Does the Military Pay for 100% of College?
The military has been a popular option for those seeking higher education, especially for those who cannot afford it. The question remains, does the military pay for 100% of college? The answer is not a simple yes or no. In this article, we will explore the different options and programs the military offers to help you pay for college.
Contents
What is the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)?
The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) is a program that provides educational benefits to eligible veterans. To be eligible, you must be an active duty member or have served at least two years in the military. The MGIB pays tuition and fees up to the maximum benefit amount, which is currently $20,235.80 for the 2022-2023 academic year. This is only for public institutions and state-run universities, with no extra charges for room and board, books, or supplies. Private institutions will require you to pay a portion of the tuition fees.
Benefits:
- Maximum benefit amount of $20,235.80 for the 2022-2023 academic year
- Payment schedule: monthly, up to 36 months
- Eligible for full-time, part-time, and online courses
- Some schools participate in the Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
What is the Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)?
The Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) is a program that provides educational benefits to eligible Selected Reservists. To be eligible, you must have served at least six years in the Selected Reserve or have a high school diploma or equivalent. The MGIB-SR pays up to 100% of tuition and fees, not to exceed $24,340 for the 2022-2023 academic year. This is for public institutions and state-run universities only.
Benefits:
- Maximum benefit amount of $24,340 for the 2022-2023 academic year
- Payment schedule: monthly, up to 15 years
- Eligible for full-time, part-time, and online courses
- Some schools participate in the Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
What is the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Post-9/11 GI Bill)?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a program that provides educational benefits to eligible veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty since September 10, 2001. The Post-9/11 GI Bill pays up to 100% of in-state tuition and fees for public institutions. For private institutions, the military pays up to $24,474 for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Benefits:
- Maximum benefit amount of $24,474 for the 2022-2023 academic year
- Payment schedule: monthly, up to 15 years
- Eligible for full-time, part-time, and online courses
- Some schools participate in the Post-9/11 GI Bill
Does the Military Pay for 100% of College? The Answer is Complicated
So, does the military pay for 100% of college? The answer is no, but almost. The Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill provide education benefits, but they are not the same. Public institutions and state-run universities receive full payment, while private institutions and out-of-state tuition require the student to pay a portion of the fees.
Here is a comparison of the three programs:
| Program | Maximum Benefit Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) | $20,235.80 | 2 years active duty or eligible veterans |
| Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) | $24,340 | 6 years in the Selected Reserve or high school diploma |
| Post-9/11 GI Bill | $24,474 | 90 days of active duty since 9/11/01 |
Other Educational Benefits:
- Veterans Administration (VA) Work Study Program: Allows students to work part-time and receive a stipend.
- Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): Provides financial assistance to members of the military to attend colleges and universities.
- Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA): Provides education benefits to spouses of military personnel.
Conclusion
While the military does not pay for 100% of college, they offer a range of educational benefits that can help cover tuition fees. Understanding the different programs and their eligibility requirements can help you make informed decisions about your education. By considering the options, you can take advantage of the education benefits offered by the military and achieve your higher education goals.
