Can I go to college and be in the District of Columbia National Guard at the same time?

Paying for College - GED Pus program information

Absolutely. Your District of Columbia National Guard service is only part time—just one weekend per month, and one two-week period each year. Not only can you attend college full time while you serve, you can even have another part-time job, if you choose to. The Guard leaves you plenty of time for all the other parts of your life, while providing the financial means to enjoy them.

How is the District of Columbia National Guard different from other military divisions?


It's our dual mission that makes us different. Unlike the other Armed Forces branches, we’re under the jurisdiction of both state and federal governments, so District of Columbia National Guard Soldiers can be deployed by either the governor of their resident state, or the president of the United States, depending on where they are needed most.


What qualifications do I have to meet to join?


Height, weight, physical fitness, age and education level are the main factors in your eligibility. Click here to learn about the guidelines for these qualities, and to see how you measure up.


Will being in the District of Columbia National Guard help me get into a better college?


Possibly. Our financial assistance packages and Education Support Center help prepare you for college—from providing funds to prepping you for entrance exams—so that when you’re ready to apply, you’re organized, your head’s in the right space and the funding is in the bank. With that kind of support behind you, everything in life gets better—including your education options.


Can you help me apply to colleges?


Definitely. Our Education Support Center is a full-service education assistance station, offering not only one-on-one help with the administrative aspects of applying, but also degree planning, distance learning options and much more.


How much money can I get for college?


Enough to pay for your tuition, expenses such as books and supplies, or to repay existing student loans. We take your education seriously, and, like you, make it a priority. From 100% Tuition Assistance, to Student Loan Repayment to the Montgomery G.I. Bill and its Kicker, our financial assistance programs virtually cover it all.

What happens if I'm deployed while I'm in college?


That varies from school to school, but most schools will work with you in some way to smooth out details of that eventuality.


What are the education prerequisites to enlist in the District of Columbia National Guard?


You must have a high school diploma or a GED. If you’re still in high school, but are thinking of enlisting when you graduate, it's never to soon to speak to a recruiter about getting started. If you left high school without your diploma, we can help you get your GED with the following program:




When and where will I serve?


The standard District of Columbia National Guard training schedule is one weekend per month, and one two-week period each year. If you are mobilized, you'll report for duty as needed. You'll train at the District of Columbia National Guard armory closest to your hometown. If you're mobilized, you'll most likely stay in your resident state for duty. However, in major emergencies, such as in Hurricane Katrina, you could be sent to another state to help. It's also possible you'll be deployed overseas, such as to the Middle East, in support of combat operations.


How can service in the District of Columbia National Guard help me with in my post-college career?


These days, a college degree doesn't guarantee a good job. Many recent grads still start out in low-paying positions. In the District of Columbia National Guard, you'll train for a job in the field of your choice, so that when you graduate from college, you'll have the experience and training you need to skip the entry-level jobs and go straight into a lucrative career. Plus, District of Columbia National Guard experience stands out on your resume, and when employers see it, they know you've got the skills they're looking for—discipline, team spirit and leadership.