One stipend check per year. 1st one about a month after seperation, then around the anniversary of seperation for the remaining 3 years. No tution check, you get voucher to take to your school and school will bill Ford directly. Program info available on myuawford.com along with phone #'s and email addresses to get questions answered and problems resolved. From the time I filled out initial interest paperwork to seperation was about 5 weeks. That was my local, your local affects whether and when you leave. A lot of locals are resisting because it will hurt their financial bottom line and affect their Vegas, Black Lake, D.C., ect. ect. travel/party funds. Good Luck!