College Credits for Military Service - What's the Deal?

Hey, quick question. So, I've been researching different options after high school and came across this - it's possible to earn college credits from military service? How does this work exactly? Do all branches offer this or does it vary based on different factors?

Hello! Yes, it's definitely possible to earn college credits from military service. The way it works is through the Joint Services Transcript (JST), which documents your military occupational experience and training history in an easy-to-read, civilian language format. This education can then be recognized by colleges and universities for college credits.

This scheme applies to all branches of the military including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. It's worth noting that the Air Force issues their own transcript called the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Transcript.

The amount of college credits you can earn from the JST varies. It's dependent on the nature of your training, assignments, and occupational specialty, as well as how these align with the curriculum of the college or university you plan to attend. The American Council on Education (ACE) usually evaluates military training and experiences for appropriateness of college credits, but the final decision lies with each individual institution.

If you're transitioning from military service to college, be sure to send your JST (or equivalent for the Air Force) to the college or university as part of your application process in order to be evaluated for potential credit. Remember though that earning college credit will also vary from school to school based on the institution's policies. It might also depend on your intended field of study.

Hope this answers your question!