Post-service College Benefits for Military Members

If I serve in the military, will they pay for my college after I finish my service? How does this work, and are there any restrictions on what I can study or where?

Yes, if you serve in the military, you may be eligible for post-service educational benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This bill provides up to 4 academic years, or 36 months worth, of educational benefits for veterans, service members, and their families.

Here's how it generally works: The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers tuition and fees, and also provides a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. The amount of this benefit is determined by the length of your service. For full benefits, you generally need to serve at least 36 months or, if you were discharged for a service-connected disability, at least 30 continuous days.

One of the great aspects of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is that it can be used at colleges, universities, trade schools, and for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and flight schools. To be eligible, a school (foreign or domestic) must be accredited and must participate in the GI Bill program.

It's also worth knowing that if you would like to attend a private or an out-of-state school, the GI Bill may not cover the full cost of tuition and fees. To help with this, there is a program called the Yellow Ribbon Program. If your school participates in this program, they agree to contribute funds to your education, and the VA matches that amount. There are requirements and limits, though, so make sure to get all the details on the VA site or contact the school's veterans' affairs office.

Don't forget, the GI Bill benefits have an expiration -- you usually need to use them within 15 years of your last 90-day period of active service. Overall, your service in the military can provide a significant financial pathway to higher education. Always make sure to confirm the details with the Department of Veterans Affairs or a counselor knowledgeable in military benefits.