Educate yourselves

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Aubrey White
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  As Airmen we are taught to make the most with what we're given and remain resilient and focused on the mission throughout changes that may come our way.

Although military tuition assistance (MTA) has been reinstated, members of Team Seymour are encouraged to seek out financial assistance alternatives for continuing education.

"Continuing education is important to effectively support the U.S. Air Force mission and maintain competency within our ever-changing society," said Airman 1st Class Sheng Morris, 4th Contracting Squadron contract specialist and student. "Airmen need to grow intellectually and it's important to keep your options open because MTA is not always guaranteed."

There are several outlets, other than MTA, available to acquire student financial aid including federal student aid, College Level Examination Program and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support Subject Standardized Tests and the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bills.

The base education center staff is dedicated to helping all members of Team Seymour who are looking to begin or continue their secondary education.

"Education enhances an Airman's professional and personal development," said Margaret Slade, 4th Force Support Squadron chief of education and training. "Future academic pursuits may mean a detour along the way, but the tools mentioned (below) should help Airmen navigate the course toward reaching their academic goals."

Military Tuition Assistance

After a brief hiatus, the MTA program has resumed with the same benefits as before. Airmen are eligible for up to $4,500 per fiscal year and a maximum of $250 per semester hour or quarter hour equivalent to cover tuition and allowable fees. MTA is not available to cover courses taken and paid for using any other funding source during the suspension of the program.

"Voluntary education and MTA programs continue to be integral to the recruiting, retention and readiness of Airmen and contribute to institutional competencies," said Kim Yates, the Air Force Voluntary Education chief. "In the long term, the Air Force will still be able to leverage the learning achieved by Airmen to ensure a dynamic, flexible force able to work in uncertain environments around the world. They will have the ability to think critically."

Federal student aid

The U.S. Department of Education awards approximately $150 billion per year in federal student aid, which covers tuition and fees, living arrangements, books and supplies and transportation. Federal student aid can include grants, loans and work-study programs.

"Many people are familiar with the federal Pell Grant, which is an opportunity for education funding that doesn't have to be repaid," Slade said. "The maximum award for the upcoming school year is $5,645."

To view the eligibility requirements and more information about federal student aid, visit studentaid.gov.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support Subject Standardized Tests (DSST)

CLEP and DSST's are standardized credit-by-examination assessments which allow students to demonstrate proficiency in several college subjects. Many colleges grant credit to students who meet their minimum qualifying score.

More than 60 different CLEP and DSST exams are available to Team Seymour's active duty and reserve personnel, free of charge, through the Mount Olive College on-base National Test Center. Exam subjects range from American Literature and College Algebra to Principles of Microeconomics. The base library also has several CLEP and DSST reference materials accessible for studying prior to taking an exam.
To schedule an appointment to test, email Mari Hawley, Mount Olive College test administrator, at MHawley@moc.edu.

Montgomery (MGIB) and Post 9/11 GI Bills

The MGIB provides service members up to 36 months of education benefits for degree and certifications programs, flight training, on-the-job training and correspondence courses. Benefits are generally payable for 10 years following release from active duty.
The Post 9/11 GI Bill grants financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of amassed service after September 10, 2001. Applicants must also have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for this bill.

Much like the MGIB, the Post 9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally payable for 15 years following release from active duty. Some Service members may also transfer their GI Bill benefits to dependants.

"Caution is advised as the entitlements are not the same as they would be if a member used the bills out of service," Slade said. "Airmen should contact their school's Veteran's Assistance representative to verify how much of their entitlement would be used."
Aside from the alternatives listed above, Airmen also have the opportunity to research and apply for countless scholarships.

"There are plenty of scholarships available, but the application process can be intimidating," Morris said. "I encourage Airmen to seek guidance from the base education center, local community colleges and universities for information about financial aid and scholarships as well."

For more information about student financial aid and continuing education, contact the base education center at (919) 722-5800.