Completing College while in the Military: How?

Hi everyone! I'm in the midst of making some big life decisions. Is it possible to do college while you're in the military? Are there specific programs tailored for this?

Absolutely, pursuing higher education while serving in the military is achievable and quite common. The U.S. Military actively encourages servicemembers to continue their education, and there are various programs to help you do so.

To start, many branches of the military offer tuition assistance programs that can cover up to 100% of tuition expenses for college courses taken during your off-duty hours. The exact percentage and amount can vary, so it would be advantageous to check the specifics with your respective branch.

One of the most notable programs is the Military Tuition Assistance (TA) Program, which can cover up to 100% of tuition expenses up to a certain limit per fiscal year. Keep in mind that these programs usually cover tuition fees but may not include things such as textbooks or additional course costs.

You might also want to consider online courses or degree programs, which can offer more flexibility if you're active duty. Many colleges and universities offer online classes, so you can take courses tailored to your own schedule. Many servicemembers find success with this form of flexible learning.

The military also provides programs such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) that allow you to earn college credit for what you already know by earning qualifying scores on these tests.

There's also the GI Bill, which offers educational assistance to servicemembers, veterans, and their dependents. This could help cover tuition, housing, books, and more.

Finally, it might be prudent to reach out to a base education officer if you have one. They can provide guidance tailored to your personal circumstances and academic goals.

In summary, not only is it possible to complete a degree while in the military, there are numerous resources and programs available to help you achieve this goal. It will certainly require strong commitment and excellent time management, but it is undoubtedly within reach.