How different is applying to college after serving in the military?

Hey guys, I'm currently serving in the military but considering attending college once my service ends. Any of you have experience applying to college after your military service? How was the experience different from typical high school to college transition? Any tips would be greatly helpful.

Firstly, thank you for your service. Applying to college after military service is somewhat different than the usual high school to college transition. Here are some key differences:

1. College Credit for Service: Many universities offer credit for training or work experience received during military service. Be sure to look into how colleges evaluate those credits, as this may influence your decision in choosing a school. You can use the ACE Military Guide to get an idea of how your military training might be counted for academic credit.

2. Application Timeline: Unlike high school students who apply during their senior year for admission the following year, as a military veteran, you'll likely deal with a different timeline. You should consider when you expect your service to end and aim to start the application process at least a year in advance. This gives you enough time to gather your materials, especially if you're planning to apply to multiple schools.

3. Essay Topics: While most high school students struggle to find compelling anecdotes for their college essays, your experience in the military may provide unique perspectives and stories. You can consider writing about how your military service has shaped your personal and professional growth.

4. Financial Aid: Military veterans are eligible for financial aid benefits that the typical high school student isn't. Look into the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you haven't already, which could cover your full tuition and fees if you've served for at least 36 months. There's also the Yellow Ribbon Program for attending private schools or out-of-state public schools.

5. Veteran Services: Many colleges have veteran services offices that can help you with the application and admissions process, and answer questions related to your GI Bill benefits. They can also provide resources once you are admitted, such as a veterans student organization or mental health services.

As for tips, don't hesitate to reach out to the College Admissions offices at the universities you're interested in. They can provide guidance specific to their institution. Additionally, it can be beneficial to connect with Veterans organizations who have experience with the college admissions process. They can provide advice, mentorship, and often have resources to help you navigate your college journey.

I'd also recommend considering what career path you'd like to pursue after college as this could determine which programs or schools would be the better fit for you.