Breaking into a new career can be tough, especially when facing an uncertain job market. Many people find that furthering their education is a key to advancement. Whether they are making the transition back to civilian life, or looking to add to their professional skill set, many military personnel already have the background to succeed in the personal training business. If you are a member of the military, or know someone who is, the good news is that veterans and those on active duty don't have to foot the bill for education alone.

Tuition assistance is available through all branches of the military which means up to the total cost of an education may be covered. The so-called Post-9/11 GI Bill is the latest development in an educational government assistance program established toward the close of Word War II. The bill more than doubled the amount of educational benefits available to veterans who have served on active duty -- in any branch of the U.S. military -- on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Support increased in the key components of the GI bill: tuition and fees, books and supplies, and housing. In addition to providing broader educational benefits, the new version includes a provision that enables enrollees to transfer their benefits to immediate family members.

Signed into law by the on June 30, 2008, the bill began payments in the summer of 2009. And while there was some delay in coordinating payments between the Veteran's Administration and colleges and universities in the early months of the offering, many of the snags have been worked out, according to the VA. The bill gives financial aid for cost of attending both public and private schools to veterans of the two wars and their families.

The bill also covers reservists and National Guard members. The veterans would be eligible for a monthly housing stipend and up to $1,000 annually for books. In order to receive the maximum benefits, a veteran must be a full-time student, typically defined as 12 credit hours per semester. Education or training programs lasting up to 36 months are eligible. The dollar amount allowed for tuition and fees is set by the individual state. This covers tuition and fees up to the amount charged by the most expensive in-state public institution of higher education in that state.

But the Post-9/11 GI Bill stands in addition to other programs still on the books that can provide assistance in continuing vocational education, or college degree programs including associate, bachelor and advanced degrees. For those looking to start their own business, there is funding available for small business and entrepreneur training. This applies to both veterans who already own businesses and to those considering establishing a business. A good starting point start is the GI Bill site, http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/programs.htm, which gives an overview of the available benefit categories.

There are a number of nationally accredited programs provide that provide students with the career-specific training necessary needed to enter the fitness profession. But not all of these are created equally, so it's important to research them thoroughly in order to assess their credentialing process, continuing education, and the acceptance of their graduates within the industry.

Many veterans and active duty personnel can qualify for one or more education benefits programs, including:

- Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)

 - Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB, Chapter 30 and Chapter 1606)

- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP, chapter 1607)

- Post Vietnam Era Veterans' Educational Assistance program (VEAP, chapter 32).

Veterans can select from a variety of programs at schools approved by the Veterans Administration (http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/Search_Programs.ht). Depending on an individual's situation, one of these programs may provide better benefits than others. There are several government agencies that can assist in making these determinations, but it is up to the applicant to do the research and make the decision.

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