When do officers get tuition assistance?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 22:42:23 -0500

I'm trying to figure how long after BOLC Army officers get GI Bill and Tuition Assistance. Any idea? I'm starting graduate school in January, but go to BOLC 31 May.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2015 11:43 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 23:43:34 -0500

You may want to wait till you get to your duty station, then head to the education center. But my understanding is that officers will incur additional service obligation when using TA.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2015 3:29 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 03:29:52 -0500

Montgomery GI Bill-Select Reserve (MGIB-SR): If you have signed up for at least a six-year hitch, have a high school diploma, and have completed your initial active duty for training, the MGIB-SR may pay for you to go to school for up to 36 months. Your benefits end once you leave the Reserves.
As far as TA is concerned you can read through AR 621–5, but the only requirement I found was that you are a satisfactory participant. You register yourself for TA through the goarmyed website.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Dec 17 at 2015 9:26 AM

COL Vincent Stoneking — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 09:26:37 -0500

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member covered the essentials. If I recall correctly, you agree to stay in the reserves for some minimal additional commitment to qualify for the MGIB-SR.

It is worth noting that TA can only be used for your first degree at a given level (AA, BA, MA). If I understand current policy correctly, it cannot be used for doctoral-level degree programs. That is policy, not law, but I don't see it changing anytime soon.