Military Family Members

VA Education Benefits for Survivors and Dependents

The Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program (Chapter 35) is an education benefit for a qualifying child and spouse of a veteran or service member who has died, is captured or missing, or has disabilities.

The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (Fry Scholarship), benefits children and spouses of certain veterans who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, while serving in one of the Armed Forces, or who died from a service-connected disability as members of the Selected Reserve.

Scholarships

My Career Advancement Account Scholarship

The My Career Advancement Account Scholarship (MyCAA) program provides up to $4,000 in scholarship moneys to qualifying military spouses pursuing a license, certifications, or associate’s degree. To qualify, military sponsor must be between the pay grades of E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-2, and applicant must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program

The Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program* offers financial assistance to Army dependent spouses pursuing an undergraduate degree or similar professional certification. The scholarship provides financial assistance for up to four academic years for full-time students or eight academic years for part-time students.

MG James Ursano Scholarship Program

The MG James Ursano Scholarship Program* provides financial assistance to the children of Army Soldiers (active duty/retired /veteran), under the age of 24 pursuing an undergraduate degree or similar professional certification. The scholarship provides financial assistance for up to four academic years for full-time students or eight academic years for part-time students.

The NYS Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship

The MERIT scholarship* is an award provided to dependents of a service member who died or became severely and permanently disabled after August 2, 1990 while performing military service as a resident of New York State. This award covers the cost of tuition at CUNY or SUNY schools. The award also has a living allowance, but these benefits are based on many factors.

*Please note that a current FAFSA is needed for this scholarship. CUNY SPS Federal code: 004765

Apply for FAFSA