How does the military assist with college tuition?

Hey, y'all. High school junior here trying to plan out life after high school. I've heard the military can help cover college costs. Can someone give me a rundown of how that works? What's the application process like and what sort of tuition assistance might I expect if I choose to serve and then attend college?

The military does indeed offer several programs that can assist with college tuition in exchange for service. These programs vary depending on the branch of the military you join, but here are some common ones:

1. Montgomery GI Bill: This provides education benefits for service members and veterans, and the benefits can be used during service or after discharge. The exact amount of the benefit depends on the length and nature of your service, but it often goes toward tuition, educational fees, books, and even housing in some cases.

2. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is another program that provides education benefits based on the length of your service. It generally covers more than the Montgomery GI Bill, particularly for those who have served for at least three years since September10,2001. Benefits can be transferred to dependents under certain conditions.

3. ROTC Scholarships: The military services each maintain a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program that offers scholarships to high school and college students. In return, recipients commit to a specified period of active duty as a commissioned officer.

4. Tuition Assistance: You may also be eligible for tuition assistance while serving in the military. This program pays up to100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. Courses and degree programs may be academic or technical and can be taken from two- or four-year institutions, on or off base.

5. Service Academies: Our military service academies provide a four-year collegiate education similar to what you might receive at an Ivy League institution, but your tuition, room, and board are all paid for by the United States government.

To access these benefits, you'll generally need to speak to a military recruiter and enlist or apply to one of the service academies or ROTC programs. If you've already served, you would apply through the Veterans Affairs office.

Remember, while these benefits can significantly defray the cost of a college education, a commitment to military service is a serious decision and should not be taken lightly. Be sure to carefully consider both the benefits and obligations and speak to a guidance counselor or an experienced military service member to better understand if this path is right for you.