Need guidance on Military Assistance for College

Being a military kid, I've been told that there are various ways the military can help with college expenses. I could really use some pointers about how this process works and how soon I should start applying.

You're correct that the military offers several programs to help with college expenses. Here are a few of the prominent ones:

1. Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is one of the most well-known programs and provides education benefits for service members who have served at least 90 days on active duty since September 10, 2001. The program covers all in-state tuition and fees at public colleges and up to approximately $26,000 per year at private and foreign schools. It also provides a housing allowance and money for textbooks and supplies.

2. Montgomery GI Bill: This program provides a monthly stipend for up to 36 months to help cover education costs. The exact amount depends on factors such as length and type of service.

3. Yellow Ribbon Program: This is an extension of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and caters to students attending colleges that are more expensive than what the GI Bill will cover. Institutions voluntarily enter into the Yellow Ribbon agreement with the VA to cover a portion of the tuition expenses, and the VA matches the school's contribution.

As a military child, you may be eligible for benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill through the transferability option if your parent is eligible for it and elects to transfer their benefits to you. They can do this while they are still serving in the military.

In terms of when to apply, you should initiate the application process as early as possible, preferably in the spring prior to the academic year you plan on attending college. This way, you can have the maximum amount of time to gather necessary documentation and to deal with any potential roadblocks that may arise.

Make sure to discuss with your family and with a counselor in your school to better understand these options and see how they can fit into your college planning or financial aid strategy. Remember, while these programs can significantly help in financing your education, they may or may not cover all costs, so consider other avenues like scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to fund any gaps left by these military assistance programs.