Hello! I've heard about some assistance programs that military colleges provide to their students, but I'm a bit fuzzy on what they're called and what they offer. Could anyone here shed some light on this? Your inputs would be greatly appreciated!
Sure, happy to help out here! It sounds like you might be thinking of ROTC programs and service academies.
ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) programs can be found at many colleges across the U.S. With ROTC, you receive a scholarship that covers your tuition in exchange for a commitment to serve in the military after you graduate. The three different types of ROTC are Army, Navy (which also includes the Marine Corps), and Air Force.
On the other hand, service academies are federally funded military colleges. The United States has five service academies: the United States Military Academy (West Point), United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy, and the United States Merchant Marine Academy. These academies are extremely selective, but if you're accepted, your entire college education, including room and board, is covered. Just like with ROTC, there’s an obligation to serve in the military upon graduation.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is another notable assistance program that helps veterans pay for college. If you've served on active duty for at least 90 days, you could be eligible for this benefit, which may cover up to the full cost of in-state tuition and fees.
Finally, the Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. It allows colleges and universities to enter into an agreement with the VA to pay tuition expenses that exceed the annual maximum limit for the GI Bill.
I hope this has provided you some insight into the military assistance programs available!
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