I heard the military helps with college expenses?

Okay, so I was chatting with some friends who mentioned that the military could help pay for my college education. I'm intrigued but not entirely sure how it works. Can someone please break it down for me?

Absolutely, the military does indeed have programs that can assist with college expenses. Essentially, these benefits form part of the incentive to join and serve. Let's discuss a few:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is perhaps the most well-known educational benefit offered by the military. It provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible veterans and service members for programs such as undergraduate and graduate degree programs, vocational/technical training, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and more. If you have served on active duty for 90 days or more since Sept.10, 2001, you are eligible.

2. Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): This program offers two types of assistance, MGIB-Active Duty (AD) and MGIB-Selected Reserve (SR). Both provide up to 36 months of education benefits that can be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, and apprenticeship/on-the-job training.

3. ROTC Scholarships: The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship program provides funding for college in exchange for a commitment to serve in the military after graduation. The Army, Navy, and Air Force each have their ROTC programs.

4. Military Spouse and Family Benefits: The military also offers education benefits for military spouses and dependents, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill transfer, Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA), and scholarships offered by each branch for dependents.

5. Service Branch College Funds: Each military branch has college funds that are given in combination with the Montgomery GI Bill, which can cover a significant portion of your tuition.

6. Tuition Assistance: Each service branch has its own tuition assistance program that pays up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. Typically, you are eligible for these benefits after serving for a certain period. Do check with your service branch for more specific information.

Remember that the specifics of each benefit may vary, and some do require a service commitment. It's recommended that you reach out to a military recruiter or a counselor from the education office at a base near you to get the most accurate and in-depth information. They can guide you on the most advantageous plan for your educational goals and service plans. Remember, these benefits are a significant part of your compensation for service, and therefore, it's important to understand and properly use them.