For families of disabled veterans, education can feel both like a dream and a challenge. The good news is that there are numerous scholarships for veterans’ children designed to ease the financial burden of higher education. Understanding what’s available, how to apply, and where to begin can make the path clearer for families navigating these opportunities.
This article breaks down federal programs, state-level benefits, nonprofit scholarships, and tips for families seeking assistance.
Why Scholarships for Veterans’ Children Matter
Higher education costs have risen significantly over the last two decades. For military families already adjusting to life with service-connected disabilities, tuition can be an added stressor. Scholarships specifically designed for dependents of disabled veterans recognize the sacrifices these families have made and provide resources that open doors to college, trade schools, and certification programs.
By targeting aid to dependents, these programs help children of disabled veterans pursue careers in healthcare, law, technology, teaching, and countless other fields—without being weighed down by overwhelming student debt.
Federal Education Benefits
Chapter 35: Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers Chapter 35 benefits, officially known as Dependents’ Educational Assistance. This program provides financial support for dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition.
Benefits can cover tuition, housing, books, and even supplies for eligible dependents. Students may receive assistance for up to 36 months, and in some cases up to 45 months of education.
Fry Scholarship
The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship supports children of service members who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001. While not limited to disabled veterans’ families, it is worth noting for dependents of veterans who have both served and sacrificed.
State-Sponsored Scholarship Programs
Many states supplement federal programs with additional tuition waivers or scholarships for dependents of disabled veterans. The rules vary, but here are a few examples:
- Texas: The Hazlewood Act provides up to 150 credit hours of tuition exemption at public institutions for children of veterans who are 100% disabled.
- Florida: Offers free tuition for dependents of veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled.
- Virginia: Has multiple state-level grants covering tuition for children of disabled or deceased veterans.
Families should always check with their state’s Department of Veterans Affairs to confirm eligibility. Requirements may include residency, maintaining a certain GPA, or attending specific public universities.
Private and Nonprofit Scholarships
Beyond federal and state options, numerous nonprofits and veteran service organizations offer scholarships aimed at dependents of disabled veterans.
- Paralyzed Veterans of America Scholarships: Awards scholarships to spouses and children of members with spinal cord injuries or diseases.
- Military Order of the Purple Heart: Provides scholarships for children and grandchildren of Purple Heart recipients.
- AMVETS National Scholarship Program: Supports children and grandchildren of veterans with tuition assistance.
- Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation: While focused on those who lost a parent, the organization provides both financial aid and career counseling services.
Many of these programs are competitive, requiring essays, recommendation letters, or community service commitments. However, they can provide crucial funding that complements VA benefits.
Tips for Applying Successfully
Start Early
Scholarship applications often have deadlines in the early spring or fall. Families should begin researching opportunities at least one year before high school graduation.
Organize Documentation
Common requirements include a copy of the veteran parent’s VA disability rating decision, proof of dependency, and transcripts. Having these documents ready makes the process smoother.
Apply Broadly
Students should not rely on just one scholarship source. Applying to multiple programs increases the chance of receiving aid. Even smaller awards (like $500 or $1,000) add up when stacked together.
Highlight the Story
Many scholarships ask students to write essays about their family’s military background. This is a chance for dependents to share their parent’s service and the impact it has had on their own aspirations.
Common Misunderstandings
Some families assume that if they already receive Chapter 35 benefits, they cannot apply for other scholarships. In reality, many scholarships can be combined with federal or state aid, reducing out-of-pocket costs even further.
Others believe scholarships are only for children of veterans with 100% disability ratings. While some programs do have this requirement, many are available to dependents of veterans with lower ratings, as long as the disability is service-connected.
How Warrior Allegiance Helps Families
At Warrior Allegiance, we understand how overwhelming VA benefits and education funding options can be. Our veteran-led team works with families to navigate VA claims, understand their entitlements, and maximize available resources—including education assistance.
We don’t charge upfront fees. Instead, our costs are based on the results we achieve for our clients. This model allows veterans and their families to get the support they need without the stress of unexpected expenses.
If you or someone you know is looking to understand education benefits or explore scholarships for veterans’ children, start today with Warrior Allegiance. We help veterans nationwide from our offices in El Paso, San Antonio, and Puerto Rico.
📍 Location: 9400 Viscount Blvd, El Paso, TX
📞 Phone: (800) 837–1106
🕒 Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Education is one of the most powerful gifts families of veterans can pass on to the next generation. For dependents of disabled veterans, scholarships and benefits can remove financial roadblocks and provide the freedom to pursue future careers with confidence.
By taking advantage of scholarships for veterans’ children, families not only honor the service of their loved ones but also invest in a brighter future. With the right planning and resources, every child of a veteran can access the education they deserve.