Optimal military branch to join for college benefits?

Hi folks, I'm a rising junior in high school and considering joining the military for the college benefits. Can you recommend what might be the best branch to join for someone with my intentions? Appreciate any help!

All branches of the military offer significant education benefits, so it often comes down to your personal preferences and intended career path.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is available to all military branches and is usually the most substantial benefit. It can provide up to 100% of the cost of in-state tuition for an undergraduate program at a public university. If you spend 36 months on active duty, you'll receive 100% of the benefits. The Bill also includes a stipend for housing and books. This program can also be transferred to dependents, which is an excellent benefit if you have children.

Now, let's see how individual branches could differ:

1. Army: Alongside the GI Bill, the Army offers several other scholarships, like the ROTC ones, which can pay for four years of college in exchange for a service commitment.

2. Air Force: The Community College of the Air Force offers associate degrees for enlisted personnel, which can be a base to further your education. Air Force also offers an Air Force Tuition Assistance program that pays for college courses you take in your off-duty time.

3. Navy: Besides the GI Bill, the Navy College Program and the Tuition Assistance Program can help cover tuition costs for sailors while they are still serving.

4. Marine Corps: Marines can take advantage of the Marine Corps Tuition Assistance Program, which can cover up to 100% of tuition expenses.

5. Coast Guard: They have an excellent Tuition Assistance Program, too, offering to cover up to 100% of the tuition for Coast Guard members.

When choosing a branch, consider not only education benefits but also where you'd like to serve, the type of roles you are interested in, the lifestyle, and the branch culture. Talking to recruiters from different branches can give you a better feel for what life would be like in that branch.

Remember that joining the military is a big commitment, and while the education benefits are tremendous, make sure you're ready for the other aspects of service. Good luck!