Differences in the Perception of Educational Benefits between Male and Female Veterans in the United States: A National Study

Abstract: Following their military service, veterans in the United States are eligible to take advantage of federally guaranteed educational benefits. These benefits would certainly enhance the academic skills and potential employability of veterans. As such, information is needed regarding their perceptions of educational benefits and the degree to which differences might be present as a function of gender. In this study, archival data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.), National Survey of Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, Demobilized National Guard, and Reserve Members, Family Members, and Surviving Spouses were analyzed to determine whether male and female veterans differed with respect to the level of importance they assigned to educational benefits. A statistically significant difference was yielded between male and female veterans related to the importance they assigned to their educational benefits. Female veterans who were surveyed regarded educational benefits as being more important to meeting their educational goals or obtaining better employment, when compared to male veterans. One important recommendation for practitioners is that academic advisors, career counselors, and college administrators should consider these results when offering guidance to male veterans who may view educational benefits as less important in comparison to female veterans.