Marine Education

Let’s talk college benefits while serving on active duty. Marines have access to an annual amount of $4,500 of tuition assistance, which is upwards of 12 classes a year depending on what school you decide to attend. On top of that, Marines can access their G.I. Bill once they transition OR transfer that benefit to their dependents (spouse, children) which can set their dependents up for higher education later in life. On that topic, let’s do a breakdown of the average college costs right now.

The average yearly cost of college is $36,000 a year. Multiply that by 4 years of school and the total comes out to $144,000.

The remaining 60% of students take 5-6 years to complete their degree. Given the extra time, the cost grows to over $200,000. Additionally, it’s important to give value to the following factors: median lost wages during the 6 years of school, and student loan interest.

In the end, $200,000 grows to an average of $500,000. Half a million dollars to purchase a degree and college experience.

Currently, only 20% of all U.S. jobs require a bachelor’s degree. This low rate reflects a changing labor market and evolving workforce needs. Many traditional, blue-collar jobs that once required only a high school diploma have declined, while an increasing number of industries now demand specialized skills, often obtained through vocational training, military service, or certification programs rather than a four-year college education. Despite this shift, the narrative that pushes young Americans to go straight from high school into college has persisted, often fueled by the belief that a degree is the only path to success. As a result, a large majority of young Americans find themselves burdened with substantial student debt before they even enter the workforce. This creates a financial hurdle that can take years, if not decades, to overcome and limits their ability to invest, save, or make major life decisions, ultimately hampering economic mobility and opportunity for many.

"CURRENTLY, ONLY 20% OF ALL U.S. JOBS REQUIRE A BACHELOR'S DEGREE."

Active-duty service in the U.S. military offers the opportunity to earn tuition assistance and, in some cases, early access to the G.I. Bill, which can significantly alleviate the financial burden of higher education. This not only enables young Americans to gain valuable skills and credentials without accumulating excessive debt but also allows them to serve their country while working towards their educational and career goals.

The appeal of service in the Marine Corps is multifaceted, with over 300 enlisted Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) available to Marines in both the active duty and reserve components. These MOSs encompass a wide range of career fields, including motor transportation, aviation mechanics, psychological operations, artillery, and many more. Time spent serving in these MOSs contributes to the development of valuable job skills that can be applied later in life.

While some of these skills can be transferred to civilian careers, there is still additional knowledge that can be acquired through college classes while serving. The cost of college classes is often a concern, and most civilian students resort to paying out of pocket, taking out loans, or relying on grants and scholarships. Fortunately, by serving in the Marine Corps, individuals gain access to a significant benefit: the ability to utilize up to $4,500 in tuition assistance every fiscal year. This assistance is available from October 1st through September 30th.  At the start of each fiscal year, the amount is reset and made available for a wide range of classes, including those leading to master’s degrees.

• Completion of the Tuition Assistance Orientation Brief for first-time applicants.

• The maximum amount allotted is $4,500 a fiscal year for tuition assistance per service member.

• Marines are limited to a maximum of two TA-funded classes at once.

• TA covers only tuition charges, with non-tuition fees the responsibility of the Marines.

• Successful course completion is defined by specific grade criteria, and failure to meet them may require reimbursement of TA funds.

• TA requests must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the class start date.

• Marines must turn in final grade report within 30 days of class completion.

• Certain vocational/technical certification programs have restrictions on the number of classes approved.

• TA is not authorized for graduate studies beyond the master's degree level.

If every Marine completes their degree before leaving the service, they will reenter the civilian workforce as a more prepared and lethal asset. There are various career paths available after service, and the education obtained through service experience, schools, and the utilization of earned college education with Tuition Assistance benefits is a clear choice. Stay Marine and continue your education.

"A WISE AND FORWARD-THINKING CHOICE FOR ANY MARINE AND THEIR FAMILY."

One of the remarkable opportunities available to Marines is the ability to transfer their education benefits to their dependents. While this privilege does come with an additional obligation of four years of service, it is an invaluable benefit that can profoundly impact the educational prospects of their loved ones. This selfless act not only exemplifies the Marine Corps’ commitment to fostering a sense of unity and support within its ranks but also serves as a wise and forward-thinking choice for any Marine and their family. By extending these educational benefits to their dependents, Marines are not only investing in their own future but also in the future of their children, partners, and other family members. This transfer of benefits ensures that the legacy of service and commitment to personal growth continues, creating a brighter and more promising future for their loved ones through higher education.