Home  »  Paying For School   »   Coast Guard Tuition Assistance Overview

Coast Guard Tuition Assistance Overview

Updated | Julie Provost
coast guard tuition assistance

While serving in the US Coast Guard, you might be interested in going to college. One of the Coast Guard’s benefits is the USCG Tuition Assistance program.  You can receive money for some or all of your classes depending on the degree you want to pursue.

USCG Tuition Assistance

Who can use Tuition Assistance in the Coast Guard?

Active-duty enlisted personnel and officers may apply for Tuition Assistance if they meet the requirements outlined in the latest ALCOAST. Personnel must complete the authorized course on or before release from active duty, discharge, or retirement.

Members of the Selected Reserve (SELRES) are eligible for TA. Reserve members on long-term active duty orders for more than 180 days also qualify. Navy Chaplains serving with the Coast Guard must use the Navy Tuition Assistance program.

What can you use Tuition Assistance for?

USCG Tuition Assistance covers undergraduate and graduate courses up to a first master’s degree. It covers approved high school completion programs for those without a diploma. Developmental courses are authorized if required before higher-level coursework. The program covers only tuition and does not cover fees. Colleges must be eligible under the Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

How much is Tuition Assistance?

The annual maximum cap is $4,500 per fiscal year. The Coast Guard pays up to $250 per semester hour, $166.67 per quarter hour, or $16.67 per clock hour. There are no lifetime credit hour limits for undergraduate or graduate work.

How do I apply for TA?

Members must submit TA applications through the MyCG Ed portal. You must consult with your Educational Services Officer (ESO) to ensure the application is reviewed and approved. The Coast Guard pays the college directly.

When can I apply for TA?

You must apply for Tuition Assistance at least 14 days before the class start date. You may apply up to 90 days before the start date. A mandatory degree plan is required after completing six semester hours or two courses using TA.

TA Repayment

You must repay TA if you:

  • Do not receive a passing grade.

  • Receive an incomplete.

  • Withdraw after the college’s refund cut-off date.

  • Separate from the military before course completion.

  • Fail to submit your grade within the policy timeline.

You can look up over 2,100 schools that accept Tuition Assistance in the CollegeRecon School Search tool.  Under the tab labeled “Vet/Military Service, please check the filter “Approved for TA Funding.”

 

RELATED:

 

OTHER TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS:

 

 

 

About the author

Julie Provost is a freelance writer, and blogger. She lives in Tennessee with her National Guard husband and three boys.

Tagged: