Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. DC National Guard Retention and College Access Program (DC TA)

Up to $20,500 a year in tuition assistance for current DC National Guard members (degrees, certificates, licensure and credentials).

How much

Up to $20,500 per fiscal year (up to $20,000 tuition + $500 fees; $16,000 max at schools without a DoD MOU)

Who qualifies

• Current DC National Guard member (Army or Air)
• At least two years of service remaining after the last day of the funded course; good standing (no flags, unfavorable information file or pending adverse actions); meets readiness standards (fitness, medical/dental, security clearance). Eligible from enlistment, before initial training, if classes don't conflict with training.
• For students starting college, undergrads, grad students, trade school students, adults going back to school

When to apply

Apply any time Rolling; apply at least 30 days before each course starts. Payment paperwork due by Aug 15 each year for fiscal-year closeout.

How to apply

1. At least 30 days before the course starts, submit the DC TA application on the DC TA website (dcngta.com) with the signed Statement of Understanding, a commander-signed Memorandum of Good Standing, a degree plan, an itemized cost statement from the school, and Federal TA eligibility documentation
2. Submit grades within 30 days after the course ends

What you'll need

state application + membership

Last checked

October 5, 2026, against the official page (dc.ng.mil) and page 2