Does military service look good on a college application?
Asked by: Dr. Zachery Cummings | Last update: October 29, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (22 votes)
Military service demonstrates teamwork, problem-solving, work ethic, and responsibility. It can also equip you with specialized knowledge or skills, depending on your training and area of expertise. These are factors that can help your essay or other college application materials stand out, no matter where you apply.
Does being in the military look good for college?
Enlisting in the military can indeed be seen as a strong point on your college application. Many universities appreciate the unique experiences, maturity, leadership skills, and discipline that military service can provide. However, remember that colleges look at the totality of your application, so it's still sig.
Does military service look good on a CV?
Yes, including military experience on your resume is beneficial, especially if it relates to the job you are applying for. Highlight transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Tailor the description to match the job requirements. For more resume tips, visit my Quora Profile!
Does the military help with college?
Each branch of the military offers college scholarships to eligible students. They also pay for books and fees and provide stipends. Accepting this scholarship requires you to serve in the military. After college graduation, a graduate will begin a career as a commissioned officer.
Should I join the military or go to college first?
Enlisting in the Military First: Benefits: Choosing the military first enables you to acquire valuable experience, discipline, and skills that can be beneficial in college and beyond. Certain military branches offer tuition assistance or GI Bill benefits to aid in paying for college after your service.
Admissions Tips: Undergraduate Admissions for Veterans
Does being in the military make it easier to get into college?
Regardless of which branch you have served, your military background can help to distinguish and strengthen your application. In fact, not only can military experience help you get into college — it may also allow you to graduate faster.
Can I join the military then go to college?
Yes! However, this journey significantly differs from the conventional college experience. Balancing a college education with a military career is no small feat. Still, success hinges on strategic planning and choosing the right educational path.
How much does the military pay a month?
As of Jan 21, 2025, the average monthly pay for a Military Soldier in California is $2,098 a month.
How many years of military service for free college?
To qualify for full educational benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, individuals must serve at least 36 months in the military.
Which military branch has the best college benefits?
The Army is the largest U.S. military branch and offers some of the best benefits for veterans and active duty soldiers. The Army provides the Green to Gold program, which allows soldiers to earn a four-year or two-year degree while working towards commissioned officer status.
How do you list military service on a CV?
If your military experience is relevant to the job you're applying for, treat it like any other position. Include the dates you served, the positions you held, and examples of your responsibilities and accomplishments, ideally using figures, percentages, and data to quantify your achievements.
What does an attractive CV look like?
Tips for writing your CV
use a clear font like Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri in size 11 or bigger. always use the same style throughout. use headings and bullet points to make it easier to read. be clear and to the point.
What should I not put on my CV?
The CV should be professional and should include your important data. Don't include the following information. These things are not necessary: age; ethnic identity; political affiliation; religious preference; hobbies; marital status; sexual orientation; place of birth; photographs; height; weight and health.
What college degree is best for military?
- Strategic Intelligence. ...
- Criminal Justice. ...
- Management Information Systems (MIS) ...
- Political Science. ...
- Healthcare - Nursing, Biology, Radiology. ...
- Philosophy. ...
- Psychology. ...
- Theology (military chaplains)
Is it smart to join military?
There are many types of jobs in the military, and with the abundance of training provided, your service member is almost certain to earn promotions and advance their military career. Even after the military, service members have their training to rely on to help them find a job.
Does military look at GPA?
Your college GPA is considered valuable by the military, particularly if you're considering being an officer or going through any of the officer candidate schools or programs. In the context of admissions for Officer Candidate Schools (OCS) or Officer Training Schools (OTS), higher GPAs can be more competitive.
Is joining the military worth it for college?
The Military offers many educational benefits that service members can take advantage of during or after service. From financial aid and college funds to loan repayment programs, there have never been more ways for service members to afford and further their education.
Does the military pay you?
The pay for active duty service members is made up of basic pay, allowances for meals, and housing expenses. Some service members also receive special pay because of their job or their working conditions. Learn more about the types of pay that service members receive.
What branch of the military should I join?
Primarily, you should consider the career opportunities each branch provides, location and lifestyle, educational benefits, and the overall mission of the branch. For example, if you're interested in aviation or maritime operations, the Navy or the Air Force might be particularly appealing.
Which military pays the most?
Which military branch pays the most? All branches of the U.S. military offer the same base pay based on rank and years of service. However, other factors can impact a military member's pay, including: Special pay: Some service members receive additional pay based on their job specialty or tasks performed.
What job makes the most money?
- Obstetrician and Gynecologist. #1 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Psychiatrist. #2 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Emergency Medicine Physician. #3 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Orthodontist. #4 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Anesthesiologist. #5 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. #6 in Best-Paying Jobs. ...
- Radiologist. ...
- Pilot.
What happens if you join the military after college?
The benefits of joining the military after college
A guaranteed job after college. A leadership role at a young age. Higher pay than joining as an enlisted military member. Greater opportunities for promotion and training.
How much does the Air Force pay?
The average U.S. Air Force salary ranges from approximately $34,000 per year for Firefighter to $138,127 per year for Lieutenant. Average U.S. Air Force hourly pay ranges from approximately $13.55 per hour for Guest Service Agent to $35.42 per hour for Aircraft Mechanic Supervisor.