What is SOCGUARD?
SOCGUARD serves as a link between the higher education community and the Army National Guard in support of the Guard's voluntary education needs. SOCGUARD campus briefings, workshops, and other activities help forge partnerships in education and promote cooperation between post-secondary institutions and the Army National Guard to enhance education opportunities for Guard members.

Can I get college credit for my experience in the Army National Guard?
Yes, your first step is obtain an AARTS Transcript, which is a complete record of your military training and educational experiences. It may be obtained at the Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System website.

I heard a fully eligible soldier for the Post 9/11 GI Bill can go to Berkeley College for 100% of tuition and fees paid. Is this true?
Yes! As a member of the National Guard who is fully eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill, combined with Berkeley College's participation in the Yellow Ribbon program, all your tuition and fees will be paid for by the Veterans Administration. In addition, you will receive a monthly housing allowance equal to an E5 in the zip code of the College and receive a stipend of $1,000 per year for textbooks.

What can I study?
Members of the National Guard can enroll in any academic program offered at Berkeley College at any location.

Can I get financial assistance for my studies?
Absolutely! If you were attracted to the National Guard by the Post 9/11 GI Bill, tuition assistance, or other educational funding opportunities, don't delay! Begin your college studies now. The National Guard will pay a substantial part or even all of the tuition costs for courses you take. For details, ask a Berkeley College counselor.

How do I begin as a National Guard student?
Your first step is to contact Berkeley College at military@BerkeleyCollege.edu or 1-800-446-5400 ext. WRE, and our counselors will explain the program to you.

What happens if I am deployed for service while in the middle of a quarter?
At Berkeley College, we do not punish a National Guard member for being deployed. How your courses will be handled depends on how much time is remaining in your classes. If you are nearly complete with only a week or two remaining, you can complete your courses online and submit work via email to your professor and receive a grade for the course. If you are deployed early in the quarter and will be unable to complete the courses, you will be marked as withdrawn. At no time will you fail a course for being deployed.

Do I have to reapply to Berkeley College after returning from a deployment?
No, you are still a Berkeley College student. Upon your return all you will need to do is meet with your advising office to change back to active student status and then register for classes.

What if I leave the National Guard before graduating?
If you leave the National Guard before you complete your degree requirements you are still eligible for your benefits and can continue your studies.