Paying for College as a Member of the Military
Pursuing higher education can be a significant investment, but for members of the military, there are several options available to help fund their educational pursuits. In addition to the personal and professional benefits of higher education, many military members and veterans are eligible for education benefits that can help them achieve their academic goals. Here are five ways the military pays for college:
1. GI Bill Benefits
The GI Bill is one of the most well-known education benefits available to military members and veterans. Established in 1944, the GI Bill provides financial assistance for education and training to those who have served in the military. There are several types of GI Bills, including the Post-9⁄11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty, and the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve.
- Post-9⁄11 GI Bill: This bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits to veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty since September 10, 2001. Benefits include tuition and fees, a monthly stipend for living expenses, and a books and supplies stipend.
- Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty: This bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits to veterans who have served at least two years of active duty. Benefits include a monthly stipend for education expenses.
- Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve: This bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits to members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air National Guard, and Coast Guard Reserve. Benefits include a monthly stipend for education expenses.
2. Military Tuition Assistance
In addition to GI Bill benefits, many military branches offer tuition assistance programs to help members pay for college courses. These programs vary by branch, but most provide a certain amount of money per credit hour or per semester.
- Army Tuition Assistance: The Army offers up to $4,500 per year in tuition assistance to active duty, Reserve, and National Guard soldiers.
- Navy Tuition Assistance: The Navy offers up to $3,750 per year in tuition assistance to active duty and Reserve sailors.
- Air Force Tuition Assistance: The Air Force offers up to $4,500 per year in tuition assistance to active duty and Reserve airmen.
3. Scholarships and Grants
There are many scholarships and grants available to military members and veterans, including those offered by the government, non-profit organizations, and private companies. Some popular options include:
- Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship: This scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year to military members and veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart.
- Wounded Warrior Scholarship: This scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year to military members and veterans who have been wounded in combat.
- Tillman Military Scholarship: This scholarship provides up to $10,000 per year to military members and veterans who are pursuing a degree in a STEM field.
4. Education Benefits for Dependents
Many military education benefits are also available to dependents, including spouses and children. These benefits can help dependents pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
- Dependent Education Assistance Program: This program provides up to 45 months of education benefits to dependents of military members who have served at least 90 days of active duty.
- Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts: This program provides up to $4,000 in education benefits to military spouses who are pursuing a degree or certification in a portable career field.
5. Veteran Education Benefits
In addition to GI Bill benefits, many states and private companies offer education benefits to veterans. These benefits can help veterans pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
- Veterans’ Education Benefits: Many states offer education benefits to veterans, including tuition waivers and scholarships.
- Corporate Education Benefits: Many private companies offer education benefits to veterans, including tuition reimbursement and scholarships.
Conclusion
Pursuing higher education can be a significant investment, but for members of the military, there are several options available to help fund their educational pursuits. From GI Bill benefits to military tuition assistance, scholarships, and grants, there are many ways the military pays for college. Whether you’re a military member, veteran, or dependent, there are education benefits available to help you achieve your academic goals.
What is the GI Bill?
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The GI Bill is a education benefit program for military members and veterans that provides financial assistance for education and training.
How much does the military pay for college?
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The amount the military pays for college varies depending on the education benefit program and the individual’s eligibility. Some programs, such as the Post-9⁄11 GI Bill, provide up to 100% tuition and fees, while others, such as military tuition assistance, provide a certain amount per credit hour or per semester.
Can dependents receive education benefits?
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Yes, many military education benefits are also available to dependents, including spouses and children. These benefits can help dependents pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
