Can Military MOS be converted to college credits?

I'm considering pursuing higher education after my service, my concern is about if my Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) can be converted into college credits? If it's doable, how does the process work?

Yes, your military experience, including your Military Occupation Specialty (MOS), can often be converted into college credits. Each institution, however, will have its own policies and practices when it comes to granting these credits.

The first step is to request your Joint Services Transcript (JST). This transcript includes the college-equivalent credits recommended by the American Council on Education (ACE), and it can be sent to your prospective college or university for review.

Upon receiving your JST, the admissions office or registrar's office will determine how your military experiences and trainings correspond to their course offerings. The number of credits they grant you can vary significantly depending on the institution and your specific MOS.

It is also crucial to understand that not all credits may apply directly to your degree program — some might be considered elective credits rather than core credits for your major of choice. Even so, these credits can still reduce the overall course load and time to graduation.

To get a sense of what credits you could potentially receive, you can visit the ACE Military Guide, which gives credit recommendations for formal courses and occupations offered by all branches of the military.

Remember, the ultimate decision of credit award lies with the academic institution. I recommend connecting with a school advisor or the admissions office to understand their policy regarding transfer of military training and experience to college credits.