The Ohio National Guard is a unique part-time force of the U.S. Army. Soldiers serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year. The National Guard is mobilized during times of war, national emergencies, and serves our state and local communities during emergencies and times of need. In addition to all the benefits listed below, soldiers develop a great passion and love for our country, leadership abilities, work ethic, teamwork and dedication that translates into skills employers� desire.

• Pay: Soldiers are paid for serving one weekend a month. Entry-level pay is approximately $250 per month.
• 100 Percent Tuition: The Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program pays 100 percent college tuition to state-assisted institutions.
• Montgomery G.I. Bill (Reserve): Soldiers receive $336 per month while attending college. Money sent directly to soldiers for college and living expenses.
• Montgomery G.I. Bill (MGIB) Kicker (Reserve): Soldiers receive an extra $200 per month to supplement to Montgomery G.I. Bill for enlisting in a critical skills job.
• Student Repayment Program: Soldiers can have up to $50,000 of existing student loans, as well as student loan acquired after enlisting paid-off.
• ROTC/Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP): Allows ROTC cadets to serve as members in the National Guard while in college and receive National Guard benefits and pay. As an SMP, the MGIB Kicker increases to $350 per month.
• Health Insurance: Soldiers may purchase a premium based health insurance plan. Individual coverage is $47.51 per month, and family coverage is $180.17 a month.
• Life Insurance: Soldiers receive up to $400,000 life insurance at reduced cost.
• Split Option Program: Allows high school and college students to enlist without interrupting their education. Soldiers start by attending basic training during the summer, return to resume school while training one weekend a month at RSP and then complete their job specialty training the following summer. This option is also available to seasonal workers.