Scholarships for Children of Veterans

Scholarships for Children of Veterans: Opportunities and Support

Scholarships for children of veterans are financial awards designed to support dependent students whose parents served in the U.S. military. These awards help cover tuition, fees, books, housing, and other education expenses. Many programs are offered by military foundations, nonprofit groups, state veterans’ services, and post-secondary institutions specifically to honor military family sacrifice and promote educational access.

Who Qualifies as a Child of a Veteran?

Eligibility for scholarships for children of veterans varies by award. Generally, students may qualify if they are:

1. Biological or adopted children of a U.S. military veteran
2. Stepchildren in veteran families (depending on sponsor’s status)
3. Children of active duty, National Guard, or Reserve members
4. Orphaned dependents when the veteran parent is deceased or disabled
5. Children of retirees with honorable discharge status

Some awards specify service branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard) or service era (e.g., Gulf War, Vietnam), while others are open to all veteran families.

How to Find and Apply for Scholarships for Children of Veterans

To apply successfully:

1. Complete the FAFSA and any military dependent aid forms (e.g., VA forms)
2. Obtain documentation of veteran status (DD214, service record)
3. Gather your transcripts and resume
4. Write a compelling personal statement highlighting your goals and military family commitment
5. Submit all required materials before published deadlines

Pro tip: Always check with your school’s financial aid office to confirm how external awards interact with institutional aid.

Common Misconceptions About Veteran Dependent Scholarships

Scholarship myths vs reality:

Myth: You must use all scholarships only for tuition

Fact: Many allow textbooks, supplies, and fees.

Myth: Only honorably discharged veterans count

Fact: Some awards accept different military statuses — check eligibility.

Myth: Only children of combat veterans qualify

Fact: Many programs are open to all honorable service families.