What does the military college reimbursement program look like?

Hello, everyone. I'm eyeing both the military and college, and I'm curious about the military's college reimbursement program. How much does it cover and what are the requirements? Just trying to see if this is a viable option for me. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

The military indeed has several programs that can help pay for college. A primary route many individuals use is the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and the Post-9/11 GI Bill. These are both Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits created to help service members and eligible veterans cover the costs associated with getting an education or training.

The Montgomery GI Bill assists active duty and reservists with the pursuit of higher education degrees, certificates, and other education and training. You might receive up to 36 months of education benefits under this bill, but the benefits generally are payable for 10 years following your release from active duty.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill, on the other hand, is a program for individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001 or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. The benefit provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally benefits are payable for 15 years following your release from active duty, and the program can potentially cover the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public institutions.

To become eligible for these benefits, you will need to have completed a certain term of service. For example, for the maximum benefit under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you would need to serve at least 36 months or, if you were honorably discharged for a service-connected disability, serve at least 30 continuous days.

Moreover, each branch of the military also has its own Tuition Assistance (TA) program, which pays up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. This program covers tuition and fees, not exceeding $4,500 per year. Many service members take advantage of this program while they are still serving in order to work towards a degree or certificate.

It is wise to discuss these programs with a military recruiter or a counselor in the military to understand the full range of educational benefits and to determine which might work best for your circumstances. I hope this helps you out!