Having the military pay for college

I've heard that the military can actually help cover my college tuition. Does anyone have any insight into this? How does the process work and can I choose any major or are there specific courses I'd have to take?

Yes, you're right! The military does have programs in place to assist with college tuition. One of the most well-known opportunities is through the G.I. Bill. The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, for example, pays full tuition and fees for an in-state student at a public school, and typically provides around $28,937 per academic year for a private or foreign school. It offers a monthly housing allowance and stipend for textbooks & supplies. You're eligible if you've served on active duty for at least 90 days after Sept.10, 2001, whether you're still in the military or have been honorably discharged.

If you're serving currently, you may also be entitled to use Tuition Assistance, which pays for tuition and fees for courses taken during your off-duty time. This provides up to $250 per semester credit hour, with an annual cap of $4,500. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, obligated service, application processes and restrictions. The military also offers the ROTC scholarships to high school students planning on attending a four-year college. These scholarships can cover the cost of tuition, up to a certain amount annually.

To answer your other question, as a rule, you're usually free to choose your own major or course of study. However, if you're in certain specialized programs, such as the ROTC scholarship program, you might have to choose a major the military deems to be in high demand.

Remember, each branch of the military has different offerings, which have specific eligibility requirements and offer different benefits, so it's essential to explore options within each one and consider how they might align with your career goals and personal situation. You might want to reach out to a military recruiter or a guidance counselor to discuss your options.