Military members have options for getting help to further their civilian education. The most comprehensive program is the GI Bill, which is available to many military members and veterans.

If you were or are in the military, you may be eligible for veterans education benefits. If you’re a spouse or dependent, you may be eligible too.

• Learn about the GI Bill and other education programs.

• Get career counseling.

• Compare schools with the GI Bill Comparison Tool.

• Apply for the GI Bill and other education benefits.

Forever GI Bill

The Forever GI Bill of 2017 makes big changes to many veterans education benefits. Most changes expand or improve upon existing benefits. Highlights include:

• Restoring education benefits to people who lost them because their school closed

• Eliminating the 15-year time limit for those who left active duty on or after January 1, 2013

Many other changes are in effect or coming. See a detailed list of Forever GI Bill changes.

If you're in the military now, your unit may pay for your tuition if you attend college in your off-duty time.

• Learn about the Military Tuition Assistance Program.

• Use the TA Decide tool to compare schools and help you make the best use of your tuition assistance dollars.

Frequent military transfers can be a roadblock to getting your degree. But Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) can help. These civilian colleges and universities:

• Simplify credit transfers

• Reduce the number of credits you must earn at their school to get a degree

• Give classes on or near military installations in the U.S., overseas, and on military ships

• Offer distance learning programs

• Offer degrees that match your military job

• Are open to service members and their families

For more information, talk to your unit's education officer.

If you’re a military spouse, you can find help paying for college or vocational training too. There are a variety of scholarships, grants, and interest-free loans. Find sources of military spouse tuition assistance.