Free college from military service, fact or myth?

So, I've heard rumors that military service could lead to free college education. I'm a junior and considering my options. Could someone shed some light on this?

Yes, military service can indeed lead to financial assistance for college education. This is not a myth.

One of the most notable ways this happens is through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible service members and veterans. These benefits can cover full tuition and fees at public in-state schools, and for private or international schools, it pays up to the national maximum, which varies each year. When expenses aren't fully covered, you can look up the Yellow Ribbon Program, which some schools participate in to cover the remaining expenses.

Moreover, the Post-9/11 GI Bill also provides a monthly housing allowance and an annual stipend for books and supplies. You can use these benefits for undergraduate, graduate, and some professional degrees, and the benefits can be transferred to dependents under certain circumstances.

There's also the Montgomery GI Bill for active duty soldiers and reservists, which provides a direct monthly stipend to students rather than paying the tuition to the school. The Montgomery GI prefers to award sums monthly, and it's the recipient's responsibility to pay for tuition and other charges.

Remember that the use of these benefits often requires a minimum period of service and may also be contingent on an honorable discharge status.

However, it's always advisable to speak directly to military recruiters or educational service officers as they have the most accurate and up-to-date information on the benefits available and the specific eligibility criteria.