A Checklist for College Students as They Begin Their Education Journey
Your College Degree “Pre-Launch” Checklist for Student Veterans
Earning your degree and launching your next career requires focus, effort, and planning. The key to success comes down to five tasks that you need to check off before you start. The following 5-item checklist will ensure you don’t waste money, time, or effort in the pursuit of your college degree.
Determine Your Career Path and Education Goals
Know what you want from your education. Setting your career goals upfront will help you to make the most of your money, time, and effort. Discover how to select your career path to achieve your career objectives.
Know Your Benefits
You need to have a deeper understanding of your GI Bill®, Military Tuition Assistance, Student Aid, ACE credits, and Scholarships before you commit to anything. Learn about the hundreds of thousands of dollars available to help you pay for your degree. Click here to get the details you need on your military and veteran benefits.
Find the College that Fits Your Career Goals
Finding the school that fits your goals, finances, scheduling, and benefits isn’t as simple as it may seem. Discover how to find the school that best meets your needs.
Verify that You and the Degree Program are GI Bill Eligible
Ensure your certificate of eligibility is completed and confirm that the degree program you have chosen has been approved by the VA for use with the GI Bill. Failing to cover these bases before enrolling can set you back and may result in lost benefits. Discover how and why this step is crucial for a successful start.
Research schools with our School Search Tool, or find your perfect fit with our School Matcher.
Launch Your Education Journey
Enrollment processes and requirements differ from school to school. Many schools may require you to take specific placement exams to determine if there is a need for remedial courses. Learn to prepare for the enrollment process.
Remember, earning your degree opens up a world of possibilities and sets you up for success. While it won’t be easy, you have already proven you have what it takes to earn your degree.
NEXT STEP: Get Started Understanding Your Career and Education Goals
RELATED:
- Know Your Education Benefits: A Checklist
- Verify GI Bill Eligibility: A Checklist
- Should Veterans Declare a Major Before Starting College?
- Choosing a School: What About For-Profit Schools
- CHECKLIST: Find the College That Fits Your Career Goals
About the author
Terry Howell is a retired Coast Guard veteran, where he served for 20 years.
He is currently the Executive Director for Veterans' Legacies, a non-profit that works to preserve veterans personal stories to help educate our youth.
Terry is also the author of The Military Advantage, an annually updated guide to military and veteran benefits.
