FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Since October 2013, the U.S. Army Tuition Assistance program has undergone changes that could impact every Soldier, both enlisted and officer.
The new TA statement of understanding includes changes to time requirements for all Soldiers and additional resources to expedite enrollment and graduation.
"First and foremost, the changes will not make a difference in the level of education Soldiers may receive using TA," said Annette Whitaker, Forts Eustis, Lee and Story education centers acting director. "Many Soldiers may not even feel the impact of the changes; however, they should be aware."
The first change made, enacted in October of last year, is the Joint Services Transcript. The JST allows Soldiers to transfer their Army training to college credits, depending on what college and degree plan they follow.
For Soldiers looking to enroll, GoArmyEd rolled out the course planner in late January. This tool allows potential students to input class codes from their student agreement into the GoArmyEd system, and a list will populate with all of the class times offered at the selected school for that course. The course planner includes online classes, as well.
The most important change was enacted at the end of March, which could make a big difference in school scheduling, explained Whitaker. Soldiers may not utilize TA until at least one year after their mandatory entry training, such as Advanced Individual Training. This does not include mandatory classes such as the Army Leadership Course.
In addition, Soldiers pursuing a master's degree may do so after the one-year waiting period. However, if they have utilized TA to pursue an undergraduate degree, they must have 10 years time in service before pursuing a master's degree. They may still pursue a master's degree through other means.
For more information concerning the new TA SOU, its programs and restrictions, Soldiers can contact the Fort Eustis education center at 878-3705.