So, I'm considering a path that leads through college and then into the military. Is there a significant difference in salary for those with a college degree? If I do invest my time and money in getting a degree, will it pay off in the military?
The military uses a pay scale that takes both rank and time in service into account, so yes, having a degree can indeed impact your salary in the military, primarily because it can potentially allow you to start at a higher rank.
Most enlisted personnel start at the rank of E-1, but with a 4-year college degree, you could potentially begin your military career as an officer, at the O-1 level. The difference in basic pay between an E-1 and an O-1 is significant: as of 2024, an E-1 makes a base pay of about $20,797 per year, while an O-1 makes a base pay of about $39,445 per year.
In addition to basic pay, there are many other forms of compensation in the military, including allowances for housing and subsistence, as well as incentive pay for certain types of duty or skills. These can add a considerable amount to your take-home pay, and some allowances are not subject to federal or state taxes.
It's also worth noting that officers generally have more opportunities for professional growth and advancement compared to enlisted personnel, so over the long term, the financial benefits of being an officer can be substantial.
However, bear in mind that joining the military as an officer requires more than just a degree. You must also complete an officer training program, such as Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), Officer Candidate School (OCS), or a service academy, and meet other criteria such as physical fitness requirements and leadership potential.
So, while a college degree certainly has financial benefits in a military career, it's important to consider the overall picture. As with any career decision, it's key to weigh the pros and cons, and ensure that the path you're considering aligns with your personal and professional goals.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.