Hello all, my partner is planning on entering the military after graduation and I'm trying to figure out college. What factors should I be considering as a military spouse when choosing a college?
As a military spouse, your college search may look a little different compared to others. A few key factors you could consider include:
1. Flexibility in course delivery: Look for schools or programs with flexible offerings, such as online or night classes. You may need to balance your coursework with unexpected changes relating to your spouse’s service, so high flexibility can be crucial.
2. Transferability of credits: Since military families often have to move, it's important to choose a college with credits that will be widely accepted by other institutions. You may need to transfer your credits to another school at some point, so make sure you check this when researching potential colleges.
3. Military-friendly policies: Some colleges have programs and support services tailored to the needs of military families. Look out for colleges that respect and accommodate the challenges faced by military families, offering resources like on-campus veterans centers, dedicated advisors, or military spouse student organizations.
4. Recognized accreditation: Ensure the college is properly accredited, which means it meets certain standards of quality, and the credits you earn there will be transferable. This is particularly important for online programs - be aware of "diploma mills" that offer questionable degrees.
5. Financial considerations: Look for colleges that offer military benefits. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, for example, offers substantial education support to service members and their spouses. There are also Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) that can provide financial assistance for pursuing degrees and licenses in certain fields.
6. Support services: Look for colleges with robust support services, like academic tutoring, career counseling, or mental health services. The demands of military life can be stressful and having access to support can significantly enhance your college experience.
Remember that every college will have its strengths and weaknesses, so it's essential to align your choice with your unique needs and circumstances. It might be helpful to speak directly with a representative from the college (like an admissions counselor or a financial aid officer) to get detailed answers to any specific questions you might have. They can provide insights into the realities of attending college as a military spouse.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.