Hey all, got a question that's been bugging me lately. I'm looking to join the military once I finish high school but I also want to go to college. Can I balance being in the military and going to college at the same time? I'm not exactly sure how it all works so any suggestions or advice would be cool.
Absolutely, pursuing a college education while in the military is very feasible. While it requires careful planning and good time management skills, thousands of active duty service members earn college degrees each year.
There are essentially two main options to go to college while in the military.The first is through online or distance education. Many accredited universities offer online degree programs. This would allow you to study at your own pace and in your own time – a crucial aspect when balancing military duties.
The other option is through programs designed specifically for military personnel. For example, the Army's Concurrent Admissions Program (ConAP) is a partnership between the Army Recruiting Command and over1,900 participating colleges to simultaneously admit enlisted soldiers into college.On top of these, the military also offers a variety of educational benefits that can help cover the cost of tuition, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Tuition Assistance Program. The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers up to100% of tuition and fees, provides a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for textbooks and supplies. Meanwhile, the Tuition Assistance Program covers up to100% of tuition fees not to exceed certain dollar amounts per semester hour, depending on the branch of service.Remember, balancing military service and college will require commitment and flexibility. However, with the support the military offers its service members regarding education, it's certainly possible.
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