What Colleges Does the Military Pay For?
The military offers various educational benefits to its members, including the Tuition Assistance (TA) program. This program allows military personnel to pursue higher education, from certificates to doctoral degrees, while still serving in the military. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of which colleges the military pays for, and what you can expect from the Tuition Assistance program.
Types of Colleges and Institutions
The military pays for a wide range of colleges and institutions, including:
• Public colleges and universities: Four-year public institutions, community colleges, and vocational schools are all eligible for Tuition Assistance.
• Private colleges and universities: Many private institutions offer online and distance learning programs that are approved for military Tuition Assistance.
• Online colleges and universities: Many online institutions, such as online community colleges, online universities, and online vocational schools, offer approved programs.
• Vocational schools and technical schools: Institutions that offer vocational training, certificate programs, and technical skills training are also eligible.
• Online training and certification programs: Some training programs, such as software certification programs, are approved for military Tuition Assistance.
Tuition Assistance Eligibility
To be eligible for Tuition Assistance, you must:
• Be a military service member: Active duty, reserve, or National Guard personnel are eligible.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent: This includes a GED, TASC, or High School Equivalency Test.
• Be currently serving in the military: To be eligible, you must be serving in the military at the time you enroll in the program.
Tuition Assistance Limitations
While the Tuition Assistance program offers many benefits, there are some limitations to be aware of:
• Cap on benefits: The military limits the amount of Tuition Assistance per fiscal year to $4,500 for junior enlisted personnel and $6,000 for junior officers.
• Cost per credit hour: Most colleges and institutions have a set cost per credit hour, which can affect the overall cost of the program.
• Degree and certification limitations: Some programs may not be eligible for Tuition Assistance, such as doctoral programs or online certificate programs.
• Other educational benefits: Military members may be eligible for other educational benefits, such as the GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, or Purple Heart tuition benefits.
Table: Tuition Assistance Breakdown
| Benefit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Maximum annual benefit | $4,500 (junior enlisted) or $6,000 (junior officers) |
| Per credit hour cost | $50-$300 |
| Average degree completion cost | $10,000-$20,000 |
| Online programs | Vary depending on institution and program |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Tuition Assistance program:
Q: Can I use Tuition Assistance for a certificate program?
A: Yes, military members can use Tuition Assistance for certificate programs.
Q: Can I use Tuition Assistance for online courses?
A: Yes, military members can use Tuition Assistance for online courses and degree programs.
Q: Do I need to use Tuition Assistance for the entire program?
A: No, you can use Tuition Assistance for a specific semester or course, as long as it meets the program requirements.
Q: Will my education benefits transfer between branches?
A: No, education benefits do not transfer between branches.
Conclusion
The military’s Tuition Assistance program offers a valuable opportunity for military personnel to pursue higher education while still serving. By understanding the types of colleges and institutions eligible, the limitations and breakdown of benefits, and frequently asked questions, military members can make informed decisions about their education goals. Whether you’re pursuing a certificate program or a doctoral degree, the Tuition Assistance program is an excellent way to take advantage of the military’s commitment to education and professional development.
