Hi all! Although I have used this forum for a lot of advice in the past, I have finally decided to create an account. I hope I can contribute to the valuable discussion. Anyways, I am currently in the middle of a personal debate... should I use my MGIB while active-duty? I recently earned my BBA and I am interested in continuing my education. I have developed a keen interest in economics and finance, and I have applied to and been accepted to a variety of programs. Some online, some brick-and-mortar, some hybrid. So, the big question: should I use my GI bill active-duty to pursue my Master's from an expensive institution with a "good name," or use TA to pursue a similar degree from a cheap school? I have the following options: GI Bill: - MS, Commerce and Economic Development, Northeastern University - MA, International Commerce and Policy, George Mason University - MS, International Marketing Management, Boston University - MSc, Finance (major: Economic Policy), University of London - MS, Finance, Johns Hopkins University TA: - MAcc, Forensic Accounting, Florida Atlantic University - MS, Applied Economics, University of North Dakota Basically I am asking about the value of an institution with a good name. Also, please be advised that I hope to pursue my MBA following my service, therefore I do hope to save at least 16-20 GI months.
Thank you. Sorry, it appears I made two similar posts. I'm not yet familiar with the delay in posting a new thread.
This. Unless your TA has a catch that you owe back time. I never used TA but I was an officer so for me, TA had that stipulation that if I used it I would owe more years of service. I figured 8 years was enough.
Use the TA This topic is abit older, but I would go with TA. I utilized TA since I have joined the Army as a PFC (E3). When I went to OCS, I finished my BS with TA. Still deciding to use it, I used it for my MBA. As a result, I was able to transfer the Post 9/11 to my wife. I am using have the GI Bill to pay for half of the DBA. The great thing is that over the 12 years, I have not paid one penny for education (except the books for CTC - CSU is free).
The TA is definitely the way to go while on active duty. The GI Bill is good to use after you get out because you will have a lot of time to use it. This will save you a lot of money, especially if you decide on pursuing a different kind of degree later on.