The Louisiana Army National Guard pays for college, provides monthly income, and builds real-world skills — while you finish your degree at LSU. One weekend a month. Two weeks a year.
You serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year — the Guard pays for the rest of your education and puts money in your pocket while you do it.
Louisiana Guard members qualify for the Louisiana National Guard Tuition Exemption Program — covering tuition at all Louisiana public colleges and universities, including LSU.
Stack your benefits with up to $4,500 per year in federal tuition assistance on top of state programs. Use it for books, fees, or additional coursework.
Earn paid income every month for your weekend drill. Pay increases with rank and time in service — many E-3/E-4 soldiers earn $500–$700 per drill weekend.
Access to TRICARE and military dental plans for you and eligible family members at a fraction of civilian insurance costs.
Depending on your MOS (job) and qualifications, you may be eligible for cash enlistment bonuses paid upon completion of training. Ask your recruiter for current offers.
Leadership, logistics, communications, medical, engineering — military training translates directly to civilian careers and gives you an edge employers notice.
Combined, a Guard soldier attending LSU can receive more than $15,000 in education benefits per year — often covering the full cost of attendance.
Estimates based on current benefit rates. Exact amounts depend on MOS, rank, and eligibility. Ask your recruiter for current rates.
Already in-state? See the full breakdown of benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to start the process from Louisiana.
Coming from out of state? The Guard offers in-state tuition rates, federal benefits, and a clear path to Louisiana residency.
Not sure which path applies to you? Reach out directly. No commitment required — just a conversation about your goals and options.
The process is straightforward. Your recruiter walks every step with you — from first conversation to shipping day.
Call, text, or email SFC Reagan or SFC Rayburn below. The first conversation is no commitment, no pressure — just information about your options and eligibility.
Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine job eligibility, then complete a standard military physical at MEPS. Your recruiter schedules everything.
Based on your ASVAB scores and available openings, select your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) — your military job. Options range from intelligence and cyber to medical, aviation, and engineering.
Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT, ~10 weeks) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for your MOS. Most soldiers complete this during summer or between semesters.
Once training is complete, you return to campus. Your tuition exemption activates, drill pay begins, and you serve one weekend a month with your local unit.
Reach out directly. We're here Monday through Friday and will get back to you same day.