Non-Traditional Student Scholarship Opening Soon

About This Scholarship

The American Legion Auxiliary's Non-Traditional Student Scholarship is aimed at adults heading back to the classroom — students returning to school after an interruption in their formal education or starting a degree, trade, or professional certification later in life. Five $2,000 scholarships are awarded annually, one in each of the ALA's five divisions.

Eligibility runs through the American Legion Family, but there are paths that do not require membership: honorably discharged veterans qualify outright, as do spouses of active-duty servicemembers or honorably discharged veterans. Members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion qualify if they have held membership for the two preceding years and are paid for the current year.

The application is refreshingly light for a national award: an online form plus a resume or personal statement, with proof of military service where applicable and optional transcripts. Applications open in September and close March 1 Eastern.

Eligibility

• Non-traditional student: returning to school after an educational interruption or beginning postsecondary education later in life
• Qualify via one of: two-plus years of American Legion, ALA, or Sons of The American Legion membership; honorably discharged veteran status; or spouse of an active-duty servicemember or honorably discharged veteran
• Pursuing a certified trade, professional, technical program, or a college degree
• Attending or accepted at an accredited institution

How To Apply

• Complete the online Formstack application on the ALA website after the September opening
• Attach a resume or personal statement, proof of military service if qualifying as a veteran or military spouse, and optional transcripts
• Submit by March 1 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern

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