Finding Your College: College Tips for Military Families

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Ortiz, a master driver assigned to U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, Headquarters and Headquarters company, right, receives flowers and a diploma

15 Tips for Servicemembers and Their Dependents

Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming, especially for military families juggling frequent moves, deployments, and unique timelines. These college tips for military families are designed to help servicemembers and their dependents make informed decisions, maximize education benefits, and find the right academic fit.

1. Start Early: Visit Your Education Center or VA Office

Head to your installation's Education Center or Veteran Affairs Office if separated. These agencies can help you understand your tuition assistance benefits, which schools have a memorandum of understanding with the military, and help your education and training align with your future career plans.

Military members wishing to continue their education can find that there are a variety of financial assistance programs to help fund their endeavors. Programs such as the Montgomery GI Bill

2. Transferring GI Bill Benefits to Dependents: What You Need to Know

If you want your dependents to have access to your educational benefits, make sure to add them today. You may be able to transfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a dependent family member if you’re on active duty or in the Selected Reserve. First, you have to ensure you meet all of the requirements including completing at least 6 years of service on the date your request is approved, agreeing to add 4 more years of service, and the person getting benefits is enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Talk to your Veteran Affairs Office for more information on how your dependents can access your educational benefits. 

3. College Financial Aid for Military Families: Scholarships, Grants, and More

If you need financial assistance, research and apply for scholarships, grants, and financial aid options offered by both colleges, external organizations, and even private organizations like the Humphreys United Club and Daegu Civilian & Spouses Club which offer grants and scholarships to servicemembers and their dependents. 

Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeremy Laramore. (U.S. Navy photo)

4. Use DoD Tools Like Tuition Assistance Decide for Smarter Choices

Tuition Assistance (TA) Decide is the DoD’s college comparison tool created for those using DoD tuition assistance. This website tailors your search to your needs, provides information on education costs, shows courses offered at each degree and certificate level, and even notes the point of contact for the school’s military liaisons. Tuition Assistance (TA) Decide is the servicemember's best tool for finding a college. 

5. College Tips for Military Families: Stay Ahead with Early Planning

Begin researching colleges and compiling necessary materials well in advance. Deadlines can sneak up on you, and starting early gives you more time to perfect your application.

6. Understanding College Application Requirements as a Servicemember or Dependent

Each college has its own set of application requirements, including essays, standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and transcripts. Make sure you understand what each college needs from you and plan accordingly. 

7. Create a College Application Timeline to Stay on Track

Break down the application process into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each one. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't miss any important steps.

8. Proofreading and Presentation: Make Your Application Stand Out

Take the time to review your application materials for spelling and grammar errors. Typos can detract from your application, so it's important to present yourself in the best possible light. 

9. Highlight Leadership and Extracurriculars in Your Application

Showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Colleges value well-rounded applicants who demonstrate leadership, passion, and commitment outside of the classroom.

10. Write College Essays That Share Your Unique Military Experience

Use your essays to tell your unique story and highlight aspects of yourself that may not be apparent from your grades and test scores. Be authentic, honest, and reflective in your writing. 

11. How to Request Strong Recommendation Letters from Military and Civilian Contacts

Ask teachers, counselors, mentors, and even your military leadership for recommendation letters well in advance of deadlines. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and character. Make sure their current contact information is noted in their recommendation letter. For military leader recommendations, consider having them use a personal email as personnel could be separated from the military or on leave and not have access to their military email accounts.

12. Stay Organized: Keep Copies and Track Deadlines

Keep track of all application materials, deadlines, and correspondence with colleges. Make copies of everything you submit for your records. 

13. Demonstrate Interest to Colleges: Campus Visits and Communication Tips

Show colleges that you're genuinely interested in attending by visiting campus, attending information sessions, and contacting admissions representatives with thoughtful questions. Have a friend read it. Read it out loud.

14. Always Have a Backup Plan and Don’t Procrastinate

Apply to more than one school. Having a plan A and a plan B is always best. After communicating with various schools through the application process, you may find that the “backup school” is actually the right fit for you! Take advantage of your education benefits now while serving in an active duty capacity. Complete a degree or certificate program that will make you a highly desired candidate in your desired field after service. 

15. Final Encouragement: Stay Positive and Keep Moving Forward

The college application process can be stressful, but try to stay positive and focused on your goals. Remember that rejection is a normal part of the process, and there are many excellent colleges out there where you can thrive. Following these tips and staying organized throughout the process will increase your chances of submitting strong applications and finding the right college fit for you.

* The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.