I have some questions

I'm not in the military yet so I can't comment on what life is like in the military other than as a spouse of a marine. I'm currently in the process of applying for the NCP (nurse candidate program) with the Navy. Perhaps you could look into that program.

You must be accepted into a BSN program to apply but you receive a bonus and monthly stipend during school. It is very competitive and takes a while to process! Good luck :)

First off, you need atleast a BSN to be commissioned. Each branch has it's own pro's and con's depending on what kind of lifestyle you are looking for. In any branch of the military you will be expected to deploy and the deployment tempos vary greatly depending on the branch, your specialty, and your location. If I were you and I were serious about joining I would look into getting my BSN asap and talk to a couple of different health profession recruiters from different branches to find out which you would have the best chance of getting in to and which one will fit you lifestyle better.

First, a few things to consider:

1. The military is extremely competitive right now, especially for new grads. Most branches are full to bursting and looking to downsize, so unless you're an experienced supernurse, you will likely need to work civilian side first before applying to make yourself competitive.

2. Do not enter the military because you're looking for reimbursement for school. Unless you're really interested in doing the military life, it isn't worth the money.

3. Your initial training varies by branch. Deployments and locations also vary by branch. In addition to nursing, you will be charged with "collateral duties", which may or may not have anything to do with medicine. (For instance, you may be charged with planning the annual dining in event on top of doing all of your normal duties during work hours).

4. Branch is up to you--you need to do some research.

5. You need to have a BSN minimally.

6. All RNs in the military are commissioned. The military still takes enlistees and makes them into LPNs, but that isn't going to be your best route as you're already looking at a BSN.

As SoldierNurse said, it wouldn't be wise to get into Military nursing just for the fact they pay for school after your BSN. (and the commission of course) I was enlisted for 5 years in the Navy and I have to tell you... you'll be in for a culture shock. Its a different life style and its something you have to get use to. My first two years were difficult but slowly progressing into the third and final years I came to enjoy it. Please note though that everyone has their dislikes and likes about it. Not everyone can adjust and they end up getting out ASAP.

But getting back to my personal experience, I enjoyed it and miss it. The only reason im out now is so I could go to school full time and get a commission back in as a nurse. The cost reimbursements for school is just a benefit, not the sole reason im going back to it.

I apologize in advance, I know your question isn't just asking about financial assistance for school. Just giving my two cents.