Must Know Scholarship Programs for Military Spouses
We hear it all the time—military spouses pausing their career or educational pursuits to follow their service members. Even with determination and drive, spouses can experience setbacks due to financial challenges that usually come with moving every 2-3 years. To overcome these challenges, NMFA created a scholarship program to meet the flexibility needs of all military spouses, including partnering with premier schools to do the same.
Here are the ones you need to know about:
Partner Benefits Unique to NMFA
NMFA collaborates with higher educational institutions to offer exclusive scholarships, discounts, and other educational opportunities.
UMGC-NMFA Scholarship Program
Application Deadline: December 31, 2024
The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) collaborates with NMFA to award scholarships worth up to $1,500 to spouses of active-duty, Reservist, or National Guard members.
Eligibility and Benefits:
- Open to newly enrolled or current students earning 0–30 credits towards their first undergraduate degree at UMGC.
- Funding can cover up to two courses (6 credits).
Ready to apply or learn more? Start here.
Webster University
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
Webster University offers military spouses a discounted tuition rate when verified through NMFA. Whether you prefer in-classroom or online learning, this scholarship ensures affordability while maintaining academic excellence.
Eligibility and Benefits:
- Significant savings on out-of-pocket tuition expenses by getting verified through NMFA.
- Enhanced employment prospects with a quality education.
- Personalized support from Webster’s Academic Advising team to help you achieve your goals.
Ready to apply or learn more? Start here.
Pillars of Strength Scholarship Program
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
UMGC recognizes the sacrifices of caregivers of service members and veterans through the Pillars of Strength Scholarship Program. This prestigious scholarship provides a full ride for military family caregivers of wounded, injured, or ill service members and veterans.
Eligibility and Benefits:
- Covers full tuition, fees, and course-required resources.
- Available for both undergraduate and graduate programs focused on high demand.
- Open to caregivers of service members injured on or after September 11, 2001.
Ready to apply or learn more? Start here.
NMFA’s Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarship
Application is Year Round
Offering the most flexibility with a rolling application process and funding opportunities.
- Flexible Funding: NMFA scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 and can be used for degrees, certifications, licensure, clinical supervision for mental health licensure, CEUs, start-up business expenses, fingerprint and background check costs, and more.
- Eligibility: Any spouse eligible to hold a valid military ID can apply.
- Tip: Apply as early as possible. We award scholarships four times a year.
Ready to apply or learn more? Start here.
Take the First Step Today
Pursuing education and career advancement as a military spouse can feel overwhelming, but these scholarship opportunities can help pave the way toward success. From NMFA’s diverse funding options to exclusive university partnerships, there’s a program to suit your goals. Start your journey today and unlock the potential to build a brighter future for yourself and your family.
By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager
