses. For example, the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently disabled due to a service-related condition. The VA also offers counseling services to help military spouses understand their education benefits and plan their educational journey.
Local Military Family Support Centers
Many military installations have family support centers that offer resources and support for military spouses. These centers may provide workshops, counseling, and information on local educational opportunities. They can also connect military spouses with other resources, such as childcare and transportation, that can make it easier to pursue education.
Transitioning from Military Life to School Life
Going back to school after spending time as a military spouse can be a significant transition. Military spouses need to prepare for the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition, including adjusting to the academic environment, managing time effectively, and balancing school with family responsibilities.
Adjusting to Academic Life
Returning to school after a long absence can be daunting, especially if you’ve been out of the academic environment for several years. It’s important to take the time to adjust to the pace and demands of academic life. This might involve brushing up on study skills, learning how to navigate online learning platforms, and getting comfortable with the academic expectations of your program.
Time Management and Organization
Effective time management is key to balancing school with other responsibilities. Military spouses can benefit from creating a structured schedule that includes dedicated time for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. It’s also important to set realistic goals and prioritize tasks to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Finding Balance Between School and Family
Balancing school with family responsibilities can be challenging, especially if you have young children or a spouse who is frequently deployed. It’s important to communicate with your family about your educational goals and involve them in your planning. This might involve coordinating childcare, setting boundaries around study time, and seeking support from family members or friends.
Building a Support Network
Having a strong support network can make a significant difference in your success as a student. This might include connecting with other military spouses who are also pursuing education, joining study groups, and taking advantage of campus resources such as academic advising and tutoring. It’s also important to reach out for help if you’re struggling—whether it’s from a professor, a counselor, or a fellow student.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Education is an investment in your future, and for military spouses, going back to school can open up a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, advance in your current field, or pursue a passion, there are many resources available to help you achieve your career goals.
Using Your Education to Build a Career
The skills and knowledge you gain through your education can be applied to a variety of careers. Military spouses can explore opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, business, technology, and more. It’s important to research the job market and identify industries that align with your interests and goals.
Career Counseling and Job Placement Services
Many colleges and universities offer career counseling and job placement services to help students transition from school to the workforce. These services can include resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking opportunities. Military spouses should take advantage of these resources to maximize their chances of finding a fulfilling career after graduation.
Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP)
As mentioned earlier, the MSEP program connects military spouses with employers who are committed to hiring military-affiliated individuals. This program can be a valuable resource for military spouses who are looking to enter the workforce after completing their education. MSEP partners with a wide range of employers across various industries, making it easier for military spouses to find job opportunities that match their skills and qualifications.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Opportunities
For military spouses with an entrepreneurial spirit, going back to school can provide the skills and knowledge needed to start and run a successful business. There are many resources available to help military spouses launch and grow their own businesses, including small business development centers, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers specific programs for military spouses and veterans, including business counseling, training, and access to capital.
Success Stories: Military Spouses Who Went Back to School
There are countless inspiring stories of military spouses who have successfully gone back to school and achieved their educational and career goals. These success stories demonstrate the resilience, determination, and resourcefulness of military spouses, and they serve as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.
Sarah’s Story: From Military Spouse to Registered Nurse
Sarah was a military spouse who spent years raising her children while her husband served in the Army. When her youngest child started school, Sarah decided it was time to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse. She enrolled in an online nursing program and took advantage of the MyCAA program to help cover tuition costs. With the support of her family and her determination to succeed, Sarah graduated with her nursing degree and is now working as a registered nurse in a local hospital.
John’s Story: A New Career in Cybersecurity
John was a Marine Corps spouse who had always been interested in technology but had never had the opportunity to pursue formal education in the field. After his wife retired from the military, John decided to go back to school to earn a degree in cybersecurity. He enrolled in an online program at a military-friendly university and received a scholarship from the Pat Tillman Foundation. Today, John is working as a cybersecurity analyst for a major defense contractor, and he credits his education for opening up new career opportunities.
Maria’s Story: Balancing School, Family, and Career
Maria was an Air Force spouse who had always dreamed of becoming a teacher. However, frequent moves and family responsibilities had made it difficult for her to pursue her education. When her husband was stationed at a base with a local university that offered a flexible teacher education program, Maria decided to go back to school. She juggled her studies with raising her children and managing the household, and she received support from the NMFA scholarship program. After graduating with her teaching degree, Maria is now a certified elementary school teacher and is passionate about making a difference in the lives of her students.
Conclusion
Going back to school as a military spouse can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. With the right resources, support, and determination, military spouses can overcome the obstacles they face and achieve their educational and career goals. Whether through financial aid, online programs, support services, or career counseling, there are many ways to help military spouses succeed in their educational journey.
By taking advantage of the resources available and building a strong support network, military spouses can gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to build a brighter future for themselves and their families. The stories of military spouses who have successfully gone back to school serve as an inspiration and a reminder that with perseverance and support, anything is possible.