Military Funding for College Education

Salutations. I'm planning on enlisting soon and I've heard rumors about the military helping with college tuition. How does this work and what are the requirements to get the military to pay for some or all of my college education?

Hello! Those rumors are correct, the military does offer a variety of programs that can help cover the cost of a college education. Here are the main ones:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is one of the best-known programs that can help pay for college. This Bill can provide up to 36 months of education benefits. Full benefits are provided to those who have completed at least three years of active-duty service, or were discharged with a disability related to their service.

2. Montgomery GI Bill: This program provides up to 36 months of education benefits to those who have served for at least two years. It can be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, apprenticeships, and more.

3. Tuition Assistance: This can cover up to 100% of tuition and fees for active-duty service members. Each branch of the military has slightly different policies, so it would be useful for you to talk to an Education Services Officer.

4. ROTC scholarships: The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) offers scholarships that pay for almost all tuition and fees at colleges and universities. You will need to commit to serve in the military for a certain number of years after graduation.

It's important to note that these benefits can vary slightly between branches, and are usually contingent on fulfilling a service agreement. Please connect with a recruiter or the appropriate office within the military branch you are planning to join for the most precise and updated information. They will help guide you through the process of applying for these benefits, and also inform about any other lesser known scholarships or programs that you may qualify for. Good luck with your enlistment and your future education pursuits!