So I just got discharged from the military and I've been thinking about going to college. How does a military discharge affect college admission? Are there any specific procedures I should be aware of?
Your experiences in the military can be quite valuable in your college application, demonstrating mature aspects of leadership, teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Therefore, a military discharge doesn't negatively affect your chances of admission, but instead, can provide you with unique personal insights and experiences to include in your application.
There are some procedures and resources you should be aware of. One such resource is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This provides eligible service members and their dependents with tuition benefits, a housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. To utilize these benefits, you should apply online through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Also, you'll need to follow the standard application process for the schools you're interested in. This usually includes submitting your high school transcript or GED, standardized test scores (if required by the school or if they help your application), an application form (Common App, Coalition App, etc.), and personal statements or essays. You might actually find the essay portion to be advantageous, as your military experience may provide you with unique stories that can set your application apart.
Lastly, remember to ask schools about their credit policies for military training. Some colleges may give academic credit for the training and experiences you had while in service based on your Joint Services Transcript.
Good luck with your transition and college application process!
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