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DoDEA Schools for Military-Connected Children

Benefit overview

Because military families move frequently, finding the right school for your child is a crucial way to ease the transition. Department of Defense Education Activity, or DoDEA, schools provide outstanding education for children of service members and War Department civilians, from pre-K through high school.

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How this benefit helps

If you’re considering a DoDEA school for the first time or you’re wondering if it’s the right choice for your children, consider what these schools have to offer:

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Teachers who understand MilLife

Teachers, administrators and staff are trained to recognize the needs of military-connected students and their challenges, including frequent moves, transitions and separations from parents.

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Highly ranked education

DoDEA schools are ranked well above the national average in standardized test scores.

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Parent-teacher communication from any location

The web-based GradeSpeed program allows you to email with your child’s teachers and check grades and attendance from anywhere you’re stationed. You can also access your child’s academic records online.

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Continuity of education

Eligible high school students can take classes online with DoDEA Virtual School, including during transitions to a new school, to support continuity of education. Advanced Placement classes are offered either in person or online.

Where can you find DoDEA schools?

There are currently 160 schools in 12 foreign countries, seven states, Guam and Puerto Rico. Schools are organized into three geographic regions:

  • Americas
  • Pacific
  • Europe

Visit the DoDEA website and use the “Find Your School” search tool to get a list of school districts in your region. Explore the search results to learn more about individual schools and check out details on school policies.

Is your child eligible to attend a DoDEA school?

Find out if your child qualifies to attend a DoDEA school, whether you’re in the U.S. or overseas.

Students are eligible for tuition-free enrollment if they are:

  • In grades pre-K through 12
  • Dependent children of service members living in permanent housing on base
  • Children of federal government civilians living in permanent housing on base

Children of service members or federal government civilians living off base can be accepted if space and resources allow.

Students are eligible for tuition-free enrollment if they are:

  • In grades pre-K through 12
  • Command-sponsored children of service members
  • Command-sponsored children of DOW civilians

Children may qualify on a tuition-paying basis if space is available:

  • Children of defense contractors whose contract allows for the education of dependent children in DOD schools
  • Children of non-DOD federal employees
  • Children of foreign national military members serving on the installation

To confirm whether your child qualifies for enrollment, visit the DoDEA website for eligibility and enrollment information.

If you’re overseas without access to a DoDEA school

In these cases, the DOW supports students through the Non-DOW Schools Program. Your options include:

  • Homeschool
  • Private school
  • Public school

You must register and receive approval from the Non-DOW Schools Program office. Find more information on the Non-DOW Schools Program page.

School liaisons can assist with your child’s school transition

School liaisons are available to help military families navigate education challenges and ensure a smooth transition for their children. They serve as a bridge between families, schools and military commands, offering support with school selection, enrollment, credit transfers, special education needs and deployment-related concerns.

Whether you’re moving, living on or off installation, or stationed overseas, school liaisons can help you understand your options and connect you with the right resources. Find your school liaison.

Learn more about how you can help your child change schools, as well as your children’s education options.

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