Can You Go to School While in the Military?
Serving in the military can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it can also be a significant obstacle to pursuing higher education. Many individuals who join the military may have dreams of advancing their education while still serving their country. The good news is that it is possible to go to school while in the military. In this article, we will explore the options and benefits of pursuing higher education while serving in the military.
Can You Go to School While in the Military?
The short answer is yes, you can go to school while in the military. The military offers various education benefits and programs to help service members pursue their educational goals. These benefits and programs can help you pay for tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.
Types of Education Benefits
The military offers several types of education benefits, including:
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): This program provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible service members. The benefits can be used for degree programs, vocational training, and certification courses.
- Post-9/11 GI Bill: This program provides up to 100% tuition coverage for public colleges and universities, as well as a monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Tuition Assistance (TA): This program provides up to $250 per credit hour for tuition and fees for degree programs, vocational training, and certification courses.
- Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP): This program provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible service members who contributed to the program while on active duty.
Education Benefits for Specific Military Branches
Each military branch offers its own education benefits and programs. Here are some examples:
- Army: The Army offers the Army College Fund, which provides up to $65,000 in education benefits to eligible service members.
- Navy: The Navy offers the Navy College Fund, which provides up to $50,000 in education benefits to eligible service members.
- Air Force: The Air Force offers the Air Force College Fund, which provides up to $50,000 in education benefits to eligible service members.
- Marines: The Marines offer the Marine Corps College Fund, which provides up to $50,000 in education benefits to eligible service members.
How to Apply for Education Benefits
To apply for education benefits, you will need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements: Check with your military branch to see if you meet the eligibility requirements for education benefits.
- Step 2: Complete the Application: Complete the application for the education benefit you are interested in. You can find the application on the military branch’s website or through the Veterans Affairs website.
- Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents: Submit supporting documents, such as your DD Form 214 (discharge paperwork) and transcripts.
- Step 4: Wait for Approval: Wait for approval from the military branch or Veterans Affairs.
Challenges of Pursuing Higher Education While in the Military
While pursuing higher education while in the military can be challenging, there are several benefits to consider:
- Flexibility: Many education programs offer flexible scheduling options, which can be beneficial for service members with busy schedules.
- Tuition Assistance: The military offers tuition assistance programs to help service members pay for education expenses.
- Education Benefits: The military offers various education benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill.
- Leadership Opportunities: Pursuing higher education while in the military can provide opportunities for leadership and professional development.
Tips for Pursuing Higher Education While in the Military
Here are some tips for pursuing higher education while in the military:
- Plan Ahead: Plan ahead and research education programs and benefits before starting your education.
- Choose a Military-Friendly School: Choose a school that is military-friendly and offers flexible scheduling options.
- Take Advantage of Tuition Assistance: Take advantage of tuition assistance programs to help pay for education expenses.
- Seek Support: Seek support from your chain of command and education advisors to help navigate the education process.
Conclusion
Pursuing higher education while in the military can be challenging, but it is possible with the right resources and support. The military offers various education benefits and programs to help service members pursue their educational goals. By understanding the types of education benefits available, how to apply for them, and the challenges and benefits of pursuing higher education while in the military, you can make informed decisions about your education and career goals.
Table: Education Benefits Comparison
| Benefit | Montgomery GI Bill | Post-9/11 GI Bill | Tuition Assistance | VEAP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 36 months of active duty | 100% tuition coverage for public colleges and universities | Up to $250 per credit hour | 36 months of education benefits |
| Benefits | Up to 36 months of education benefits | Up to 100% tuition coverage for public colleges and universities | Up to $250 per credit hour | Up to 36 months of education benefits |
| Application | Apply through military branch | Apply through Veterans Affairs | Apply through military branch | Apply through military branch |
Bullets: Benefits of Pursuing Higher Education While in the Military
• Flexibility
• Tuition Assistance
• Education Benefits
• Leadership Opportunities
• Professional Development
• Career Advancement
• Increased Earning Potential
