Transferring college credits after military service

I've earned some college credits, but I'm thinking about enlisting before I finish my degree. Can I transfer these credits to a university after I serve? Or would joining the military be a setback in completing my education?

Glad to hear you're considering your next steps wisely. The scenario you described is in fact quite common, and plenty of service members successfully transfer their college credits after their military service.

The ability to transfer your credits ultimately depends on the university you'd like to attend after your service, as each institution has its own policies regarding credit transfer. Generally speaking, accredited colleges and universities are more likely to accept credits from other accredited institutions, so as long as the credits you've earned so far are from an accredited institution, there's a good chance that you'll be able to transfer those credits.

Furthermore, the military often provides opportunities for further education and training, some of which can also lead to college credits. These might be accepted by universities as well, although again, it would depend on the specific institution's policies.

One particularly helpful resource could be the Joint Services Transcript (JST) for the Army, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard, or a Community College of the Air Force Transcript (CCAF) which includes a consolidated record of all your military occupational experience and training along with the corresponding American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendations. Many colleges recognize ACE credits and may accept them as part of your transfer credits.

Please remember that once you're ready to apply to universities, it's crucial to ask each school about their policy on transferring credits before you actually apply. This is because university policies can be varied and specific, so you'll want to make sure you have as much information as possible upfront.

Far from being a setback, your military service could be a distinguished part of your application that sets you apart from other candidates. You may also be eligible for benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can cover a substantial portion of your tuition and fees, among other expenses. So combining your existing credits with military benefits and further education, your path to completing your degree might be more efficient than you think!