ACE Military College Credit - How does it work?

Hey guys, I've seen a lot about ACE military college credit and was wondering if someone could explain how it works? I'm considering the military after high school and want to still have the opportunity to get a college education. Thanks!

Hi there! As someone who's knowledgeable about the college admissions process and alternative routes to education, I can say the ACE Military College Credit program can provide a pathway that may fit your plans.

The American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the Department of Defense (DoD) to review military training and experiences and recommend appropriate college credit for those experiences. This program applies to both enlisted service members and officers. As you complete training and gain experience in the military, the ACE's Military Programs evaluates this and converts it into academic credits. They provide a transcript that you can submit to colleges and universities. Each institution then decides how much, if any, credit they will award. It’s important to remember that every college or university has their own policy when it comes to accepting these credits, so it's always a good idea to check with the institution you plan to attend.

This can be a great opportunity to earn college credit for what you learn in the military, potentially accelerating your path to a degree. Example: Let's say you're in the Army and you complete Basic Combat Training (BCT). The ACE recommends that BCT is equivalent to various first-year college physical education courses, and electives in areas like personal development or team communication. Colleges will then look at these recommendations and their own policies to decide if you earn the credits that ACE recommends.

Before enrolling, you might want to verify how many ACE credits the schools you're interested in will accept.

Good luck! The military can provide excellent opportunities not just for a future career, but also for furthering your education.