Hello, I'm in my junior year, and the thought of paying for college is starting to stress me out a bit. I've been exploring the option of joining a military reserve to help cover costs. Any college students out there who've gone this route that can recommend the best branch to join?
Hi there,
the military reserve can indeed be a great way to help pay for college, get some valuable life and work experience, and serve your country. Each branch of the military reserve has different roles, environments, and benefits, so the best one for you really depends on your goals, preferences, and abilities.
The Army National Guard offers the Montgomery GI Bill, the Post 9/11 GI Bill, and the Army National Guard Kicker to help pay for your education, as well as offering tuition assistance. Members of the Army Reserve can also qualify for the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships. These benefits, combined with the wide variety of roles and possibility for travel, make it an attractive option.
The Air Force Reserve also provides tuition assistance, and the Post 9/11 GI Bill for education. They have a Community College of the Air Force program, which provides a pathway towards an associate's degree with them, and is available to reservists.
The Navy Reserve offers tuition assistance and the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Sailors who agree to serve 6 years as a Reserve Sailor are guaranteed a free education benefit through MGIB-SR.
The Marine Corps Reserve also offers tuition assistance and the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Lastly, the Coast Guard Reserve offers tuition assistance up to a certain amount per fiscal year, the Post 9/11 GI Bill for education, and a College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI). As a CSPI scholar, you’ll become an active-duty Coast Guard member with the rank of Officer Trainee and receive the military benefits of the E-3 pay grade, including salary and healthcare. You’ll be assigned to your university, where you’ll complete your degree as a full-time student with tuition, books, and fees paid annually.
Remember that these benefits can change and may depend on your specific situation and role, so do your due diligence and research each one thoroughly. The "best" branch for you would be one that aligns most with your career goals and interests, as well as the lifestyle and commitments you're willing to make. Best of luck on your journey!
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