National Guard

The Army National Guard provides financial assistance to students who wish to attend college and enlist in the Guard with two major scholarships: the Dedicated Army National Guard scholarship (DEDNG) and the Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty contract (GRFD).GRFD and DEDNG scholarships are for full-time students. These scholarships pay full tuition and mandatory fees, or can pay room and board (not to exceed $10,000 per year). In addition, cadets will be paid a monthly stipend. Following graduation, cadets begin a new Military Service Obligation (MSO) contract and serve eight years in the Guard, which includes training. Read Below for more information on each option.

School Year 2025-2026 Qualifications

Currently in the Army National Guard or eligible to enlist (meaning test and physically qualified but not sworn in)
U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
Between the ages of 17-28; cannot turn 31 by 31 December of the year of commissioning
Valid Chapter 2 MEPS physical for enlistment
Able to pass a Cadet Command Army Combat Fitness Test (required to sign a contract and receive scholarship benefits)
Be in compliance with AR 600-9 body composition standards
Official University/College acceptance letter
Applicants require: 2.5 GPA, SAT or ACT scores, and 31 or higher ASVAB score
Pass ROTC Professor of Military Science commander interview
Enroll in ROTC
Willing to participate in the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP)

***Nursing majors are ineligible to receive a minuteman scholarship regardless of length or component.***

To compete for Active Duty:

State Tuition Assistance (Pays up front)

$10,000 per semester

Internship:

Work hand and hand, 1 weekend per month with a Commissioned Officer in the branch that you are interested in.

If you have questions regarding the National Guard application process, please contact our Texas National Guard SMP Counselor.