Tuition assistance funding for Marine Corps Base Quantico is gone. Only nine days into the quarter, which began Jan. 1, students learned the allotment had been exhausted.

“Generally we have about 1,800 applications per quarter [that are funded] for TA,” said Melora McVicker, education services officer at the Voluntary Education Center. “This quarter we received enough [money] to fund approximately 379.”

Although the news may have blindsided some, Chief Warrant Officer Jason Kirk, instructor at The Communications School on base, was prepared. He found an alternative resource to offset his education costs through the Illinois Veteran Grant Program, which pays full tuition for veterans who were state residents at the time of recruitment.

Kirk is working toward a Master’s degree in Management Information Technology online at the University of Illinois. His tuition and fees totaled around $2,750 for the spring semester. However he only paid $250 out-of-pocket and the state program handled the rest.

McVicker said his successful outcome is an example of what can happen when Marines look beyond TA for financial assistance.

“In this fiscally constrained time, it’s important that [service members] exhaust all opportunities,” McVicker said. “We encourage students to put in applications for tuition assistance but definitely have a backup plan in case they don’t get funding.”

Whether it’s researching options through financial aid, grants, scholarships or programs similar to Illinois Veteran Grant Program, McVicker said exploring every opportunity is critical to ensuring degree completion. Students can schedule appointments with career counselors, who are knowledgeable and can help find the best financial opportunity for each individual.

Despite budget uncertainty, Kirk said the benefits of getting a higher education is still worth the challenge.

“Having a Master’s degree is going to make me better at my job in the Marine Corps, and it also helps with promotions,” Kirk said.

Students who want to take courses next quarter are urged to set up an appointment at the education center by contacting 703-784-3340, at least a month before enrollment so counselors have ample time to assist in finding funding programs.

McVicker said, despite education obstacles, she remains optimistic.

“I’m confident that Marines are experts at finding a way and they will continue to reach their academic goals,” McVicker said.

Writer: afelton@quanticosentryonline.com