Hi everyone, I'm considering joining the military but don't want to give up my college education. Are there any programs that let you do both? Appreciate your help.
Absolutely, there are certainly ways you can still earn a college degree while serving in the military. Here are a few programs you might want to consider:
1. The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC): This is one of the most popular programs and is offered at many colleges across the country. The Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Space Force (in conjunction with Air Force) each have their own ROTC programs. ROTC students participate in military training during college but have a full-time commitment to serve in the military post-graduation. In exchange, they get scholarships that can cover a significant amount or even all of their college expenses.
2. Service Academies: This includes the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. These are four-year federal service academies that offer a full scholarship in exchange for a service obligation after graduation.
3. Military Colleges: These institutions, like Virginia Military Institute or The Citadel, also provide military training while you pursue your degree. While not as binding as ROTC or the service academies, they sometimes have some form of post-graduate service requirement.
4. The Military Tuition Assistance Program: This program is for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members. It can pay up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less.
5. The G.I. Bill: It covers a considerable portion of your tuition fees and provides a housing stipend. To be eligible, you generally need to serve for a minimum period of time and obtain an honorable discharge.
Keep in mind that while these programs allow you to pair military service with a college education, they do commit you to serving in the military after graduation, so it's not a decision to make lightly. It's recommended to thoroughly research each option and probably speak to a military recruiter or advisor to get all your questions answered.
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