Many families rely on Federal Stafford Loans or Federal Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) to finance higher education. CGMA helps ease the financial burden by offering a grant to reimburse the mandatory loan fee. This grant helps reduce upfront costs, making the loan process more manageable. CGMA reserves the right to limit the grant amount, with a maximum combined total of up to $4,000 per individual.
Scholarship Details
- Educational loans provided through Stafford and PLUS programs
- Available to help with costs at most two-year and four-year colleges, universities, graduate and professional institutions, and vocational/technical schools
- The number of awards varies annually depending on applicants
- Part of CGMA’s broader mission to provide financial assistance and support to the Coast Guard community
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to active duty and retired U.S. Coast Guard personnel
- Eligible applicants also include Coast Guard civilian employees, Coast Guard Auxiliarists, and Public Health Service Officers serving with the Coast Guard
- Spouses and dependent children of eligible personnel may also apply
Application Process
- Confirm eligibility as Coast Guard personnel, spouse, or dependent
- Identify a participating educational institution (two-year, four-year, graduate/professional, or vocational/technical school)
- Complete the appropriate Stafford or PLUS loan application form through CGMA
- Submit required supporting documentation, such as proof of enrollment and financial need
- Await confirmation of loan approval and details regarding disbursement
All CGMA members are eligible for the grant on behalf of themselves, their spouses, or their dependent children under 23. Applications must be submitted within 12 months after the date the loan funds are disbursed.
