Scholarship applications are now open for families of law enforcement and correctional officers

Applications are now open for a new scholarship that covers tuition and fees at Arizona’s higher education institutions for the families of law enforcement and correctional officers beginning this fall. The scholarship comes after final approval of a new policy by the Arizona Board of Regents in February.

“It is an honor to pay tribute to the families of these officers who keep our communities safe. They deserve our gratitude for the jobs that put their lives on the line every day,” said ABOR Chair Cecilia Mata. “Our board appreciates their service and we’re pleased to facilitate access to higher education for their families through this new scholarship.”

As part of the state budget passed in 2023, the Arizona State Legislature appropriated $2 million to fund the scholarship, which is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Students can apply here.

The scholarship, available for the fall 2024 semester, will cover the cost of tuition and mandatory fees after other financial aid. For eligible students at a private postsecondary educational institution, awards are up to the average resident tuition and fees charged by universities under the jurisdiction of the board after other financial aid.

Qualifying students must be either a dependent under 27 or a spouse of a law enforcement or correctional officer, and:

• Enroll at an Arizona institution in a program that will award a career technical education district program certificate or license, private vocational program certificate, associate degree or baccalaureate degree.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Submit a copy of the Law Enforcement Officer’s Commission Card as applicable.
• Submit a current employment verification letter.
• Submit a marriage certificate for a spouse, or a birth certificate or applicable court order for a dependent.

More information can be found at: www.azregents.edu/law-spousesdependents. Questions about the scholarship may be sent to SDLES@azregents.edu.

Additional scholarships and programs covering costs at the universities include the Veterans Spouses scholarship, Arizona Promise Program and the Arizona Teachers Academy.