State Tuition Waivers / Free College (Guard)
Many states offer free or heavily discounted in-state college tuition for National Guard members.
Who qualifies: National Guard.
State-funded tuition assistance for National Guard members:
**States with tuition waivers:**
• Maryland – 50% tuition waiver at state schools
• Virginia – tuition waiver at state schools for eligible Guard members
• Georgia – tuition waiver at state colleges and universities
• New York – Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) program
• Tennessee, North Carolina, Illinois, and many more
Most state waivers cover:
• In-state tuition at public colleges and universities
• Some cover community colleges and technical schools
• Often stackable with federal Tuition Assistance (TA)
Check your state's Adjutant General's office for your state's specific program.