Army Emergency Relief (AER) Spouse Education Assistance Program

Name: Army Emergency Relief (AER) Spouse Education Assistance Program

Award Amount: Up to $2,500 per academic year (needs-based)

Information And Eligibility:
The Army Emergency Relief (AER) Spouse Education Assistance Program is a needs-based scholarship designed to support the educational goals of Army spouses. Administered by Army Emergency Relief, a nonprofit organization established in 1942, this program recognizes the unique challenges faced by military families and aims to promote long-term financial stability through education. By helping spouses pursue higher education, certifications, or vocational training, AER strengthens the overall readiness and resilience of the Army community.

This scholarship is available to spouses of active-duty Army soldiers, retirees, and, in some cases, surviving spouses. The program supports a wide range of educational pathways, including undergraduate and graduate degree programs, professional certifications, technical training, and vocational education. Funds may be used for tuition, required fees, and other approved education-related expenses, making the program flexible for spouses pursuing traditional college degrees or career-focused training programs.

Eligibility for the AER Spouse Education Assistance Program is based primarily on demonstrated financial need. Applicants are required to complete a detailed financial assessment as part of the application process. This ensures that assistance is directed to families who would benefit most from additional educational support. Because military spouses often face frequent relocations, employment disruptions, and limited access to consistent career advancement opportunities, the program is designed to help bridge financial gaps and improve long-term earning potential.

The program is particularly valuable for spouses seeking to re-enter the workforce, change careers, or gain credentials that are portable across states and duty stations. By supporting education and skill development, AER helps spouses build sustainable careers that can adapt to the demands of military life. This focus on long-term self-sufficiency aligns with AER’s broader mission of providing financial support that strengthens Army families beyond immediate emergency needs.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year, allowing spouses to apply when they are ready to begin or continue their education. While the maximum award is $2,500 per academic year, actual award amounts are determined based on financial need, available funding, and the applicant’s educational plan. Recipients may reapply in future years, provided they continue to meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate ongoing financial need.

The AER Spouse Education Assistance Program is well suited for Army spouses who are motivated to pursue education but face financial barriers due to the demands of military life. By investing in the education of Army spouses, the program not only supports individual career growth but also contributes to the economic strength and stability of military families as a whole.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be the spouse of an active-duty Army soldier, Army retiree, or eligible surviving spouse.
• Must be pursuing an approved educational program, including a degree, certification, or vocational training.
• Must demonstrate financial need through the AER financial assessment process.
• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited institution or approved training program.
• Must meet all additional eligibility criteria established by Army Emergency Relief.

Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round; applying before the start of the academic term is recommended.

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