Wisconsin Army National Guard Makes Higher Education Accessible and Affordable for Young Adults

As college tuition costs continue to rise, placing a significant financial burden on families across Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Army National Guard offers a viable economic solution through its comprehensive educational benefits program. The initiative is designed to support the educational and career goals of young Wisconsinites while serving their state and nation.

The average college student in the United States graduates with approximately $30,000 in student loan debt after completing a four-year degree, according to a study by US World News and Report.

“The rising cost of college tuition is a major concern for many families in our state,” said Lt. Colonel Shannon Hellenbrand, leader of the Recruiting and Retention Brigade for the Wisconsin Army National Guard. “Our goal is to ensure that financial constraints do not limit the bright young minds of Wisconsin from achieving their educational dreams. Service in the Wisconsin Army National Guard not only helps mitigate these costs but also provides valuable life and career skills.”

By serving one weekend a month and two weeks every summer with the Wisconsin Army National Guard, soldiers can pursue higher education without the burden of excessive debt. Soldiers of the Wisconsin Amry National Guard are eligible for the Wisconsin National Guard Tuition Grant, which covers up to 100% of tuition expenses at any University of Wisconsin System or Wisconsin Technical College System institution. This grant is in addition to other federal educational benefits, such as the Montgomery GI Bill, and can be combined with scholarships or other financial aid, providing a comprehensive financial package that often covers the entirety of college costs.

As a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, a student/soldier can attend school full-time AND receive a monthly salary that helps cover additional expenses.

“By helping make higher education more accessible and affordable, we see soldiers graduate with a degree and money in their bank account rather than thousands of dollars in debt,” adds Hellenbrand.

SSG Hannah Ostertag, an Oshkosh resident who joined the Guard in 2016 and then earned two degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison says, “Being part of the Wisconsin Army National Guard has been an incredible opportunity. The Guard’s support in paying for my college education has allowed me to pursue my academic dreams without the burden of financial stress. With the help of the Guard, I earned two degrees in three years, without incurring any debt.”