How to Obtain Military College Transcripts?

Hey there! I have spent some time in the military before deciding to further pursue my college education. Now, in this process, I need my military college transcripts. Any advice on how I can get them? Would appreciate a breakdown of steps or something like that, I'm kinda lost.

Hello! I can understand why the process might feel overwhelming. Don't worry, it's actually simpler than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to obtain your military transcripts:

1. Identifying Your Branch-Specific Transcript Service: To begin, you need to identify the correct transcript service for your military branch. The service can vary depending on whether you were in the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, or Air Force.

2. -For Army, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard: You'll have to use the Joint Services Transcript (JST) system to retrieve your transcripts.

3. -For the Air Force: You will need to use the Community College of Air Force (CCAF) system.

4. Register and Request Transcripts: Visit the respective websites (either the JST or CCAF), and create an account using your personal information - this should include your service number and Social Security Number.

5. After creating your account, there will be options on the webpage to order your transcripts.

6. Transcript Delivery Method: You will likely need to have the transcripts sent directly to the colleges you're applying to, as most colleges require official transcripts that have been delivered directly from the source. So, you'll need the official mailing address or email of your college's admissions office.

7. Submit Transcript Request: Finally, complete the transcript request using the platform, making sure all information entered is accurate. Most transcript services are free, but do double-check in case a fee is mentioned.

It's important to note that military transcripts usually include your American Council on Education (ACE) credit recommendations, which outlines courses that your military schooling and occupations equate to in civilian college terms. This might allow you to potentially bypass some general ed or other course requirements at your new school. However, it will ultimately depend on the college as to how these are applied in the credit transfer.

Remember to be patient, as it might take a few weeks for the transcripts to be processed and sent to your designated institutions. You might also want to keep a personal copy of your transcripts for your own records.

I hope this helps and best of luck with your college applications!