You must have a plan in place to pay your tuition and other costs associated with attending college to create an effective educational plan. The GI Bill is the gold standard of educational support, because it covers a variety of educational programs. As a military service member, you may quality for financial support under numerous GI Bill categories. These categories include active duty, reservist and veterans. The GI Bill gives you the option of attending more than one college and earning more than one degree at a time. For example, the GI Bill can pay for you to pursue a degree in economics, as well as a second degree in information technology. Tuition assistance is capped at $250 per semester credit hour and $4,500 per year. If military assistance does not cover all your costs, you can apply for federal and state funding.
Consider your current experience and the job market when deciding on an educational focus. Education Service Officers and career counselors offer guidance that can help you narrow your choices. You can also request career skills and interest assessment testing to help you match your skills and personal interests with the appropriate academic plan. Active members and reservists can access educational and career counseling through the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you would like to stay on your current career path, you simply need to match a degree program to your current career. You may be able to apply your experience toward college credit by staying in your current field.
A number of schools advertise as being military friendly. You may have to do a bit of homework to find a school that offers what you need and fits your lifestyle. Once you have found a school, an advisor will walk you through the application and admissions process. Be sure to ask the advisor for total tuition costs and any additional fees. You will need to know your financial obligation when applying for military tuition assistance.
The Department of Defense created the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support Program. The DANTES program can help you locate a military friendly institution. The program also offers testing and distance learning support.