Understanding the Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver

The Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver (NGTW) program stands as a testament to the state's commitment to its citizen soldiers and airmen. This article delves into the specifics of the NGTW, outlining its purpose, eligibility criteria, and how it is administered, drawing from the codified rules and regulations governing the program. This rule implements Act 471 of the 91st General Assembly, Act 535 of the 92nd General Assembly, and Acts 76 and 133 of the 93rd General Assembly, and Act 275 of the 94th General Assembly.

Purpose and Applicability

The Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver Program aims to support and encourage active members of the Arkansas Army and Air National Guard in their pursuit of higher education. The program covers 100% of college tuition at any Arkansas State College. This initiative recognizes the dedication and service of these individuals and seeks to provide them with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The NGTW applies to all active members of the Arkansas Army and Air National Guard as defined in Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 60, Subchapter 2. The words "soldier" or "soldiers" and "airman" or "airmen" are intended to include both masculine and feminine gender unless specifically stated otherwise.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver, applicants must meet several criteria, including being an Arkansas resident or eligible for in-state tuition under A.C.A. The program defines necessary responsibilities and sets forth entitlement criteria, ensuring that only those who meet the standards receive the waiver.

Administration of the NGTW Program

The administration of the Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver program involves several key steps and responsibilities. The UA Little Rock office that determines eligibility and applies the NGTA benefits to student’s accounts is the Office of Financial Aid. The UA Little Rock Financial Aid Office processes NGTA benefits for students’ accounts.

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Key Steps

Eligibility Confirmation: Institutions must confirm a guardsman's satisfactory progress towards the degree. The Education Office may submit unofficial transcripts to the Education Office. Continued NGTW eligibility beyond 120 semester credit hours goes to ADHE.
Application of Funds: The waiver will only apply to tuition and not fees.
Coordination with Other Programs: The NGTW is designed to work in conjunction with other educational programs established by the Department of Defense.
Approval Process: The recommendation of approval goes to ADHE, based on the availability of funds and approval of ADHE.

Financial Aid and Additional Benefits

The Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver primarily covers tuition costs. It's important to note that the waiver will only apply to tuition and not fees. Guardsmen should be aware of this distinction when budgeting for their education.

Additional Benefits for Air National Guard Members

Arkansas Air National Guard members have exclusive access to distinctive auto plates absolutely free. Arkansas state employees who join the Air National Guard receive 15 days of paid military leave per year and 30 days of paid leave upon activation. Air National Guard members are paid equally based on their rank and years of service. You’re also eligible for additional compensation based on your position and where you’re stationed.

Coordination with Federal Programs

It's crucial to understand how the NGTW interacts with federal programs like the GI Bill®. GI BILL® (Ch 1606) is paid directly to the Soldier and can be used to pay tuition, fees, books, etc., but has strict eligibility guidelines based on each Soldier’s service and in most cases does not have a deadline for requesting funds.

Moreover, the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 offers educational benefits to eligible veterans. Some institutions participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which can further assist with educational expenses. J. Sam M. by the VMSC. The Yellow Ribbon Program operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Specific Contacts

For specific inquiries, individuals can reach out to various offices:

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Undergraduate Admissions - 232 Silas H.
Law School Admissions - Robert A.
Office of the Registrar - 146 Silas H.
Office of Financial Aid - 114 Silas H.
Office of Academic Scholarships - 114 Silas H.

Conditions and Exceptions

The NGTW program also addresses specific scenarios and exceptions. For instance, there are provisions for students pursuing a single Bachelor's degree at two institutions, provided both institutions are NGTW eligible.