Military transfer planning
Your service may already count toward college credit.
Use Will My Credits Transfer to explore how your military training and coursework may be evaluated, then organize documents in a secure Student Passport.
This guide helps you plan your next step with confidence.
Military learners often have credit opportunities through training, experience, and education benefits. Use the questions below to understand what to expect, then explore your options when you are ready.
- Find military-friendly schools. Compare programs and support services.
- Understand your credit options. Explore equivalencies and ACE recommendations.
- Plan your funding. Learn about GI Bill benefits and additional aid programs.
When you’re ready: check how your military experience could transfer, then save your plan for later.
FAQ for military learners
Questions often asked by military learners and veterans headed to college
Expand any question to read more.
How do I find a military-friendly college?
Start by exploring the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) consortium, which includes over 1,700 colleges committed to supporting military learners. Use our Transfer Profile, Program, and Course searches to gather detailed information about specific schools and what they offer. It’s also a good idea to reach out to the admissions office and speak with an advisor who specializes in working with military students.
How can I learn more about how my prior learning and experience will count?
The American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) to review military training and experience to recommend how it can translate into college credit for Armed Forces members. Contact your prospective institution to find out how they accept ACE recommended credit. You will have to provide a transcript from your military service. Use our Equivalency searches to find out how colleges and universities have previously evaluated and accepted credits.
What is the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is an education benefit for military service members, as well as eligible Reserve and Guard members who were activated for more than 90 days. It can help pay for college tuition and fees, provide a housing allowance, and cover books and supplies. The amount you receive depends on how long you served. These benefits can usually be used for up to 15 years after an honorable discharge or retirement. In some cases, you can also choose to transfer your benefits to a spouse or child.
Are there ways other than the Post-9/11 GI Bill that the Military will help me pay for college?
The Army, Marine Corps and Navy all have College Fund Programs that can be added to the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Each branch determines if you qualify and how much you will receive. The Air Force has the Montgomery GI Bill Kicker that works in a similar way. It is mandatory that you have a high school diploma and be enrolled in the Post-9/11 GI Bill. There may be additional requirements based on your Service, test scores, and occupation.
How can I save time and money completing my degree as an active-duty service member?
Planning ahead can make a big difference. Start by choosing a college and program that fits your goals and military lifestyle. If you move often because of assignments or deployments, an online or distance-learning program may offer more flexibility. Getting started as early as possible and sticking with a program that travels well can help you finish faster and avoid losing credits.
Can I get my military transcript from ACE?
ACE doesn’t issue military transcripts directly. They must come from your branch of service or through the Joint Services Transcript (JST) system. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard members each have specific processes for requesting transcripts that document training and experience. Veterans can usually request transcripts through their former service branch, and additional documentation may be required depending on service history.
Is there military financial aid for spouses and dependents besides sharing GI Bill Benefits?
Yes. The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program offers up to $4,000 in financial assistance for spouses pursuing education, licenses, or credentials in portable career fields. There is also the Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, which provides eligible spouses and dependents of veterans with education benefits. DEA benefits can be used for degree programs, certificates, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training for a set period of time.