Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont National Guard newsletter below includes a joint statement from MajGenCray, Ken Gragg, Deputy Adjutant General, and ColGreg Knight, Human Resources Officer, a fact sheet and a question and answer page. Thenewsletter that includes details about the new Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program.Vermont recently passed a law that provides members of the Vermont National Guard a tuition entitlement to Vermont colleges and certification programs with a service obligation.
Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program
New for 2019 the Vermont Legislature has approved a new education entitlement for Vermont National Guard members.
Listed below are a few frequently asked questions about the new program.
Why was the Benefit program created?
Vermont was the only state in the Northeast region that did not offer a 100% tuition entitlement for National Guard members.
Young men and women cite educational benefits as the number one reason for joining the National Guard. The VTNG has
been at a disadvantage in attracting new talent, our education program will assist in attracting new members who want to serve
their state and nation while achieving their educational goals.
How does this new program differ from the Vermont National Guard Education Assistance Program?
The Assistance program funded a specific amount to be used as a scholarship at a participating Vermont School, ranging from
$3000 to $5000 per year based on funding. The new program offers free tuition at a Vermont State School - inclusive of UVM -
or a scholarship up to the Northern Vermont University in-state rate to a private institution.
I’m currently enrolled in the Assistance Program how do I enroll in the benefit program?
Students currently enrolled in a bachelor degree program will automatically roll-over into the benefit program starting January
1, 2019. Any students enrolled in a master’s program will continue to be grandfathered in the assistance program until June
2020. The funding level for the assistance program is planned to remain at current levels.
Does the benefit program apply to technical training?
Yes, the benefit program can be used for technical training and certificate programs. Students can use up to the Northern
Vermont University rates for this training.
How is the program administered?
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) administers the program. Members apply through their respective
educational services office for the programs they wish to enroll.
Are there restrictions to members who want to use the program?
Members must complete basic training, be in good standing with the Vermont National Guard and not have previously
obtained a bachelor’s degree.
Do VTNG members have to be a Vermont Resident?
No, any member of the Vermont National Guard is eligible for the program regardless of residency status.
Can the benefit be revoked?
A Member that loses their good standing with the National Guard or the school they are attending will lose their benefit for the
program. Any monies dispersed will be converted into a loan and paid back by the member.
Is there a service commitment for this benefit? Yes, for every one year of college at the full time rate (12 credits or more) the
service member is obligated to two years of service. The service requirement is pro-rated below 12 credit hours. A member
can enroll for two certificate programs in a term with a 6 month service commitment per certificate. Up to 4 certificates can be
earned in a calendar year.
To see H.72, follow this link:
https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2018/H.72