3 minute read

Did you know your time in service could fast-track your college degree? Many skills you learned in the military, whether through specialized training, duty stations, or leadership roles, are eligible for academic credit at colleges across the country. 

If you are in the process of transitioning into higher education, knowing how to leverage this advantage can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s cover the key steps below. 

Step 1: Organize Your Military Transcripts

Your first step is to gather and review your military service records. The most widely accepted tool is the Joint Services Transcript (JST) for Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard veterans, or the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) transcript for the Air Force. These documents list your military schools, occupations, and completed coursework in one official record.

Most colleges use the recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE) to evaluate these transcripts. ACE reviews military training and jobs, then assigns recommended college credits based on course content and learning outcomes. You won’t get credit for everything, but you might be surprised at what counts!

Step 2: Explore Exams and Portfolio Credit

If you want to earn more credit, consider taking standardized exams. The CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) and DSST (formerly DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) cover dozens of subjects, from math to history. Consider your education and career goals, as well as the industries that offer the best job opportunities, and select exams that allow you to access the right college for your chosen path. Passing these exams is a standardized and widely accepted way to prove your knowledge and skills, so you don’t have to retake classes you’ve already mastered.

Some colleges also allow portfolio reviews, where you submit documentation and essays describing your professional and military learning. Faculty review these portfolios and sometimes award additional credit for real-life knowledge, especially if your experience is advanced or not fully covered on official transcripts.

Step 3: Verify Each College’s Credit Policy

Before enrolling, it’s crucial to check how each school treats military credit. Policies vary, and some institutions are far more flexible and military-friendly than others. Trusted online universities, such as the University of Maryland Global Campus, clearly outline transfer policies, prior learning assessments, and dedicated support services. This can help you maximize your credits, preventing wasted effort during enrollment.

Step 4: Avoid Common Transfer Pitfalls

Even with the right paperwork, some credits may be denied if they don’t fit the requirements for your chosen degree. Here’s how you can avoid the most common problems:

  • Double-check transfer guides and degree maps before committing to a program.
  • Ask if your credits apply to major requirements, not just electives.
  • Maintain a complete, up-to-date copy of all military training and certifications.
  • Before enrolling, connect with the school’s military support team. They can flag concerns and suggest options.

You might discover extra support through national networks helping veterans transition, which can make navigating the process a bit less daunting.

Start Planning Your Academic Success After Service

Turning your military expertise into college credit isn’t just possible, it’s a path many veterans now leverage to reach academic and career goals faster. As you compare colleges and programs, focus on schools that value your experience and offer clear, supportive guidance for military students. 

For more ideas on boosting your academic and professional career, explore additional education articles on our blog.