Military training includes technical instruction, leadership development and specialized coursework. ACE credit recommendations inform how JST credits are evaluated.
At ASU, military-related learning can count toward your total credits for graduation. Since programs often have unique requirements, planning and leveraging support services can be your best path to success.
“Every situation is unique, so the best thing you can do is get all your information laid out with someone who understands the process,” says Colin Sarros, senior enrollment coach for military students at ASU Online. ASU provides a comprehensive network of enrollment coaches and advisors dedicated to helping each student achieve their individual academic and career goals.
How military experience converts into college credit
Military training includes technical instruction, leadership development and specialized coursework. ACE credit recommendations inform how JST credits are evaluated.
At ASU, military-related learning can count toward your total credits for graduation. Since programs often have unique requirements, planning and leveraging support services can be your best path to success.
“Every situation is unique, so the best thing you can do is get all your information laid out with someone who understands the process,” says Colin Sarros, senior enrollment coach for military students at ASU Online. ASU provides a comprehensive network of enrollment coaches and advisors dedicated to helping each student achieve their individual academic and career goals.
How your Joint Service Transcript earns credit
Your military transcript is one of the primary ways to receive college credit for your service, and the exact process can depend on which brand you are part of. Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard use the JST, while the Air Force and Space Force use the CCAF.
ASU can request the JST on your behalf at the time of admission. Air Force and Space Force members will need to request their CCAF transcript.
Some credits may transfer directly, while others may apply as elective credit. These credits can help reduce the total number of credits needed to graduate, even if they don’t replace specific required courses in your degree plan.
Credit by examination
Another way to earn college credit is through testing.
Programs like CLEP and DANTES/DSST are available free for eligible military members. These tests allow you to demonstrate knowledge you’ve already gained through military training or independent study. Instead of taking a full course, you can earn credit by passing an exam.
This can be one of the fastest ways to move through general subject areas such as math, business and finance, especially if you already have experience in those topics. However, planning ahead is important and speaking with an academic advisor once admitted is a crucial step to ensure you take the correct tests for your specific degree plan.
Transfer college credits
Many military students already have college credits from previous institutions, whether earned before, during or after their service.
If you took college courses before or during your service, those credits may apply directly to your degree requirements.
Courses completed at accredited colleges or universities may apply directly to degree requirements, depending on the subject and your intended major. Reviewing our transfer guide is a great place to start.
How military credits apply to your degree
One of the most important things to understand is that not all credits apply in the same way. Military and transfer credits can:
- Count toward your total credits needed to graduate
- Apply as elective credit
- Fulfill specific course requirements
How to maximize your GI Bill® benefits
Your GI Bill benefits can cover a significant portion and potentially all of your degree, making the most of your benefits begins with understanding your options.
Sarros says the best first step is to talk through your situation before making decisions.
“Connect with a military enrollment coach — we’ll guide you through everything,” he says.
Working with an enrollment coach can help you:
- Understand how your military experience translates to credit
- Choose the right combination of transfer credits and testing
- Build a plan that aligns with your degree goals
- Avoid wasting time or benefits on courses that won’t help meet degree requirements
Military service can give you a strong head start on your degree — but the key is knowing how to use that experience effectively.
By combining military transcripts, testing and prior college coursework, you can create a path that saves time, reduces costs and moves you closer to graduation.
The most effective way to begin is with a conversation and a clear plan built around your goals.
Ready to get started?
Arizona State University is proud to support military students. When you enroll online at ASU, you'll join nearly 11,000 military-affiliated students pursuing their degrees as of 2026.
A range of degree programs can help service members apply their experience and prior learning, including:
Project Management, MS
Electrical Engineering, BS
Mechanical Engineering, BS
Business (Global Logistics Management), BA
Emergency Management and Homeland Security, BS
Geographic Information Science, BS
ASU ranks No. 3 for best online bachelor's programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report according to U.S. News & World Report, 2026. The university is committed to helping you succeed with flexible online programs, dedicated military support services and recognition of your military training.
Your service has prepared you for success. Let ASU help you take the next step.
Visit ASU Online's military admissions page for more information, or contact the military enrollment team at 866-ASU-ONLINE or militaryonline@asu.edu.