Other Options for College Credit
College Credit for Military Experience
As a veteran or service member, you may be able to receive college credit for your military experience, training, and service - saving you time and money to complete your degree.
The American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the U.S. Department of Defense to review military training and experience and recommend appropriate college credit. ACE's credit recommendations appear in the ACE Military Guide.
You may also be able to receive credit for professional development and training courses offered by business and industry, which can be evaluated through various prior learning assessment options. Contact an advisor at your community college to learn more.
Contact Your College Advisor and VA Certifying Official
You can take several steps to ensure you are on the right path.
Contact your community college's advisor to answer questions and help you get started. They can help you obtain your military transcript. Discuss courses or training that might qualify for a prior learning assessment with your advisor.
Visit your college's website to familiarize yourself with its resources. Inquire about additional resources that could help you prepare for achieving your goals.
All approved colleges and programs have a VA Certifying Official who can assist veterans and service member students with the benefits process and explore their educational options. To find the VA Certifying Official at your community college, go to the federal WEAMS Institution Search.
Apply for VA Educational Benefit Benefits
As a veteran or service member, you may be eligible for educational benefits through numerous VA Educational Benefit programs. For example, the Yellow Ribbon Program allows approved institutions of higher learning and the VA to partially or fully fund tuition and fee expenses that exceed established thresholds under the Post-9/11 VA Educational Benefit. To find out what education benefits you are eligible to receive, visit the VA Educational Benefit website or contact the Veterans Affairs (VA) Certifying Official at your community college for a benefits application.
You also should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Financial support may also be available to veterans and service members who wish to take CLEP or DSST exams.
Additional Resources
The Joint Services Transcript (JST) documents professional military education, training, and occupation experiences of service members and veterans.