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There are many jobs that benefit greatly from a college education. It makes it difficult, then that college is one of the most expensive things to pay for these days. Fortunately, the military offers a variety of tuition assistance programs that can help offset the cost of attending college. In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of military tuition assistance and how to apply for it. Whether you’re looking to get your degree or simply take some classes to improve your job prospects, hopefully this article can provide some helpful information.
What is Military TA?
Military TA (Tuition Assistance) is an amazing program offered to members of the United States military that can cover the cost of college tuition. This great opportunity is available to any service member currently serving on active, reserve, or National Guard Duty and is designed to help soldiers advance their educational goals while they are still actively serving in the military. Those who receive TA are able to use the funds to pursue accredited degrees, certificates, and other approved educational programs at eligible institutions around the country. It allows people to gain skills and further their knowledge, giving them a competitive edge for long-term success. The support offered for schooling through the military is a big reason many people enlist.
One of the most attractive benefits of joining the military is the ability to get college tuition paid for with military TA. TA is a monetary award given to service members making it easier to afford higher education. Although there are restrictions on universities, majors, and course loads approved for TA, payments will range from $250 – $4,500 per semester depending on eligibility. This expense allowance can be utilized towards any approved university or program, making it an incredibly beneficial incentive when considering enlisting in the military. As well, there are some online colleges for the military that specialize in working with those in active service, or even if you’re in reserve for the moment.
Who is eligible for TA benefits?
TA, or Tuition Assistance, is available to all members of the United States military; both Active Duty and Reserve Service members are eligible, as well as National Guard personnel. Part-time members of the Selected Reserves must complete their Initial active duty for training, along with an additional six years of service afterward in order to use TA benefits. The most important factor in eligibility is remaining in good standing within the military and thus being qualified to take courses without interfering with one’s job and duties. Those who qualify have access to generous benefits which could make pursuing their educational goals easier, and thereby further job prospects afterward.
How do you apply for TA benefits and what’s the process like?
If you’re interested in getting tuition assistance for college through the military, you’ll need to know about the application process and how to take full advantage of the benefits available. Applying for these benefits is relatively painless – simply fill out the application form and meet the requirements to be eligible – with certain branches having more detailed applications than others. To further ease your potential burden, many schools have dedicated offices that can walk you through all of the options and paperwork. During this time, they may also provide advice on which courses or classes are covered by TA as well as what other military resources exist at their institution. Ultimately, applying for Tuition Assistance is a pretty straightforward path with clear expectations, which makes it simple for those seeking financial aid.
What happens if you withdraw from a class or stop using your TA benefits altogether?
Withdrawing from a class or stopping your TA benefits altogether can cause serious financial consequences for those using military tuition assistance. In some cases, a withdrawal could result in a need to repay the government for any expenses related to the course. Additionally, you may also be prevented from re-enrolling until you have repaid these funds. Careful planning is essential when utilizing military tuition assistance, so it’s important to make sure all of your classes are necessary before signing up and only withdraw if absolutely necessary.
While military service isn’t the right life path for everyone, for those who are looking to specialize in certain skills or are seeking further education, it can be a very convenient option. There are tons of opportunities you can take advantage of through the military, and they can often be a career path in and of themselves. So, take the time to think it through, and it it fits you, then enlist and enroll soon!
About the Author
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being outdoors and researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.
