Can You Go to College While in the Military? Here’s What You Need to Know
Yes, you absolutely can go to college while serving in the military—and thousands of active-duty service members do just that. Thanks to flexible online programs, military education benefits, and supportive policies, pursuing higher education while serving your country has never been more accessible.
In this guide, we’ll explore how military members can earn degrees, what resources are available, and how to succeed in balancing duty and academics.
Why Pursue College While in the Military?
Many service members enroll in college to:
- Advance their military careers
- Prepare for civilian employment
- Earn promotions through educational credits
- Learn specialized skills in areas like cybersecurity, healthcare, or engineering
Whether you’re planning for life after service or climbing the ranks, getting a degree can open doors.
Education Options for Active-Duty Military
| Education Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Degrees | Flexible programs offered by accredited universities nationwide |
| Base Education Centers | On-site classes through partnered colleges on military installations |
| Community Colleges | Affordable, accessible options with transferable credits |
| Military-Specific Colleges | Institutions tailored to service members, such as AMU or UMGC |
Top Degree Programs Chosen by Military Members
Many choose degree paths that align with military or post-military careers:
- Criminal Justice
- Cybersecurity and Information Technology
- Business Administration
- Healthcare and Nursing
- Engineering and Aviation
- Education and Teaching
- Psychology and Counseling
Online programs make it possible to study from anywhere—even on deployment.
Tuition Assistance and Military Education Benefits
One of the biggest perks of being in the military is the financial support for college:
1. Tuition Assistance (TA)
- Covers up to 100% of tuition (usually up to $250/credit hour, $4,500/year)
- Available for active-duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard
2. Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Covers full tuition and fees at public schools, plus housing allowance and books
- Can be used after separation or while on active duty
3. Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)
- Supports education for both active-duty and selected reserve service members
4. Scholarships for Military
- Many schools and organizations offer military-specific scholarships
5. Yellow Ribbon Program
- Helps cover out-of-pocket tuition costs at private colleges
Online Learning: The Military’s Best Friend
Why Online College Works for Active Duty
| Benefit | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| 24/7 Access | Study when your duty schedule allows |
| Self-Paced Options | Progress at your own speed |
| Mobile-Friendly Platforms | Learn from your laptop, tablet, or phone |
| Military Support Teams | Advisors trained to help service members succeed |
Colleges with strong military support often have military academic advisors, flexible leave-of-absence policies, and transfer credit evaluations for military training and experience.
Tips for Balancing College and Military Life
- Create a Realistic Schedule – Factor in duty hours, shifts, and deployments
- Communicate with Professors – Let them know you’re active duty—they’re often flexible
- Use On-Base Resources – Visit your Education Center for help with enrollment and benefits
- Earn Credit for Military Experience – Use the Joint Services Transcript (JST) to convert experience into college credit
- Choose Accredited Programs – Always verify a school’s accreditation and military-friendly status
Schools That Cater to Military Students
Many colleges are recognized as Military Friendly Schools and offer:
- Discounted tuition for service members
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated support staff
- Priority enrollment
Some top online schools for military students include:
- University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
- American Military University (AMU)
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Arizona State University (ASU Online)
- Liberty University
Planning for the Future: Military to Civilian Transition
Getting your degree while serving puts you ahead of the game for civilian life. Whether you’re preparing for a new career, starting a business, or continuing your education with a graduate degree, you’ll be equipped with credentials and confidence.
Going to college while in the military is not only possible—it’s practical. With flexible programs, generous financial aid, and growing institutional support, today’s service members can earn degrees without putting their missions on hold.