Military Service

Joining the military enables you to do several options at once. You can serve your country, earn a salary, and get training that will help you whether or not you make the service your lifetime career. Here are some options that the military can offer:

Military Academy

The US Military offers five prestigious colleges:

  • Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO

  • United States Military Academy in West Point, NY

  • United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD

  • United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT

  • United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY

Acceptance to the academies is similar to college admissions, but once accepted all students receive free tuition, room/board, books, and a monthly stipend. Students will receive a college degree and an officer commission as they enter service upon graduation.

Military Enlistment

If you don't plan on starting college right after high school you have the option to enlist. Through this process, you will learn a job specialty and do hands-on work for the duration of your contract.

The military offers unique opportunities available nowhere else. After your service is completed, you will be eligible for money for college. Explore all branches of the military to decide which service, skills, and enlistment options will be for you.

ROTC Programs

Colleges and universities often offer ROTC programs and ROTC scholarships. Requirements for these programs and post-graduation responsibilities vary; contact the ROTC programs at the college campus of the Armed Service branches for more information.

Each of the five military branches has their own ROTC program with a partner college or university.

National Guard or Reserve Programs

The National Guard works with college students who seek scholarship money. Students in this program will participate in monthly and summer Guard activities and agree to post-graduation responsibilities.

Military Colleges

If you are interested in a military experience while in college without the commitment to the Armed Services, you may want to explore a military college. The Citadel, Virginia Military Institute, and New Mexico Institute are examples of colleges with a military academy lifestyle.