By Angela Caban

If you are a military spouse that wishes to continue their education the “I can’t afford it” excuse is no longer valid. The Department of Defense has many ways for a military spouse to also enjoy the benefits of going to college for free or close to nothing. As spouses and dependents of our military it is important that you understand the benefits that we are entitled to and how to use them. Many times your loved one will not be around to guide you through the steps and you may not know who to turn to. This guide will simply put all those doubts and worries to rest. Make sure that you first read the article entitled Motivation for Education first.

Once you have made the commitment to return to school and made yourself a list of goals, it is time to search for the right school for you. There will be so many options of military friendly schools, that it will seem overwhelming. There is a tool that I love to recommend you use, to find the best school to match your needs and budget. Using the Military school finder can be a lifesaver. Once you have figured out what you want to study, this tool will match you up with the perfect school for your needs.

So you have the school, now what? Did you know that average military friendly school will offer up to a 50% off tuition? In some cases that could mean a savings of up to $30,000 on your entire education expenses. Be sure to ask about the military discount upon enrollment.

But that’s not it; the programs that we can take advantage of, as a dependent of the military can help us to pay that leftover balance.

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA)

The MyCAA program helps eligible military spouses pay for their tuition. Starting on October 25^th the MyCAA program will be re-instated to those spouses who qualify:

• Available to spouses of active duty service member in pay grades E1-E5, W1-W2, and O1-O2.
• Guard and Reserve spouses are eligible only if their spouse is on Active duty.
• The maximum financial benefit has been changed to $4,000 with a fiscal year amount of $2,000.
• Military spouses must finish their program of study within three years from the start date of the first course.
• The funds must be used in support of an associate degrees, certification and licensures.

Check the MYCAA site frequently, as there are always updates on enrollment.

GI Bill Transferability for spouses

Service members that are enrolled in the Post-9/11 GI Bill program are now able to transfer any unused benefits to their spouses or children. Keep in mind that any benefits used will not be available for the service member, so make sure you speak with your spouse about this option. Please visit the Veteran Affairs website for eligibility guidelines for the transfer.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

For spouses or a dependent of a veteran, the Dependents’ Educational Assistance provides education and training opportunities. This program may offer up to 45 months of education benefits, for eligible dependents of a veteran.

Visit the Veteran Affairs website for more eligibility details and how to enroll.

Also be sure to speak to your educational institution about many other options such as states grants and financial aid. If you have any additional questions, comments or concerns please contact me at angela@angelacaban.com.