Understanding Military College Credit Calculator

Hey all. I was browsing around and stumbled upon this term: 'Military College Credit Calculator.' I'm a bit lost. What does it mean and how are they typically used for college planning? Thanks.

Sure, happy to explain this term. A 'Military College Credit Calculator' is a tool that students with military experience can use to determine how many college credits they may be eligible to receive based on their military training and experiences.

In the United States, the American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the Department of Defense (DoD) to translate the skills and knowledge acquired in the military into college credit recommendations. This can potentially reduce the time and cost for service members to earn a college degree.

Here's how it usually works:

1. An individual accesses their Joint Services Transcript (JST), which records all military training and experiences recognized by ACE.

2. They enter this information into the Military College Credit Calculator. The calculator, based on ACE recommendations and each specific college's policies on military transfer credits, will estimate the number of credits that their training/experiences might equate to.

It's important to note that each institution has different policies about accepting military credits. Some schools may accept all credits, while others may only accept a portion, or none at all. It can also depend on the degree program in question - some credits may apply to a certain major or minor but not others.

So, while the calculator can give you a good estimate, you'll always want to check directly with the institutions you're considering to get the most accurate information. Also, do remember that while these credits can help you graduate earlier or take fewer courses, they are likely distributed in elective credits, and you will still need to complete your major's requirements.