05/19/2026
🎓 New York Education Benefits for Veterans & Military Families
From tuition assistance to scholarships and family support programs, New York State offers a wide range of opportunities to help you achieve your education goals—without carrying the full financial burden.
Whether you're a Veteran, currently serving, or supporting a military family, these programs are designed to meet you where you are 👇
🔗 Learn more + apply:
• Veterans Tuition Awards (VTA)
https://hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/veterans-tuition-awards.html
• NY State Recruitment Incentive & Retention Program (RIRP)
https://dmna.ny.gov/education/rirp/
• Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship
https://hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/nys-military-enhanced-recognition-incentive-and-tribute-merit-scholarship.html
• Children of Deceased & Disabled Veterans (CDDV)
https://hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/children-of-deceased-and-disabled-veterans-award.html
• Rainbow Division Veterans Foundation Scholarship (RDVF)
https://www.rdvf.org/scholarships
• Military Residency Waiver
https://hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/military-residency-waiver.html
• New York Patriot Plan
https://hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/nys-patriot-plan.html
• Operation Recognition (HS Diplomas for Veterans)
https://www.acces.nysed.gov/hse/operation-recognition
• NY Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3)
https://mic3.net/
💡 Pro tip: Many of these programs can be used alongside federal benefits, so ensure you are maximizing what you’ve earned!