Skip to main content

info@wsac.wa.gov | (360) 753-7800

National Guard Postsecondary Education Grant (NGG)

Update 11/30/2023: The 2023-24 NGG application is now open. NGG has adopted term-by-term "Priority Consideration Dates." Please see “How to Apply” for additional information. For any questions related to the NGG application or the National Guard Grant itself, please contact us.

ngg-web-banner

Washington National Guard members can get money for college or training

  • Grant helps pay college costs not covered by other financial aid. 
  • Applications for the 2022-23 academic year are closed.
  • Applications for the 2023-24 academic year are now being accepted.

ngg-apply-now-button

The National Guard Grant helps members of the Washington National Guard get an approved degree or certificate. Graduate students can apply beginning with the 2022-23 academic year. Participants commit to serving one year (served concurrently with contract) in exchange for each year of funding.

We are currently updating the National Guard Grant Program Guide and Frequently Asked Questions.

About the Program

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Participants must meet the following requirements:

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Service Obligation

Service Obligation

Participants must fulfill the following obligations:

  • Serve one year in the National Guard for each year of Washington National Guard Grant funding received. Service begins after the last day of the final term of the academic year for which funds are received.
  • Maintain good standing as a member of the Washington National Guard.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress in the degree or certificate program where enrolled.

How to Apply

How to Apply
  • Applications for the 2022-23 academic year are closed.
  • Applications for the 2023-24 academic year are now being accepted.

New for 2023-24: NGG has adopted Priority Consideration Dates (PCD). Applications will continue to be accepted after the set dates; however, if demand for NGG exceeds the budget, applications submitted after the term’s Priority Consideration Date will be subject to available funds.

2023-24 Priority Consideration Dates

Term

Priority Consideration Date

Summer 20231

May 15, 2023

Fall 2023

June 26, 2023

Winter quarter / spring semester 2024

October 9, 2023

Spring quarter 2024

February 12, 2024

Summer 20242

April 17, 2024

1For institutions that classify their Summer term at the start of the academic year.  Payments for this term may not meet tuition payment deadlines.

2For institutions that classify their Summer term at the end of the academic year.

Important steps:

  • Complete the online National Guard Grant application.
  • Complete a FAFSA or WASFA financial aid application.
  • Applicants who are eligible to apply for Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) are encouraged to apply for both NGG and FTA. WSAC understands that not all service members are eligible to apply for FTA. Those who are ineligible for FTA should still apply for NGG.

2023-24 NGG Awards

2023-24 NGG Awards

NGG received a budget increase; however, we forecast the budget will be insufficient to meet demand. Maximum NGG base award values will remain at their current balanced levels for the 2023-24 academic year and priority will be given to applicants without their first baccalaureate degree:

Two-year community & technical colleges

$1,500

Western Governors University Washington

$2,500

Applied baccalaureate programs at CTCs

$3,500

Four-year regional public institutions

$3,500

Four-year private non-profit institutions

$5,500

Four-year public research institutions

$5,500

  • Maximum NGG awards can also include up to a $500 one-time allowance for books and supplies. 
  • Applicants who are eligible to apply for Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) are encouraged to apply for both NGG and FTA. WSAC understands that not all service members are eligible to apply for FTA. Those who are ineligible for FTA should still apply for NGG.