Does California offer college discounts for active duty military?

I'm currently an active duty servicemember, planning to pursue college in California while serving. Does anyone know if there's a tuition discount or any benefits available to active duty military? If so, what does the application process look like?

Absolutely, California does provide tuition assistance for active duty military personnel. One of the key initiatives include the "California College Fee Waiver" program that absolves the tuition fees for eligible dependents of veterans at any State of California Community Colleges, California State University, or University of California campus.

For active duty personnel specifically, some colleges offer discounted rates. For example, National University, which is a veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit, offers a reduced tuition rate for military personnel. The tuition rate for undergraduate courses is currently $250 per quarter unit, with no cost for textbooks or software.

You generally apply for these benefits by contacting the veteran or military services department at your chosen institution. They can walk you through the process, which will likely involve providing proof of your military status (typically a copy of your orders or a letter from your commanding officer).

It's also important to keep in mind the G.I. Bill, which can provide financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service after September 10, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. The Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover the full cost of in-state tuition at public colleges or up to $26,042.81 per academic year at private or foreign schools.

Eligible active duty members can also transfer their G.I. Bill benefits to a dependent. The transfer must be approved while still serving and cannot be done after separating.

As it's such a detailed process and varies significantly among institutions, my advice would be to reach out directly to the financial aid office or equivalent department at your chosen college. They can provide the most accurate and current information for their specific institution, taking into account your particular circumstances.