Tuition Assistance Program

What is the Tuition Assistance Program?

The Tuition Assistance program is a military benefit for currently enlisted U.S. Armed Forces members that allows them to continue their education during their off-duty hours. The program began in the 1950s as a way to extend education benefits to active duty personnel. Before the Tuition Assistance program, these benefits were only available to veterans. Both officers and enlisted personnel are eligible for tuition assistance. Benefits through the Tuition Assistance program are paid by the Department of Defense.

What Does the Tuition Assistance Program Cover?

The Tuition Assistance program pays for classes at any college, university, or technical/vocational institution that is accredited or recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The institution may be regional or national and the classes may be attended on campus or online. The courses may lead to a vocational or technical degree or certificate, or they may lead to an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree. The program covers:

• Tuition
• Mandatory Enrollment Fees
• Instructional Fees
• Computer Fees
• Laboratory Fees

While all branches of the military have a tuition assistance program, the details of the education benefits vary. The Air Force, Army and Navy all cover up to 100 percent of tuition and fees with a maximum annual limit of $4500. The U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard have similar limitations. Using the standard Tuition Assistance program doesn't reduce your basic Montgomery GI Bill benefits.

Tuition Assistance Top-Up Program

A newer program that was signed into law on October 30, 2000, the Top-up program can pay the difference between the amount of Tuition Assistance program and the total cost of a college course. This program does affect the Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty benefits, and it's only available to service members who qualify for the MGIB--Active Duty and have served two years of active duty.

Check with your branch's education office to get further details about the application process, service requirements, and program restrictions. Most branches have an online application process, making it easy for you to start working towards your degree.

GI Bill