STEM TUTORING GRANT PROGRAM

Many post-9/11 veterans entering higher education face significant challenges in math, science, engineering, and technology coursework. These academic barriers can impede progress towards STEM degrees or related career pathways. Sentinels of Freedom (SOF) is committed to supporting veterans’ academic success by strengthening access to high-quality, in-person STEM tutoring at colleges and universities.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Sentinels of Freedom STEM Tutoring Grant Program provides financial support to institutions with established Student Veteran Resource Centers (SVRCs) to expand or enhance tutoring services for veterans enrolled in STEM-related courses. The program aims to:

Improve academic performance and course completion in STEM subjects
Increase persistence in STEM degree pathways
Build confidence and self-efficacy in challenging academic areas
Support long-term educational and career success for veterans

GRANT DETAILS

Amount: $5,000 per grant.
Purpose: To supplement the cost of in-person tutoring for eligible post-9/11 veterans enrolled in STEM-related courses
Funding Rate: Grant funds may cover up to $20 per hour of tutor compensation – institutions may set their own tutor wages, but must cover costs exceeding $20 per hour
Disbursement: Funds are released upon approval of the application and execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Grant Period: One academic year, with the potential renewal based on performance, reporting compliance, and demonstrated impact

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Operational Student Veteran Resource Center (SVRC)
- Institutions must have an active SVRC that:
- Provides dedicated support services for student veterans
- Is staffed by personnel trained to assist with academic, career, and personal needs
- Maintains regular operating hours and provides an accessible space for student engagement
Eligible Beneficiaries:
- Only post-9/11 veterans are eligible to receive tutoring funded by this grant
- Spouses, dependents, or non-veteran students are not eligible under this program
Tutoring Program Requirements:
Institutions must:
- Provide in-person tutoring services for STEM-related courses
- Ensure tutoring is delivered by qualified tutors, such as faculty, peer tutors, graduate assistants, or professional staff
- Maintain appropriate tutor-to-student ratios to ensure individualized support (one-on-one or small group sessions are acceptable)
- Track tutoring sessions, attendance, and hours in a consistent and verifiable manner
- Tutoring may be offered on a walk-in basis during set weekly hours or through scheduled appointments
Definition of STEM-Related Courses
- Mathematics (developmental through advanced)
- Biology, chemistry, physics
- Engineering and engineering technology
- Computer science, information technology, cybersecurity
- Statistics, data science, and related analytical coursework

Institutions may request clarification for courses not explicitly listed.

STEM APPLICATION

To be considered for the Sentinels’ of Freedom STEM Tutoring Grant please fill out the form below.

STEM Grant Application

Step 1 of 4

Institution Name(Required)

Institution Address(Required)

Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country

Institution Phone(Required)

Institution Email(Required)

Year Institution was Founded(Required)

“This amazing program has afforded me and my wife the opportunity to go back to school and pursue meaningful careers. Our family is forever grateful.”

Sentinel Andrew Leavine

U.S. Army, Bachelors of Educational Studies from Saint Leo University