Pathways for high school grads to join military and later attend college?

Hi guys, I'm about to graduate from high school and am really thinking about joining the military first before heading to college. I'm not exactly sure about the process and prospects though. Is this a feasible path? What are their programs that can help me transition or work towards a college degree when I'm ready?

Absolutely, joining the military before attending college is not only feasible but also offers numerous benefits that can aid in your transition to college later on.

One option you have is the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program at many colleges. Here, you can receive a scholarship that covers your tuition (or a substantial portion of it) in exchange for a commitment to serve in the military after graduation. If you're already set on the military and have a particular branch in mind, this could be a great option.

Another popular option is attending a service academy such as the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, or the U.S. Air Force Academy. What's unique about these institutions is that they provide a four-year undergraduate education along with training to become an officer in the military, all at no cost. However, keep in mind that competition for these academies is quite intense.

If you're looking to join the military immediately after high school and push college to a later date, you certainly have education benefits to look forward to. The military offers resources such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Montgomery GI Bill. These bills provide financial support for education and housing to servicemen and women wishing to go to college after their military service.

In line with the above-mentioned programs, there is also the Tuition Assistance program that pays up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. This can be a tremendous help towards earning a degree while actively serving.

It's also good to note that military service imparts invaluable life, leadership, and interpersonal skills which can significantly enrich your college experience. To ensure the best path for your personal circumstances and goals, it is worthwhile discussing these options with a military recruiter or career counselor at your school who can provide more personalized advice.

Just keep in mind to ensure the programs align with your future career goals and interests. Transitioning to college after military service requires careful planning so it's wise to start early and gather as much information as possible.