Eligibility for the GI Bill Kicker in the Military

I'm looking into military jobs after high school and heard about the GI Bill Kicker. Can someone break down which positions or qualifications might make me eligible for this kind of educational benefit?

Sure, happy to provide some information on the GI Bill Kicker! Also known officially as the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps College Funds, these programs are designed to supplement the Montgomery GI Bill or the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Eligibility tends to vary broadly, depending largely on branch, occupational specialty, how long you serve, and when you enlisted. In general, the services where you can be eligible for the Kicker include the Army, Army Reserve, Navy, Navy Reserve, Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve.

The GI Bill Kicker comes in the form of an increased monthly benefit added to your existing GI Bill benefits. Normally, you would have signed up at the time of your enlistment if you're going the active duty route, or anytime during membership for Reservists and Guard members. It's specified in the enlistment contract, usually involving a six-year obligation.

However, individuals who can apply may be limited. It targets specific MOSs (Military Occupational Specialties) where each branch sees a need for manpower. That being so, the availability for MOSs offering the kicker can change as the needs of the service change. You're mostly likely to be offered it when you're enlisting in a job that's undermanned, or when you're in a critical field.

The GI Bill Kicker is a great opportunity if it's available to you, but it's crucial to double check all details in your enlistment or re-enlistment contracts and keep a copy for your records. Reviewing these stipulations with a recruiter can help you fully understand how to maximize this benefit.