Admission Process for Military Veterans

Hi there, I'm a bit stressed. As a military veteran, I'm really considering getting a higher education now, but the whole process feels a bit overwhelming. Can anyone walk me through what the college application process is like for military veterans?

Sure, I'd be happy to walk you through it!

Firstly, do some research on which colleges you're interested in. Some schools have strong commitments to veterans and offer specific resources and services to support them. When considering a school, you may want to look into whether they participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill that can help cover the extra costs of tuition that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn't cover.

Next, gather your materials for the application. While it can vary from college to college, the basics usually include transcripts, an application form (you can apply through the Common App, which is used by many institutions), and application essays. For veterans, many colleges will also want to see your military transcripts. The Joint Services Transcript (JST) provides a description of military schooling and work history in civilian language, helpful for colleges to understand your experiences.

For your essays, remember to showcase how your military experience has shaped you as a person. Veterans often have unique experiences that can provide a different perspective, which can be advantageous!

A unique aspect for veterans is the option of applying for college credits for the training and experience you received while in the military. This varies significantly among institutions, so you will want to check with the specific colleges you are applying to for their policies.

If you're using benefits under the GI Bill, make sure you understand the application progress for those benefits too. You can apply for benefits online through the Veterans Administration.

Lastly, as a non-traditional student, I advise getting in touch with the colleges' admissions office directly, as they can often provide guidance tailored to your unique situation and answer any specific queries you may have.

Going through the college application process can be daunting for anyone, let alone someone transitioning from military to civilian life. Just take it step by step, reach out for help when needed, and know that your service and experience are valuable and respected. Good luck!