Consider the pros and cons of an online school while you determine what school you will attend. An online school allows you to take your schooling with you wherever you go as long as you have Internet access.
Visit the website for the Army Continuing Education System (ACES) to learn about your educational benefits as a soldier. You can also learn about the college credits you may already have under your belt as a result of your regular military training.
Visit the Army Education Center at your current post. Speak with one of the representatives at the center about what classes you need to take in order to graduate with the degree you desire. Discuss college choices with your Army Education Center representative as well.
Discuss a Servicemembers Opportunity College Associates Degree (SOCAD) with the college you will attend. The SOCAD agreement ensures that the Army Transition Assistance Program (TAP) will cover your college fully. The college will review your past military service to determine what courses you need to earn your degree.
Research alternative funding sources for your college career for any expenses the Army does not cover. There is a broad range of scholarships available to members of the Armed Services that come from organizations outside of the military (see resource below).
Work with your college to create a schedule that fits around your military career. Most colleges are more than willing to adjust your schedule to comply with your military obligations. Schedule a meeting with the college's guidance counselor and bring a detailed report of your military schedule so you can work together to create a suitable class schedule.
Ask the guidance counselor about your school's residency period. The residency period is the amount of time and coursework you must complete at the school before you can transfer your credits to a new college. Once you complete your residency period, your credits will transfer to another SOCAD college without trouble.