Military Spouses & Dependents Scholarships
Carroll H. Payne Memorial Scholarship
Who is it for?
Military Family Members and Military Affiliated Organizations
About Scholarship
The Carroll H. Payne (CHP) Memorial Scholarship is FCEF’s flagship scholarship program. Created in 2005 by the Payne family to honor the legacy of Carroll H. Payne, founder of First Command Financial Services. Their generous $500,000 gift enabled FCEF to expand scholarship opportunities for military families nationwide.
The CHP Scholarship is built through partnerships with military-affiliated organizations, working alongside FCFS advisors and community groups to increase local scholarship access. FCEF proudly collaborates with organizations such as the Monterey Bay Spouses Club, the East Bay Coast Guard Spouses Club, and the Military Spouses of Newport.
How to become a partner
Interested in partnering with FCEF?
2025 CHP Scholarship PArtners
Impact Spotlight: Jennifer Barnhill (Military Spouse Scholarship Recipient, 2020)
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Barnhill. Since earning her scholarship, Jennifer has completed a master’s degree, had her work cited by the White House, been featured by UNC, been invited to become a Bush Institute Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program Scholar, and been named the 2025 Armed Forces Insurance Navy Spouse of the Year.
Military Spouse Scholarship
Who is it for?
Military Spouses
About Scholarship
Military spouses make unique sacrifices for their families. They often put their education, careers, and goals on hold due to the demands of supporting their spouses’ service to our country, including frequent relocations and deployments.
What it funds: Traditional college/graduate programs, vocational/trade school, and continuing education certification.
Award amounts: FCEF seeks to award $25,000 per year in military spouse scholarships.
How to apply
Eligible candidates may submit their applications directly to https://FCEF.awardspring.com. The application period is from October 1 – 31.
Military Spouse GED Scholarship Program
Who is it for?
Military Spouses
About Scholarship
A high school diploma or GED is more than a credential. It is a critical entry point to both lifelong learning and economic opportunity.
Individuals with a high school diploma or GED typically have lower unemployment rates, earn higher wages over their lifetime, and are better positioned to pursue college, career certifications, apprenticeships, and workforce training. By helping relieve the financial burden of obtaining a GED, this scholarship empowers military spouses to strengthen their earning potential, overcome long-term economic barriers, and access new educational and career pathways that create lasting opportunities for themselves and their families.
The Military Spouse GED Program Scholarship provides up to $500 to help military spouses earn their high school equivalency credential. Eligible expenses include textbooks, study materials, preparation courses, and official testing fees. Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient’s GED program provider, removing financial barriers and enabling students to stay focused on achieving this important milestone.
Elegible Spouses of:
• Active Duty, Activated National Guard, or Reserve
• U.S. military veteran, honorably discharged
• Proof of eligibility required
Criteria:
Must be enrolled or accepted into a state-approved GED program
Jim Lanier Memorial Scholarship
Who is it for?
Dependents of active duty service members from all branches of the military
About Scholarship
Colonel James (Jim) Lanier lived a life defined by service, leadership, faith, and generosity. Commissioned into the U.S. Army in 1961, he served with distinction for 22 years, earning numerous honors and graduating from both the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and the National War College. After retiring as a Colonel, he began a second career with First Command Financial Services, where he later served as President and Chairman of the Board.
While his professional accomplishments were significant, Jim was most admired for his character, a man of deep faith who quietly sought opportunities to serve others. He believed leadership was a responsibility and helping those in need was a calling.
Established by his family, the Colonel James (Jim) Newton Lanier Memorial Scholarship honors his enduring commitment to service by investing in the future of those who serve. This scholarship supports high school and college students who are children of active duty service members and are pursuing undergraduate or vocational degrees, ensuring that his spirit of generosity continues to create opportunities for the next generation.
How to apply
Ideal candidates demonstrate excellence in academics and active involvement in extracurricular activities such as athletics, community service, and or employment.
Applicants must be:
- Dependents of active duty service members from all branches of the military
- High school or college students
- Pursuing undergraduate programs or vocational education
Application Details:
Applications are accepted from May 1 to May 31
Interested candidates may submit their applications directly to FCEF
