CA AB1781

Amends the California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program to require qualifying members to submit a letter from their unit commander for summer session awards stating that enrollment will not adversely impact attendance at mandatory military training.

Maintains existing eligibility requirements including California residency, two years of active service in the California National Guard/State Military Reserve/Naval Militia, and enrollment in at least three academic units per semester.

Caps the number of awards issued annually at 1,000 or the amount authorized in the annual Budget Act, whichever is less.

Directs the Adjutant General to prioritize applicants based on skills most needed by the California National Guard and select recipients based on military occupational specialty, evaluation reports, commander recommendations, commendations, and essays.

Establishes legislative intent to provide student-soldiers with greater flexibility in achieving academic goals through the award program.