Student Enrollment Procedures & Tips

Follow the Voluntary Education (VolEd) student enrollment procedures listed below to help guide you on your education journey based on your goals.

  • Discuss your goals with an education counselor and determine a strategy to meet your long-term objectives. Contact your Service education counselor for assistance.
  • Begin researching properly accredited colleges or universities offering a program that best meets your education objectives. You can use the TA DECIDE program to start looking and comparing schools that accept tuition assistance (TA).
  • Compare and investigate different colleges or universities before making your final decision.
  • Work with your selected institution's academic advisor to develop a degree plan or program of study outlining your education path.
  • Examine your course descriptions and verify that the selected course or degree will meet your needs and can be transferred or accepted toward follow-on degrees.
  • Understand your Services' Tuition Assistance (TA) program. You have responsibilities and Service requirements when using TA.
  • Follow your Services' VolEd instructions about enrollment procedures, payment, TA responsibilities, and any other Service-unique requirements to get started.

Here are some tips for success in school:

  • Contact a Services education counselor for assistance with getting started, accessing programs, and to resolve issues that may arise while in school.
  • Prepare! Preparation can be key to a successful educational experience:
    • Access free study material for CLEP and DSST exams on the College Credit-by-Exam webpage.
    • Use no-cost programs such as Kuder Journey to prepare for college and career planning.
  • Learn about no-cost education benefits that are available to help you save time and money while pursuing your degree.
  • Know that education resources are available for you when serving overseas. Whether you are stationed or deployed overseas, access to education benefits and schools are available.