Air National Guard for College & Career Success

The Air National Guard is a reserve component of the U.S. Air Force with a dual mission. Members serve under both state and federal authority, which means they can be activated by the President or their state’s governor.

Most Guard members serve part-time, attending drill one weekend a month and participating in training for two weeks each year. This structure allows students to stay enrolled in college while fulfilling military duties.

Benefits of Joining the Air National Guard

Top benefits of joining the Air National Guard include:

• Tuition assistance covering up to 100% at many public colleges and universities
• Monthly drill pay with opportunities for bonuses and promotions
• Montgomery GI Bill and potential Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits
• State-specific education programs and tuition waivers
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for qualifying roles)
• Technical training and certifications in fields like aviation, maintenance, and IT
• Leadership development through military training and career experience
• Access to Air Force ROTC scholarships and officer commissioning pathways
• Flexible, part-time service that allows full-time college attendance

Who is Eligible to Join the Air National Guard?

To enlist in the Air National Guard, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Be between 17 and 39 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Meet physical fitness standards
• Pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
• Pass a medical exam and background check

Some education programs require a minimum GPA, full-time enrollment, or commitment to specific career paths.

What is the Service Commitment?

Air National Guard members typically commit to:

• Six years of active drilling status
• Two additional years in the Inactive Ready Reserve
• One weekend of training per month and two weeks per year

Officer programs, such as ROTC or Officer Training School (OTS), may require additional service after commissioning.

Should you join the Air National Guard?

The Air National Guard is a smart option for students who wish to pursue higher education while remaining close to home. Unlike active duty service, the Guard allows you to stay enrolled in college full-time and serve part-time in your state. 

Many students use the Guard to reduce or eliminate college debt, gain career-ready training, and develop leadership skills that transfer well to civilian jobs. For those planning a future in the military or public service, the Guard offers a clear path to advancement while maintaining flexibility.

By joining, you can earn valuable benefits while building a résumé that stands out, without putting your education or civilian goals on hold.

Interested in the Air National Guard? Here's How to Get Started

Students interested in joining the Air National Guard should:

1. Contact a local Air National Guard recruiter to review eligibility and available roles.
2. Research state-specific tuition programs and federal benefits.
3. Explore colleges with strong support for service members.
4. Compare ROTC and officer track options if commissioning is a goal.

Air National Guard FAQs 

Can I join the Air National Guard while I’m still in college?
Yes. Many students enlist in the Air National Guard while attending college full-time. The part-time service structure lets you to stay enrolled and potentially complete your degree.

Does the Air National Guard cover all college tuition?
It depends on your state and service commitment. Some states offer full tuition coverage at public colleges, while others provide partial assistance. You may also qualify for federal programs like the Montgomery GI Bill or Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Will I be deployed if I join the Air National Guard?
Deployment is possible but not guaranteed. The Guard’s primary mission is to serve at the state level, but members can be called to federal duty in times of national emergency or overseas operations.

The Air National Guard vs. the Air Force Reserve
Both are part-time components of the U.S. Air Force. But, the Air National Guard operates under both state and federal control, whereas the Reserve operates strictly under federal control. This means the Guard can be activated by a state governor for local emergencies.

Can I become an officer through the Air National Guard?
Yes. You can apply for Air Force ROTC, attend Officer Training School (OTS), or commission through other programs, depending on your education and career goals. Officer tracks often include additional service obligations.