Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit
Free tuition at Minnesota public colleges plus $750/year for dependents of veterans who died from service.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — Minnesota
- Who it's for
- Spouses, Survivors, Dependents
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Estimated value
- Full tuition + $750/year
- Where it applies
- Minnesota
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit?
Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit is a Minnesota education & training benefit for spouses, survivors, dependents. Free tuition at Minnesota public colleges plus $750/year for dependents of veterans who died from service. The listed value is Full tuition + $750/year.
Who qualifies
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- Minnesota residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Unremarried surviving spouse or child of a service member who died on active duty or from a service-connected condition. Veteran must have been a MN resident when entering military or for 6 months prior to death. Applicant must be a MN resident. No age limitation.
Covers full tuition plus $750/fiscal year for fees, books, supplies, and/or room and board.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: mn.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit
Who qualifies for Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit?▾
How much is Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit worth?▾
How do I apply for Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit?▾
Where can I verify Surviving Spouse & Dependent Education Benefit?▾
Other Minnesota Education & Training
Minnesota GI Bill
Up to $15,000 lifetime ($5,000/year max) for tuition, fees, and approved training at eligible MN institutions.
Up to $15,000 lifetime
Veteran Education Assistance Grant
One-time $750 grant for veterans who have exhausted federal GI Bill benefits.
$750 (one-time)
Resident Tuition Rate for Veterans
Veterans (and Section 702-eligible spouses/dependents) treated as Minnesota residents for tuition at public institutions; graduate rate requires MN residency at enlistment.
Thousands per year in tuition savings
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