The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs announces major changes to its Alabama G.I. Dependents’ Scholarship program.
This program provides free tuition, textbooks and instructional fees at any state-supported institution of higher learning, college or university to qualified dependents of eligible disabled veterans.
On March 18, 2014, Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law Act No. 2014-177 that amended critical portions of the scholarship program. The amendment eliminates the requirement that a veteran must have served during a wartime period or under extra-hazardous conditions.
Beginning in the fall 2014 semester, dependents of eligible peace-time veterans may now qualify to participate in the program if all other qualifications are met.
Dependents previously denied education benefits based solely on the veterans’ peace-time service dates must reapply by Aug. 1, 2015, to receive the full benefit.
Also beginning in the fall 2014 semester, the program will cover only undergraduate level courses at the in-state tuition rate. Students presently enrolled in the program will not have any change in their benefits.
Interested veterans or their family members should visit their county veterans’ service office for more information, or call 334-242-5077.