Military Pay for College: Specifics?

Hey everyone! I need some specific info. If I were to join the military after high school, how much do they actually pay for your college? Does it cover everything, only tuition, or are there stipulations?

Sure, I can provide some details about the education benefits offered by the military. The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill is the main program that comes to mind. It offers to pay up to the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public colleges for up to 36 months (four academic years). But, the exact benefit amount varies based on how long you've served active duty after September 10, 2001, with maximum benefits reached after 36 months of service.

This Bill also offers a living stipend that's based on the cost of living in the area where you're attending school, up to a certain maximum, as well as a yearly books-and-supplies stipend of $1,000.

For private and foreign colleges, the Bill pays up to $26,042.81 per academic year. However, some schools participate in the "Yellow Ribbon Program," which can make additional funds available for tuition and fee expenses that exceed the amounts payable under the bill.

On the other hand, the military also offers tuition assistance while serving. This typically covers up to 100% of tuition expenses for college courses taken during off-duty hours, but there are caps per semester hour, an annual cap, and a lifetime limit.

It's important to investigate specific programs and branches of the military for more specific benefits and stipulations. You should always make sure you understand what you're agreeing to, as military service contracts often require set terms of active duty service and/or years in the reserve.