Hey everyone, I just finished my basic training in the military and I'm getting back on track with college. Does anyone have a ballpark estimate of how many college credits I could potentially earn from my military service? Any advice on where to start is appreciated too!
It's wonderful to see you balancing your military service with higher education! In terms of translating military training into college credits, the number can certainly differ depending largely on the specific military role you were in and the training it entailed, as well as the policies of the specific college you're considering.
The American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations can be a helpful starting point. ACE works with the Department of Defense (DoD) to review military training and experiences and recommends equivalent college credits for those. You can look into your Military Guide online to view the ACE's transcript of your experience and the recommended credits.
Once you've landed on a college, you will have to share this guide with their admissions or registrar's office for an official evaluation. Some colleges will have generous policies and offer equivalent courses for a large chunk of your military training, and others may offer fewer credits or even restrict them to 'general electives' — credits that don't necessarily count toward your major or general education requirements.
Alongside credits for military training, some universities also recognize and offer credit for examinations like CLEP (College Level Examination Program) and DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) which are often used by military personnel for college credit.
It's a somewhat complex process and varies from college to college, but it's not impossible. Best wishes as you navigate this process!
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