As a member of the military, you have many different educational benefits. Some people believe these benefits are for after you have been discharged. While some of them are still available once you are no longer on active duty, you can take advantage of all of them while still serving. This can be a great way to earn your degree and give yourself a solid step to a good career once you leave service. Here are a few things to consider when applying to different colleges and universities.

Online/Distance Learning

There are many degrees that can be earned completely online. This allows you to obtain your degree no matter where you are stationed. You can even continue your studies if you are sent overseas or on any temporary duty assignment. If there is a class or two that requires some type of in-person learning (such as a lab science class,) make sure the in-person portion has a distance-learning option. Quite often these classes will be offered on your military installation with a proctor watching over the class. The professor will have a video camera set up in their class, streaming it into your classroom. 

Leave of Absence

Sometimes military personnel are sent to a place with very poor internet. You may also end up in a situation where your duties keep you too busy to get online and finish your courses. Make sure the school you attend offers you the ability to take a leave of absence. This allows you to stop taking the class for a specified amount of time and return to it right where you left off. You won't have to actually withdraw and start all over when you have the time and ability to continue.

Continuation as a Civilian

If you are not going to be able to finish your degree while on active duty, you need to be sure the school you are attending will honor any discounts and benefits you receive due to your military status. It is also possible to finish the one degree and then continue on to a higher degree with the same benefits. 

You may choose to get a degree that goes along with your military job or something entirely different. It is possible to leave active duty with a completely new career because of the education you pursued while serving your country. Consider all your options and take advantage of the benefits you have earned.

Reach out to online colleges for military personnel to learn more.