Tuition Assistance restored

Photo By Cpl. Timothy Norris | Amanda Hayman, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University adjunct instructor, reviews the course syllabus with students on the second floor of the training building, Oct. 21.  

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, SC, UNITED STATES

10.28.2011

Story by Lance Cpl. Timothy Norris 

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. - The Marine Corps announced Wednesday that tuition assistance has been restored to Fiscal Year 2011 levels, after announcing a nearly 80 percent cut a week prior.

According to a message from Lt. Gen. Robert Milstead Jr., deputy commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, MARADMIN 616-11 which originally announced a reduction in Tuition Assistance has been rescinded and Tuition Assistance again authorizes ‘up to 100 percent of tuition and fees including lab, technology and distance learning fees, not to exceed $250 per semester hour for undergraduate and graduate courses, and $4,500 per individual per fiscal year.’

The message also states that service members ‘currently enrolled in classes who were affected by the changes [to Tuition Assistance] will be eligible for TA authorizations for any cost that would have been paid by TA prior to the change.’ Additionally, ‘late enrollments may be approved if accepted by the academic institution.’

Despite the restoration of tuition assistance levels, Marines are advised to use these resources in the most efficient manner since no increase in tuition assistance funding has occurred.

“Even with prudent utilization measures in place it is likely that [Fiscal Year] 12 Tuition Assistance Funds will be exhausted well before the end of the [fiscal year],’ stated Milstead.

Financial alternatives such as scholarships, grants and the G.I. Bill, are always available to supplement a service member’s educational opportunities and Fightertown Marines and sailors are encouraged to use such resources as www.mcsfex.net to find financial aid from collegiate institutions, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and the Montgomery G.I. bill.

David Ellard, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort and Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island education services officer, advises active duty service members to seek out scholarships and grants and avoid using the Post 9/11 G.I. bill because the benefits are more effectively used in a full time student environment.

For more information on how to pursue educational opportunities while still serving, please contact the Education Office at the Air Station at 228-7474 or Parris Island at 228-2152.

• Date Taken: 10.28.2011
• Date Posted: 10.28.2011 14:36
• Story ID: 79210
• Location: MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, SC, US