Deadlines Nearing to Save on College Costs

Author: TAPS

After the death of a loved one, the financial commitment of attending college may seem daunting. However, the financial burden can be lifted with the help of scholarships available to surviving family members from various federal, state and private organizations. TAPS is here to assist eligible survivors to gain access to these education benefit resources.

Daughter in Cap and Gown

Graduation is around the corner. It is time to start applying now for 2016-2017 academic year scholarships. If you are planning on attending college in the fall, most scholarships are due in early March. Here are some of the major scholarships for surviving family members that have upcoming deadlines:

MOAA

  • at least $2,500 per year for surviving children

  • Due by March 1, 2016

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

  • Up to $7,500 per year for surviving children

  • Due by March 1, 2016

Fisher House Foundation

  • Up to $5,000 per year for surviving children

  • Due by March 18, 2016

Folds of Honor Foundation

  • Up to $5,000 per year for surviving children and spouses

  • Due by March 31, 2016

Army Emergency Relief Fund

  • Up to $3,300 per year for surviving children and spouses

  • Due by May 1, 2016

Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation

  • Up to $3,100 per semester for surviving children

  • No application deadline

Freedom Alliance

  • Up to $4,000 per year for surviving children

  • No application deadline

Matthew Freeman Project

  • Up to $1,000 per year for surviving siblings

  • No application deadline

You can find an extensive list of scholarships on the TAPS Education Portal. You can also set up a one-on-one appointment with a TAPS education coordinator who can assist you in narrowing down which scholarships you are eligible for and most likely to receive. They can also help you with the application process for the scholarships as well as for federal benefits and state tuition waivers. You can schedule an appointment by emailing education@taps.org.