Marching to College: Exploring Military-Connected Students’ Access Experiences Navigating College Choice

This study analyzed how pre-college advising and transition experiences impact the postsecondary success of military-connected students (MCS). Each year, approximately 200,000 military veterans transition to civilian life, with around 40% seeking higher education. Despite the financial support of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, MCS face unique challenges in accessing and succeeding in higher education, including restrictive admissions policies, unclear credit transfer processes, and insufficient pre-college advising. Through a case study approach, this study explores the college transition experiences of MCS and the role of pre-college advising in supporting these transitions. Data were collected via surveys and interviews, focusing on the participants' educational experiences, interactions with college admissions, and the impact of advising on their academic journeys. Findings reveal three major themes: the role of military service as a pathway to college, limited military-friendly language in educational materials, and inadequate advising support. These insights underscore the need for targeted research and tailored support systems to enhance MCS' educational experiences and outcomes.