Start your scholarship research by identifying the grants and scholarships that apply to the child of a veteran. There are financial aid clearinghouse sites which will help narrow your search parameters to the grants and scholarships for which a particular student qualifies.
Many scholarships and grants for children of veterans and active duty personnel require possession of a current military identification card. DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) and TRICARE (medical network) can also aid in proof of identification.
In addition to scholarships and grants your local advisors may be aware of, an online search can assist in finding aid that suits your unique qualifications and interests. For example, your sponsor's involvement in squadron organizations may qualify you for a scholarship awarded by that group, or if your parent is a disabled veteran, there are specific grants available only to the children of disabled veterans.
Check with local and state governments about grants and scholarships, many have funding earmarked for veterans and their children. Children of active duty personnel will qualify for different programs than those of deceased or disabled veterans. Students pursuing advanced degrees also qualify for different aid than undergraduates. College admissions and financial aid offices can also direct you to programs unique to the school which will help as a dependent of a veteran.
As the child of a veteran or active-duty military personnel, you may be eligible for aid from fraternal organizations such as AmVets or the American Legion. Groups such as Daughters of the American Revolution and NCOA (Non-Commissioned Officers Association) often award scholarships at both the local and national level.
If you are a college-bound veteran's dependent, the sooner you begin your scholarship and grant research, the better. Deadlines and requirements for various aid awards will vary, particularly throughout the senior year of high school, so it may be beneficial to begin mid-Junior year. Many public universities and colleges offer tuition discounts to dependents of veterans, particularly deployed, disabled or deceased vets.