Sup guys, heard that you can get college credit for military service through something called ACE credits. Can anyone help me understand how this works? Any help you could give would be fantastic!
Hey! You're correct. The American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the U.S. Department of Defense to review military training and experiences and recommend corresponding college credit. It's called the ACE Military Guide.Here's a bit of how it works: ACE evaluates military training, coursework, and occupational experiences, then recommends the number of college credits that should be awarded for these experiences. For example, if you attended a leadership course in the military that involved extensive instruction and practical exercises, ACE might recommend that you be awarded credits in leadership studies.Not all colleges automatically accept ACE recommendations though. Each college or university has its own policy on accepting ACE credits. Some schools may award credit based on ACE guidelines, while others may award credit on a case-by-case basis, requiring a review of your Joint Services Transcript (JST).
Your JST is an official transcript tool that validates your military occupational experience and training along with the corresponding ACE college credit recommendations. Remember that it's your responsibility to request your JST and submit it to the colleges you're applying to. Also, keep in mind that credits awarded for military training and experience could apply to elective credits, general education requirements, or specific course requirements, depending on the school's policy.
In addition, it's also possible to earn college credit by excelling on exams like the CLEP (College Level Examination Program) and DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests), which many service members take advantage of.
Just remember to talk with the admissions office or a military liaison at the college where you are considering enrolling to understand their specific policies around ACE credits and transfer credits overall. That'll help ensure you get the most out of your military training and experiences. You've earned it!
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions!
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