With the start of a new school semester around the corner, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is offering financial assistance to eligible veterans to allow their children to receive higher education.
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ (DMVA) Educational Gratuity Program will be giving up to $4,000 per child of honorably discharged wartime veterans who have service-connected total and permanent disability or children of veterans who died in service during a period of war or armed conflict.
“These grants can help to alleviate the financial burden families face when their children graduate from high school and go on to higher education,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA. “We encourage eligible families to apply now for the upcoming semester. Your sacrifice has been immense and this is one way for Pennsylvania to show its continued support of your family.”
Children of eligible veterans must be between the ages of 16 and 23, living within the state five years prior to application and must attend an approved school within Pennsylvania.
“A special feature about this grant program is that it can be applied to colleges, trade schools and apprenticeships across the commonwealth,” said Brig. Gen. Maureen Weigl, deputy adjutant general of Veterans Affairs. “The DMVA wants to see that finances are not a deciding factor on whether to advance your education. It is important to see every military child succeed in life, especially those whose family has sacrificed while in uniform.”
Up to $4,000 or $500 across eight terms can be awarded to each child of an eligible veteran. To apply, you must contact the County Director of Veterans Affairs for the county in which you reside.
The following documents may be needed when applying:
•A copy of last military service DD214 or Military Death Certificate of the sponsoring veteran
•A copy of birth certificate of applicant
•Proof of identification (driver’s license, voter registration, etc.)
•Proof of Pennsylvania residency for the last five years
For more information about the Educational Gratuity Program, contact the DMVA at: Ra-eg@pa.gov.