Rich's Tab

Expand your education. Enrich your life. Make more money.

A word from someone who learned the hard way

"Use all the educational opportunities afforded you in the military. I never did and now I'm kicking myself for it."

— Rich Jefferies, U.S. Navy, Vietnam.

The military is one of the few employers that will pay you to go to school while you're still on the payroll. These resources are available to you right now. Don't be the person who retires wishing they'd used them.

Tuition Assistance (TA)

Top Pick
College
Active Duty

The military pays up to 100% of tuition costs for college courses taken during your service — up to $4,500/year. This is money sitting on the table. Use it.

GI Bill (Post-9/11)

Top Pick
College
Active Duty / Veterans

Covers full tuition at public schools, a monthly housing allowance, and a book stipend. One of the most powerful education benefits in the world. Don't leave it behind.

CLEP & DSST Exams

College Credit
Active Duty

Test out of college courses for free and earn college credit without sitting through a class. You already know more than you think. Turn your military experience into credits.

SOC / Community College of the Air Force

College
Active Duty

Service-specific programs that help you earn an associate's or bachelor's degree while you serve. Your military training may already count as college credit.

MyCAA Scholarship

Spouses
Military Spouses

Up to $4,000 for military spouses to pursue portable career training and education. Pass this along to your spouse — they deserve opportunities too.

Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education (DANTES)

Testing & Certs
Active Duty

Free standardized tests and certification exams for service members. Get your CompTIA, PMP, or other certifications on the military's dime.

Military OneSource Education Counseling

Counseling
Active Duty / Reservists

Free, confidential counseling to help you figure out your education path. If you don't know where to start — start here.

Army Ignited / ArmyU

College
Army (Active Duty)

The Army's education portal connecting soldiers with partner universities for degrees during and after service.

Not sure where to start? Walk into your base's Education Center. Every installation has one. They will sit down with you for free and map out exactly what you qualify for. No appointment needed at most locations.