Military Tuition Assistance
As a member of the U.S. Armed Forces you can take advantage of Tuition Assistance (TA), which allows you to have the military pay for your off-duty education. If you currently serve in the military, you can use Tuition Assistance to support your professional and personal self-development goals, whether they are obtained through the classroom or online distance learning. Keep in mind Tuition Assistance is not a loan; it’s money you have earned for your education.
Are You Eligible for Military Tuition Assistance?
Armed Forces Tuition Assistance is a benefit paid to eligible members of the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard. Through Congress, each service has the ability to pay up to 100 percent of the tuition expenses of its members. Check with your service branch for details. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, obligated service, application process, and restrictions.
Air Force Tuition Assistance: For Active Duty Air Force and Air Force Reserves
Army Tuition Assistance: For Active Duty Army, Army Reserves on Active Duty Status and Army National Guard on Active Duty
Marines Tuition Assistance: For Active Duty Marines
Navy Tuition Assistance: For Active Duty Navy and Naval Reserves in Active Duty Status
Coast Guard Tuition Assistance: For Active Duty Coast Guard, Selected Reserve and Civilian Employees
What Does It Cover?
Army, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard Tuition Assistance pays $250 per semester credit hour, up to $4,500 for the fiscal year. Navy Tuition Assistance pays $250 per semester credit hour with a limit of 16 semester hours per fiscal year.
Army, Air Force, Marines and Navy Tuition Assistance pays for tuition, lab fees, enrollment fees, special fees, and computer fees. Coast Guard Tuition Assistance pays for tuition and lab fees.
Top-up Benefit
Active duty military members can use the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) Top-up in addition to TA to cover course costs. The amount of the benefit can be equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of Tuition Assistance that is paid by the military for the course. The amount of the benefit is limited to the amount you would receive for the same course if regular MGIB benefits were being paid.
How to Apply for TA
Each branch has its own form and procedure for applying for Tuition Assistance. Contact your Education Services Officer (ESO) for details.