Military Assistance with College Fees

Hello all! I'm a junior at high school and I'm considering different paths for after I graduate. The cost of college is a massive concern for me. So, I've been looking into the military. My question is, do all branches of the military help cover your college expenses, or only certain branches?

Yes, financial assistance for education is indeed available across all six branches of the military - the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force. However, the specific programs and how much they cover can vary.

One prevalent program is the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which is applicable to all branches. If you serve at least 36 months, this bill can cover up to the full cost of in-state tuition for public colleges or a national maximum per academic year for private colleges, along with a monthly housing stipend and a stipend for books and supplies.

There's also the Tuition Assistance Program, which pays up to 100% of tuition expenses for semester hours costing $250 or less. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, obligated service, application process, and restrictions. This money is usually paid directly to the institution by the individual services.

Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships are another option, available for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These scholarships can pay full tuition and fees, provide an allowance for books and supplies, and even offer a monthly stipend.

Each branch may also offer additional programs, such as loan repayment programs or the College Fund, often known as the "GI Bill Kicker." The availability might depend on factors such as your role, contract length, and time of service.

In any case, the benefits can be quite substantial, but keep in mind that military service is a serious commitment beyond the financial aspects, and it is important to consider all aspects before making a decision.