What's up, everyone? I'm weighing my options for after high school and considering a path of military, then college. But I've heard rumors that some of your military experiences might help you earn college credit, which sounds awesome. Can anyone give me more info on this?
Hello there! You're correct - military service can potentially earn you college credit. Here's the scoop.
One system that’s used to translate military training into college credit is the Joint Services Transcript (JST). It equates military training with academic courses and assigns equivalent college credits to the training.
The American Council on Education (ACE) reviews military training and experiences and recommends equivalent college credits for those. Many colleges and universities respect these recommendations and offer credits accordingly, though the amount and type of credit will vary from school to school.
Another way to gain college credit is through Credit-by-exam programs like CLEP (College Level Examination Program) and DSST exams. These programs offer a suite of tests in various subjects and generally, if you pass these exams, colleges will grant you credit for that subject.
But remember this, the acceptance of these credits is entirely up to the individual institution. To ensure that the credit transfers, it would be wise to check in advance with the schools you're considering to see how they handle this kind of alternative credit.
Also, the GI Bill provides 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.
In conclusion, yes, you can definitely earn college credit through your military experiences depending on the college or university you attend!
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