Marines and College

Hey everyone, I've been toying with the idea of enlisting in the Marines after high school. But I'm not sure, do most Marines go to college during or after their service?

Marines, like other service members, have the opportunity to go to college either during or after their service, but the timing and path they take can vary based on a number of factors including their occupational specialty, deployment schedule, and personal goals.

Some Marines pursue their education while they're still on active duty. The Marine Corps offers several education programs to help active-duty service members earn a degree. The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), for example, provides financial aid to active-duty members taking courses during their off-duty time. There's also the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) that provides various services such as counseling, testing and more to educate Marines about opportunities for personal and professional growth.

On the other hand, some Marines choose to attend college after they complete their service. The Post 9/11 GI Bill offers significant educational benefits for service members who have served on active duty for 90 or more days after Sept. 10, 2001. This can cover tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual books and supplies stipend for up to 36 months.

Lastly, it's important to note that while these programs make it possible for Marines to pursue a higher education, it does come with several challenges. Timing a course schedule between deployments and military duties can be tricky and requires a level of dedication. Flexibility and determination are key if you wish to balance military service with academic pursuits. But it's certainly not unusual for Marines to earn degrees during or following their service.