Military College and Debt Forgiveness

Hey, it's me stressing out over future college debt. I've heard that military service can lead to student debt forgiveness who sign up after college. Does this also apply for those who attend a military college, or is there a separate program for that?

Both scenarios you described offer paths to help manage student debt, but they're different.

For those attending a civilian college and then joining the military, student loan forgiveness programs are a common incentive. Various branches of the military have programs that can assist with paying back federal student loans. These programs usually incur a service obligation, and the details and benefits can vary, so research and a discussion with a military recruiter can be beneficial.

As for those attending a military college, these institutions typically provide free education in exchange for a service obligation following graduation. For instance, students who attend one of the U.S. service academies like the U.S. Naval Academy or the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, receive a free education including room and board, medical and dental care, and a monthly cadet stipend for personal expenses. Upon graduation, cadets are commissioned as officers and serve a mandatory service obligation of five years, though the exact length can depend on the individual service branch and career field.

Therefore, if you're considering a military college, a significant perk is graduating with a degree and no student debt, all in exchange for a service commitment. If you decide to pursue college first and then join the military, there are loan repayment and forgiveness programs available.

In both cases, it's important to thoroughly understand the commitment you're making. A military service obligation is a serious commitment that goes beyond simply paying for education. It’s a life decision that should be considered carefully. That's why it's suggested to meet with a military recruiter or liaison officer to talk over these options. They can provide you with detailed information about what that commitment would entail.