Military Pay: Effect of Having a College Degree?

Yo, guys! I was wondering if having a college degree affects check rolls in the military. Does it make a significant difference in terms of pay scale and financial benefits? Insights anyone?

Sure thing! A college degree can indeed affect your pay and compensation in the military. The main way it does this is by allowing you to enter as an officer rather than as an enlisted soldier. This immediately puts you at a higher pay scale, even at entry level.

To illustrate, as of 2024, a new enlisted servicemember (pay grade E-1) might start out making roughly $2,017 per month in base pay. However, if you enter as an officer with a bachelor's degree (pay grade O-1), you could start out making about $3,826 per month in base pay, almost double the enlisted rate.

Also, keep in mind that military pay includes benefits beyond just the base pay. For instance, you also have allowances for housing and meals, which are non-taxable and depend on your location, marital status, and if you have dependents. Plus, officers generally receive more of these benefits than enlisted members.

It’s worth noting, however, that the pathway to becoming an officer tends to be more competitive, and having a degree alone doesn’t guarantee a commission. There's an evaluation process that occurs before someone is accepted into Officer Candidate School or Officer Training School.

Lastly, remember that a military career should take into account many factors beyond just pay, such as commitment, lifestyle, risk, and your passion for the duties associated with the role. The military isn't for everyone, and even if the pay can be higher for officers, make sure to consider these other points too!