Student Identities Abroad: Veterans and Military-Connected Students
RMU welcomes many veterans and military-connected students to campus every year. Many of these students wish to use their veteran’s benefits towards a study abroad program. This is a fantastic way to participate in further global experiences, complementing your international experiences gained through the military.
Questions to consider with an Advisor/by yourself:
- How is the military viewed in my host country?
- What unique perspectives can I contribute towards my study abroad experience? What do I hope to gain from my study abroad experience?
- What military/family/school obligations at home do I need to consider when planning?
- Can I apply my veteran’s benefits to my study abroad program?
- Have I met with both the RMU Center for Veterans and Military Families and a study abroad advisor?
- Are there similar local VA organizations or clubs in the area I am traveling to where I could meet others?
Veteran's Benefits and Study Abroad:
- FLEAPs: GI Bill® tuition benefits cover a FLEAP's tuition. They do not cover the $3,000-$4,000 FLEAP program fee.
- Semester Abroad: The VA recently updated the requirements for applying GI Bill® tuition benefits to semester study abroad programs. We are working to figure out exactly how this affects your options as an RMU student. If you are interested in using GI Bill® tuition benefits toward a semester abroad, contact a study abroad advisor to discuss your situation.
Resources:
- The Last Continent: Follow University of South Carolina student Brooks Herring, a Navy veteran, as he describes, in mesmerizing and honest detail, his experience abroad in Australia.
- From Soldier to Student: Kaylee Tindle, an Army veteran, studies in Morocco. In this brief letter, she reflects on her reasons for wanting to study abroad.