National Guard Scholarships

The high price of tuition is not standing in the way of Gabriel Guevara’s education! Cadet Guevara is the recipient of the Dedicated Army National Guard (DEDNG) Scholarship, also known as the Minuteman Scholarship. She attends Samford University, is a member of the Reserve Officers Training Corp (ROTC), and trains with the Alabama Army National Guard.

“Applying for the Minuteman Scholarship was the smartest move I’ve ever made. To graduate college debt free and become an Officer in the United States Army National Guard is not something many people get the chance to do,” said Guevara.

While working on her degree in secondary education and English, she receives full tuition, plus up to $1,200 for books and a monthly allowance of $350 during sophomore year, $450 during junior year and $500 during her senior year. Additionally, she receives the drill pay of a sergeant (E5), approximately $311 per month.

Her drill schedule is one weekend a month and two weeks a year. “There are many details that determine what you qualify for, and that’s why you need to meet with a recruiter. Benefits can change, so don’t listen to others or go by what you read.”

The average undergraduate cost of attendance at Alabama universities in 2018 is estimated to be $18,932 per year. Alabama ranks number nine for the highest student debt, averaging $31,275. Wading through stipends, scholarships, and other costs can be daunting. In addition to the Minuteman Scholarship, the Alabama Army National Guard has tuition assistance, debt repayment, and technical certifications for those who qualify.

The Guard is a part-time obligation with full-time benefits. Although education may be your primary objective today, a career with the Guard includes benefits that carry far into the future. To learn more about the benefits of the Alabama Army National Guard and the 250 careers to select from visit NationalGuard.com/AL.