Pursuing a post-secondary education offers significant economic advantages. Individuals with higher education credentials often experience increased earning potential, lower unemployment rates, and greater job stability compared to those without such qualifications. Investing in education not only enhances personal development but also opens doors to a wider array of career opportunities.
As a Veteran, it’s essential to utilize available resources to make informed decisions about which school and program you choose. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides the GI Bill Comparison Tool, which assists in evaluating how your benefits apply to various institutions. This tool offers insights into tuition coverage, school graduation rates, and other pertinent information, enabling you to assess the value and suitability of different schools. By leveraging this resource, you can ensure that your chosen institution aligns with both your educational goals and financial considerations. Furthermore, any school not listed in the Comparison Tool are likely not approved to accept GI Bill benefits.
Accreditation is another critical factor in selecting a school, as it affects potential employers’ recognition of your degree and the transferability of credits. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs. There are two main types of institutional accreditation: regional, national.
- Regional accreditation is the most common and widely recognized, covering over 85% of U.S. colleges. Credits from regionally accredited schools often transfer to other regionally accredited schools provided sufficient overlap in programs.
- National accreditation typically applies to vocational, career, or technical programs across the U.S. as well as online. Nationally accredited programs can offer credits that regionally accredited schools cannot, making it sometimes harder to transfer credits.
Understanding these distinctions is vital, as credits from regionally accredited institutions are more widely accepted for transfer, which can significantly impact your educational trajectory. Some careers will also require you to be educated from specifically accredited institutions. For instance, Veterans Health Administration can only hire nursing applications with a degree accredited by either the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Evaluating how Veteran-friendly a school is can greatly influence your educational experience. Consider the following factors:
- Credit Transfer from Military Training: Does the institution recognize and grant credit for your military training? Check the ACE Military Guide to find out how you can translate your service into school credit. If your prospective school accepts these credits, you can graduate faster and make better use of your benefits.
- Campus and Community Support: Are there dedicated resources, such as Veteran centers or support groups, to assist with your transition to academic life? Does the administration have staff and resources dedicated to the school’s Veteran population?
- Principles of Excellence: Is the school committed to the Principles of Excellence program, ensuring transparency and accountability in providing quality education to Veterans? This program ensures your school accommodates the unique needs of Veterans pursuing post-secondary education.
All of the above suggestions can help you narrow down your options to find the school that is right for you, but research and online tools do not hold all the answers. It is advised that you visit school campuses during open days. Open days provide an opportunity to engage with faculty and administrative staff and inquire about credit transfers, support services, and any other concerns pertinent to your situation.
Your military background has equipped you with commitment, discipline, and a strong desire to succeed; qualities that are highly valued in academic settings. By thoroughly researching and selecting an institution that aligns with your goals and maximizes your benefits, you can make a well-informed decision that serves as a solid foundation for your future endeavors.
