Does joining the military help pay off college debt?

I heard that the military can pay off your college debt, but I'm not sure how that works. What options are available and what are the requirements? I feel kinda lost. Thanks.

Yes, joining the military can indeed help with paying off college debt through various programs. One such program is the Post-9/11 GI Bill that provides up to 36 months of education benefits. If eligible, service members can receive tuition payments that go directly to the school, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for textbooks and supplies. Your eligibility for the Post-9/11 GI Bill depends on your length of service, but even service members with as little as 90 days of service may be eligible for some benefits.

Moreover, each branch of the military has its own Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP). In exchange for a set term of service, the military will repay a certain percentage of your loans. For instance, the Army's CLRP program offers to repay up to $65,000 of student loan debt for eligible individuals. Eligibility usually requires that the loans are federally insured and not in default.

Similarly, the National Guard has its own Student Loan Repayment Program which can offer up to $50,000 in student loan repayment assistance.

Another program to look into is the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. After 120 qualifying monthly payments, the remaining balance on your loans is forgiven if you work full-time for a qualifying employer, which includes military service.

Remember that each of these programs comes with its own set of qualifications and obligations, and some require that you serve for a certain number of years to be eligible. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly research and understand these requirements before making any decisions. Speaking with a military recruiter may provide further clarity.