State Aid: Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program (RIRP)

Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program (RIRP) is a tuition benefit for active NYS National Guard members. It provides eligible, qualified applicants who have completed advanced individual training within the NYS Military Forces (Army and Air National Guard, Naval Militia) the cost of tuition up to $4,350 per calendar year. It will cover tuition after all other financial aid has been applied to charges. Students complete the FAFSA, TAP and DMNA96-1 form (available from one’s individual National Guard unit).

The following are basic RIRP eligibility requirements:
(for complete eligibility requirements, please see DMNA Regulation 621-1) (PDF)

  • Be in good standing in the State Military Forces (attend or make-up all drills and annual training);
  • Be accepted and enrolled in college in an undergraduate, degree-producing program for a minimum of six (6) credit hours per semester or four (4) credit hours per quarter;
  • Maintain eligibility for the entire period of your application;
  • Be a resident of the State of New York for a period of 186 days prior to using the program for the first time and 186 days per year, excluding Active Duty periods.

To apply for the RIRP, a service member must:

  1. Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from the college or university that they wish to attend.
  2. Complete the FAFSA (PELL), and apply for TAP and any other Financial Aid.
  3. Complete the RIRP application in accordance with DMNA Regulation 621-1.
  4. Complete and file the Memorandum of Understanding. (PDF)--OR-- .DOC in accordance with DMNA Reg 621-1
  5. Submit the RIRP application to their military unit full-time representative or appropriate Education Service Representative.

For more information, visit: www.dmna.state.ny.us/education.