Acquire and fill out the notification form for separation from service. This form can be obtained from any commander you answer to directly, or online at the army personnel service page. On this form, include your intention to enroll in post-secondary education. Include any other circumstances that may inform your case, such as injury or bereavement.
Submit your application form to your immediate supervising commanders. They will be responsible for submitting the application to the separation authority board. Include any documents that may help your case, such as a letter of acceptance from an accredited post-secondary institution.
Speak with a counsel at the Judge Advocate General (JAG) corps. JAG officers are military personnel who are responsible for advising soldiers on all aspects of military and civilian law. When you consult with your JAG lawyer, state your case fully. Provide any documents that may improve the chances of your application succeeding, such as academic transcripts and acceptance letters. Your immediate commander will be able to set you up with a meeting with a JAG lawyer.
Assemble witnesses to testify on your behalf at the separation hearing. A good witness is someone who has seen direct evidence of your commitment to education, such as a commander or trainer. If you have other reasons for wanting to separate, find witnesses who can testify regarding these issues. Make sure that your witnesses know you well, and can provide honest testimony.
Attend the separation hearing on the date specified in your notice from the separation board. Your commander, JAG lawyer and witnesses should also be present. Your JAG lawyer will be able to present oral arguments on your behalf. Go to your hearing prepared with notes about your case, as you will likely be subjected to questioning from the presiding officers. Make sure that your witnesses know the date of the hearing and are able to attend.