Military programs that cover college tuition?

I heard a senior talking about how his military service would help him pay for college. Can anyone explain to me how this works? Are there specific programs or schemes that the military provides to cover tuition fees?

Yes, the U.S. military offers several programs that can help service members pay for college. Here's a rundown of some of the major ones:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible service members and veterans, including tuition fees, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual stipend for textbooks. Individuals are eligible if they have at least 90 days of service after September 10, 2001, or served at least 30 continuous days and were discharged due to a service-related disability.

2. Montgomery GI Bill: Under this program, service members contribute $100 per month for 12 months and, in return, they receive a monthly allowance for up to 36 months while attending school.

3. Tuition Assistance Program: This provides up to $4,500 per fiscal year for tuition and fees related to high school completion, vocational training, or higher education to eligible service members.

4. College Loan Repayment Program: Certain branches may offer to repay a portion of a service member's eligible student loans. The details depend on the specific branch and may depend on certain qualifications such as job specialty or enlistment length.

5. ROTC Scholarships: The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) offers scholarships that cover a portion or the full amount of tuition fees. These scholarships are usually awarded based on merit and not financial need.

Remember, eligibility for each program varies. It's important to explore each option and consult with a military recruiter or a school's financial aid office to understand the best options based on individual circumstances.