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MSG Corner: Education office provides additional funding information for education

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Benjamin Wiseman
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
In the light of sequestration and suspension of tuition assistance, the 36th Force Support Squadron Education Office is working hard to inform Airmen about alternate means of funding for education.

Due to the Air Force-wide TA suspension March 11, base education officials are currently distributing information to Airmen letting them know their educational goals can be funded with means other than out-of-pocket expenses.

"Members may believe that paying out of pocket is their only option for funding their education," said Natasha Jamerson, 36th FSS education technician. "However, there are grants, scholarships and other means for paying for education that Airmen may be qualified to receive."

The base education office created several financial aid resource handouts to give to military members. They also are advising members who have questions to come to the education office for advice.

"Although TA has been suspended, the education office will continue to provide education advice and support," said Jamerson. "We will do everything we can to ensure Airmen can still reach their educational goals."

The following list provides several ways Airmen can finance their educational endeavors in the absence of TA:

- Members are encouraged to apply for the Pell Grant by going to www.FAFSA.edu.gov. This grant can provide up to $5,500 per year which can finance four to seven classes.

- CLEP/DANTES exams are available to assist members who need to complete general education requirements. CLEP/DANTES exams are free to service members the first time they take each test. Members must fund retakes of the same exam. Up to 30 semester hours of CLEP/DANTES will transfer to a student's Community College of the Air Force degree. Members can get study materials from the base library, the Peterson's Air Force Education Resource Center, and Free CLEP Prep.

- Members can use their Montgomery GI Bill benefits. Members may contact Veterans Affairs directly at 1-888-442-2551 for specific information concerning their Montgomery GI Bill benefits.

- Members are also encouraged to go to the base education office for scholarship application handouts with information about where to find scholarships and how to apply.

The education office continues to offer academic advisement, education level updates, CCAF counseling, commissioning programs, military testing and support on additional education-related matters.

For additional information, visit the education office during business hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., call 366-3170 or email 36.fss.fsde@us.af.mil.