Fry Scholarship
Free college and housing money for children and surviving spouses of service members who died in the line of duty after Sept 10, 2001.
The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship gives Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits to the children and surviving spouses of active-duty service members who died in the line of duty on or after September 10, 2001. Eligible survivors get up to 36 months of benefits — full in-state tuition and fees at public schools (or up to a national cap at private and foreign schools), a monthly housing allowance based on the school's location, and a books and supplies stipend up to $1,000 per year. Children can use the scholarship between ages 18 and 33; surviving spouses have 15 years from the service member's death and lose eligibility if they remarry (a spouse who chooses Fry Scholarship cannot also receive Chapter 35 DEA). Apply online at va.gov using VA Form 22-5490, and your school's certifying official can help with enrollment certifications.
In real life
- The teenage son of an Army sergeant killed in Afghanistan uses the Fry Scholarship to attend a state university tuition-free.
- A surviving spouse uses Fry Scholarship benefits to finish a nursing degree.
- A child of a service member who died on active duty in 2010 starts using Fry Scholarship at age 19.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Fry Scholarship
Who qualifies?+
Children and surviving spouses of service members who died in the line of duty on or after September 10, 2001.
What does it pay?+
In-state tuition and fees at public schools, monthly housing allowance, and a books stipend — up to 36 months.
Can I use Fry Scholarship and Chapter 35 DEA together?+
No. Surviving spouses must choose one. Children can sometimes use both but not at the same time.
How do I apply?+
File VA Form 22-5490 online at va.gov/education/how-to-apply.
Source: va.gov