The Army has helped tens of thousands of young men and women achieve their educational goals. And for many, the Army has meant a meaningful career or an outstanding launchpad for success in the civilian workplace. Participation in any one of the following programs could mean upwards of $65,000 for your education.

Now that we have your attention, let's take a look at some of your options.

Program Snapshots

United States Military Academy

With a unique balance of scholastic, physical and military training, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point offers an elite educational experience. Boasting alumni that include some of the most distinguished figures in U.S. military history, West Point produces highly trained Army officers with a world-class education. The core academic curriculum balances sciences, liberal arts, foreign languages and ethics. With such a range of experience in both the classroom and the field, West Point graduates often go on to impressive careers in the military and civilian worlds.

A West Point cadetship includes a fully funded four-year college education. The U.S. Army provides tuition, room, board, medical and dental care. As members of the Armed Forces, cadets also receive an annual salary of more than $6,500. This pay covers the cost of uniforms, books, a personal computer and other living expenses. Upon graduation, cadets receive a Bachelor of Science degree and begin a minimum five years of service in the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer.

As you can imagine, selection for West Point is exceptionally competitive. Excellent grades, outstanding SAT or ACT scores, involvement in sports and other extracurricular activities are all prerequisites for successful applicants.

Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC)

Combine some of the best colleges and universities in the country with Army training and experience and you get ROTC. This popular program offers merit-based scholarships to thousands of students every year. As an ROTC cadet, you experience college just like any other student. You attend the same classes, live in the same dorms and unwind in the same hangouts. However, you'll also undergo additional training in physical fitness, military history and field tactics. The U.S. Army picks up the tab for tuition, books, and fees—a value of more than $70,000 at some schools. In addition, ROTC students receive a monthly stipend based on their academic year.

After graduation, you'll serve as a commissioned officer, either full-time or in the reserves. There is no military commitment for at least the first year under ROTC, so students can decide whether or not the program is right for them.

The GI Bill/Montgomery College Fund

The Army also provides a variety of other financial aid programs, the most popular of which is the Montgomery GI Bill. Full-time students can earn $9,400 for college and more than $22,000 in salary just by serving part time over a six-year enlistment period. You can also earn up to an additional $350 more per month depending on your job in the Army. Full-time soldiers can receive up to $28,800 in educational support through the G.I. Bill.

Soldiers are also entitled to the benefits of the College Loan Repayment program, which is an excellent way to defray the cost of long-term financing. Full-time soldiers can receive up to $65,000, while reservists can earn a maximum of $20,000 in order to pay off their federally insured loans. These amounts are contingent upon the length of enlistment and the soldier's Military Occupational Specialty.

Signing Bonuses

In addition, the Army is currently offering bonuses of up to $20,000 for a 4-year commitment. A two-year stint can earn you $26,500 in college benefits, plus a $4,000 bonus.

By serving in the U.S. Army or Army Reserve, you have the opportunity to earn money for school while simultaneously building valuable skills and experience�everything from digital communications to interrogation techniques. Some colleges also award class credit for military service. For more information on enlistment packages and how the Army can complement your education goals, visit www.goarmy.com.