Program Overview
The Colorado National Guard (CONG) Tuition Waiver Program replaced the State Tuition Assistance (TA) Program on July 1, 2025. This new waiver now covers 100% of tuition costs for eligible members of the Colorado National Guard enrolled at Colorado state-supported institutions.
It's important to note that the waiver does not cover mandatory fees, textbooks, or other related educational expenses. Service members are highly encouraged to utilize other financial aid options such as state grants, Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA), or their GI Bill benefits to help cover these additional costs.
Our goal is to ensure that CONG members have the resources necessary to achieve their educational aspirations, whether pursuing a degree, certificate, or professional development courses, reflecting our commitment to their continuous learning and growth.
- Must be an active member of the Colorado Army or Air National Guard.
- Must be in good standing with the CONG (e.g., not flagged for adverse action, satisfactory drill attendance).
- Must have completed Basic Training (no waiting period for members who transfer from other states).
- Must be admitted to a Designated Institution of Higher Education (DIHE) in Colorado.
- Courses must be part of an approved degree, certificate, or diploma program.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (undergraduate) or 3.0 (graduate) for continued eligibility.
- Applicants must submit a FAFSA or CASFA annually.
- ROTC scholarship recipients are eligible if they chose the "room and board" option; those who chose the "tuition and fees" option are not eligible.
- The program does not have an additional service obligation.
Step 1: Contact Your Unit's Education NCO/Officer.
They can provide specific guidance and unit-level requirements.
Step 2: Apply for Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA) First (if eligible).
CONG TA is often a secondary funding source. Apply for FTA through GoArmyEd or the Air Force Virtual Education Center (AFVEC).
Step 3: Complete the CONG Tuition Waiver Application.
Access the state-specific application form, often available through the Colorado National Guard portal or your Education office. Ensure all sections are filled out accurately and completely.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents.
This typically includes your course registration, itemized tuition statement, degree plan, and any other documents requested by the state education office.
Step 5: Submit Your Application.
Submit all documents to your CONG Education Office by the established deadlines for the academic term you are seeking the waiver for.
Important Notes & Policies
- Coverage Limits: The waiver can be used for up to 65 credit hours at 2-year institutions, 130 credit hours at 4-year institutions, and a combination of up to 145 hours.
- Postgraduate & Certificates: It covers **one postgraduate degree** (Master's, Doctoral, or Professional) and **one Certificate of Completion**.
- Deadlines: The application period for the Colorado National Guard Tuition Waiver is closed (applications submitted after July 31, 2025, were not accepted). Please contact your CONG Education Office for future announcements.
- Withdrawals/Failures: Withdrawal from or failure to complete courses for which the CONG Tuition Waiver was approved may result in recoupment of funds.
- Accreditation: Ensure your chosen institution and program are fully accredited and a Designated Institution of Higher Education (DIHE) in Colorado.
- Contact Your Education Office: For the most up-to-date information, specific state policies, and assistance, always contact your CONG Education Office.
Contact Information
For detailed questions and assistance regarding the Colorado National Guard Tuition Waiver Program, please contact:
Office Hours: Monday - Friday: 0800 - 1600