Understanding enlisted military tuition reimbursement benefits

I heard the military offers tuition reimbursement, and I'm curious if this applies to enlisted members. How does this benefit work, and what should I know before deciding on enlisting or attending college first?

The U.S. military indeed offers enlisted members generous tuition assistance and reimbursement packages as part of their benefits. One widely known program is the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which covers full tuition and fees at public in-state schools and up to $26,042.81 per academic year at private or foreign schools for up to 36 months of education benefits. Also, it provides a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.

Besides the GI Bill, there is also the Tuition Assistance program, which pays up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. Courses and degree programs may be academic or technical and can be taken from two-year or four-year institutions on-base, off-base, or by correspondence. These benefits extend to online degree programs as well.

The trade-off here, however, is that these benefits often require a certain term of service and only come into play after you've completed your initial military training. Also, there could be limitations on when and how often you can utilize these benefits, depending on your service status, duty commitments, and the specific policies of the branch you're serving.

Before you decide, consider not only the financial aspects but also your career goals, personal circumstances, and how serving in the military can contribute to your long-term aspirations. You could serve in the military before college, gaining life experience, leadership skills, and possibly a clearer idea of what you want to study. On the other hand, attending college first could offer a wider array of opportunities in the military, especially in leadership roles.

Regardless of the path you choose, remember that both pursuits are significant commitments. It's vital to weigh your options carefully and seek advice from those who have experienced the path you're considering, like veterans or college graduates who enlisted.