Education Benefits for Veterans in California
2 Education benefits for veterans in California.
CalVet College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents
The CalVet College Fee Waiver waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at California Community Colleges, California State University, and University of California campuses for eligible dependents of service-connected disabled or deceased veterans.
Eligibility: Children, spouses, and surviving spouses/registered domestic partners of a veteran with a service-connected disability or who died of a service-connected cause, under one of four statutory plans (income limits and age limits apply to some plans). The veteran must have qualifying wartime or service dates under the applicable plan.
Estimated value: Full waiver of system-wide tuition and fees (thousands of dollars per year)
How to apply: Apply through your County Veterans Service Office, which certifies eligibility for the campus.
California Military Department GI Bill Award Program (CMD GI Bill / CNG EAAP)
This state grant, formerly the California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program, pays up to 100% of tuition and fees at UC, CSU, and California Community Colleges (and eligible private schools) for qualifying members of the California National Guard, State Guard, and Naval Militia.
Eligibility: Active members of the California Army or Air National Guard, California State Guard, or California Naval Militia who have at least a two-year service commitment and meet program requirements. Financial need is not required. Awards are limited by an annual statewide cap.
Estimated value: Up to 100% of tuition and fees at California public colleges and universities
How to apply: Apply online through calguard.ca.gov/education and the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC).