FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Financial concerns carry a heavy influence on Aggie Veteran success. We strongly believe that money should never come between a veteran and their education, which is why we have established a number of financial support programs aimed to ensure Aggie Veteran financial stability, each one with a unique focus.
There are many types of Scholarships available to Aggie Veterans, from general scholarships available their first semester through their initial admission scholarship application, to continuing scholarships through the VRSC and University. With nearly 200 scholarships available through the VRSC alone, the odds of receiving a veteran-focused scholarship are extremely favorable.
An Aggie Ring is cherished tradition for which every Aggie eagerly awaits their eligibility. Nothing is more discouraging than meeting the eligibility criteria, then being unable to afford the purchase. That is why the VRSC and the Association of Former Students partner to offer the Aggie Rings for Veterans scholarship, generously funded by donors. Eligibility criteria and application deadlines apply.
Located within the VRSC is a textbook lending library that currently contains around 6,000 volumes and is run by student organization, Aggie Shields. Commonly referred to as "Shields" the library offers fee-free loaner textbooks for Aggie Veterans and military-connected students at Texas A&M & Blinn. The library also loans out calculators, iClickers and other select supplies. Priority for lending is given to Aggie Veterans and Gold Star students; remaining volumes/supplies are open to other military-connected students.
Emergencies happen and many times they have a hefty financial component. The Student Aggie Veteran Enhancement (S.A.V.E.) Fund is there to help. Eligible Aggie Veterans can receive emergency assistance up to $1500 to help alleviate financial hardships that threaten their continued enrollment and success. Currently enrolled Aggie Veterans should complete the SAVE Application Request Form for eligibility criteria and application.
The rising cost of childcare should not be the determining factor in an Aggie Veterans ability to successfully remain enrolled. The SAVE-SP Childcare Fund provides limited financial assistance to Aggie Veterans that helps offset the financial burden of childcare. Parenting Aggie Veterans are strongly encouraged to seek additional information about this program that could help. For more information, eligibility criteria, and application, please complete the SAVE-SP Assistance Request Form.
Research shows that being hungry is associated with poor mental and physical health as well as academic success. The VRSC manages several programs to ensure Aggie Veterans' stomachs are just as well fed as their brains!
Located within the VRSC is a Pocket Pantry, which provides discreet and easy access to non-perishable food and personal hygiene items. Any VRSC staff member can provide access to the pantry, which is generously funded through a grant from Brazos Valley Cares.
In addition are a few community food pantries to supplement what the Pocket Pantry may not have available: The 12th Can and the Brazos Valley Food Pantries.
Meals for Vets is a partnership program with Honor Vets Now that provides eligible Aggie Veterans a free meal plan that includes one meal per day at a campus dining hall. Full eligibility requirements and information on the program can be found on the official Meals for Vets site. *Please note at this time, Meals for Vets is not accepting applications for the program. Stay tuned for updates.