Alabama G.I. Dependent Scholarship Program

For a veteran’s family, college planning means checking both cost and student eligibility. Alabama administers the G.I. Dependent Scholarship for children, stepchildren, spouses, and unmarried surviving spouses of certain veterans who meet state service, disability, and residency rules. The standard service requirement is at least 90 consecutive days of active duty, with an exception when discharge resulted from a service-connected disability. A disability rating of at least 40% is generally required, although special categories include former prisoners of war, people missing in action, and qualifying service-related deaths.

ADVA describes two veteran-residency paths: permanent civilian Alabama residence for one year before entering service plus one of the current residence conditions, or, for a 100% permanent-and-total disability rating, five years of bona fide Alabama residency before applying. Benefits depend on the family relationship and disability rating: children and stepchildren may receive up to ten semesters within eight years; spouses or surviving spouses of veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled may also receive ten, while the 40%–90% category provides six semesters within six years. A child or stepchild generally must begin training before age 26, subject to limited exceptions.

The state’s 2026 directory includes public universities, community and technical colleges, plus specifically named private institutions. A school having an Alabama campus is not enough: it must appear on the current list and meet program conditions. The list also clarifies which online courses may qualify based on the school offering them. Before enrolling, confirm that both the campus and course of study are covered and ask which charges the institution bills directly to the benefit.

Applications run through the Department of Veterans Affairs’ dependent portal, where students can track a file and institution changes. The veteran’s records—including an official disability decision or rating where required—and proof of the family relationship can be decisive. Students must also meet annual FAFSA, academic-progress, and residency requirements specified by the program. Gather those records early and ask the school’s financial-aid office how the benefit coordinates with other aid.

Ask financial aid for a term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Keep the award decision, any service or loan agreement, and renewal records. If your studies, residence, or employment change, contact the administrator before making a decision that could affect the aid.

Official program information and application