Military paying for College

I've heard that the military can help me pay for college, and I'm seriously considering it. What's the process like? Will they pay for all types of schools or only specific ones?

Many military programs offer education benefits to help service members pay for college. The Armed Forces provide several programs such as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), Post-9/11 GI Bill, and Tuition Assistance (TA) that provide funding for tuition, fees, housing, and books to those who serve.

The process varies based on the specific program. For most programs, you have to serve for a certain period to qualify for these benefits. For instance, to be eligible for MGIB, you generally need to serve at least two years on active duty. The Post-9/11 GI Bill requires at least 90 days of aggregate service after September 10, 2001, or discharge with a service-connected disability after 30 days.

Regarding the types of institutions, the military tuition benefits are quite versatile. They can be used at both two- and four-year institutions, vocational or technical schools, correspondence schools, apprenticeship/job training, and flight schools. However, the school must be accredited, and it's still important to confirm upfront if your intended school accepts these benefits.It's also crucial to mention that while these benefits are substantial, they might not cover all your tuition and fees, especially at more expensive private colleges. So, you may still need to seek out other financial aid resources.

Finally, keep in mind that joining the military is a significant commitment. So, consulting with a military recruiter and discussing your plans with a school counselor could help you make an informed decision.