How to Apply for College as a Military Vet

I'm a military veteran and I want to apply to college - it's been a while since I was in high school so this application process has me feeling a bit out of my depth. Any advice from other vets who've gone through this?

First and foremost, thank you for your service! Entering college as a military veteran can seem daunting, but there are resources available to assist you through the process.

1. Selecting the Right College: Look for colleges and universities that have programs and resources specifically dedicated to supporting their military and veteran students. This may include things like veteran's clubs or organizations, counseling services, academic assistance, and even specialized housing. It's important to find a school where you will feel supported and understood.

2. Educational Benefits: Be sure to tap into military-related educational benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can provide financial support for tuition, books, housing, and other education-related costs. You may also be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program if you select a private institution or a public out-of-state school.

3. Application Process: Most colleges and universities use the Common Application, although some may have their own independent applications. This will involve submitting personal details, writing a personal statement, and obtaining transcripts. As a veteran, your high school transcripts may be less significant than the experiences and skills you've developed while in the military. Be sure to highlight those skills and experiences in your application and in your essays.

4. Essays: Your experiences as a military veteran can be extremely valuable in your application essays. This is your chance to showcase skills and experiences others might not have, such as leadership, teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving, discipline, and resilience. Additionally, your unique perspective and experience can provide a rich material for a personal story that demonstrates these skills in action.

5. Transcripts: Colleges will want to see your Joint Services Transcript (JST), which documents your military occupational experience and training history, and translates these experiences into college credits. These could reduce the number of courses you have to take and potentially save you time and money.

6. Recommendation Letters: Unlike typical applicants who would use high school teachers for recommendation letters, you can ask for recommendations from military officers, non-commissioned officers, or civilian supervisors who know you and your qualities well.

7. Additional Testing: For some institutions, SAT or ACT scores may not be required, especially for non-traditional students. It's worth checking your prospective institution's policy.

8. Campus Visit: If possible, visit campus before you apply. It's the best way to get a feel for the campus and its culture.

9. Admissions Interviews: An admissions interview is another chance to elaborate on your military experiences and their relevance to your goals for higher education. It's also an opportunity to show your interest in the institution and ask more specific questions.

In closing, make sure to start the application process early to ensure there's sufficient time to gather all necessary information and reduce stress. The process takes some work, but remember that there are many resources available to help you, not the least of which are the veterans' services offices at the colleges you're considering. It may be worth reaching out to them as part of your research. Best of luck with your college journey!