Public Safety Recruitment & Retention Act Scholarship

As a result of Senate Bill 71 (PDF and Web), the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development implemented a scholarship to assist eligible public safety personnel and their dependent children pursuing a license or certification issued by a training entity accredited or certified pursuant to 190.131 or a qualifying postsecondary degree from a Missouri public or independent college or university.

Eligibility Requirements

The scholarship helps cover the costs of tuition for public safety personnel with at least 6 years of service and the dependent children of public safety personnel with at least 10 years of service. Additionally, individuals must meet other eligibility requirements to qualify, including (but not limited to):

• Proof of residence in Missouri (must also provide proof of residence for a minimum of 5 years once approved for the award)
• Have not already earned a baccalaureate (bachelor’s) degree
• Be enrolled into an approved institution or training program to pursue a qualifying postsecondary
  degree or credential
• File a Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA)

What Documentation may be required?

To verify eligibility, the department will request one or more of the following:

• A current, valid license issued by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services authorizing you or your parent to serve as an emergency medical technician, advanced emergency medical technician, or paramedic
• A current, valid license issued by the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission authorizing you or your parent to serve as a peace officer pursuant to the provisions of Section 590 of Missouri statutes
• A valid certificate issued by the Missouri Division of Fire Safety as determined by DHEWD
• A current, valid certificate confirming  successful completion of any ongoing training requirements pursuant to section 650.340 of Missouri statues
• For all public safety personnel, a certificate of verification signed by the individual's supervisor or employer verifying they are currently employed full-time as public safety personnel and trained and authorized by law or rule to render emergency medical assistance or treatment

How to Apply

To apply, you must:

• Create an account and login to the Student Financial Aid Portal
• Click on the "Estimate Eligibility" tab and select the academic year you would like to apply for
• Select "Apply" next to Public Safety Recruitment & Retention
• Complete the application and upload required documents, including the employment verification form, to verify eligibility