Armed Forces Educational Assistance Act of 1980

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Armed Forces Educational Assistance Act of 1980 - Authorizes the Secretary of each military department to establish an educational assistance program for persons enlisting in an armed force under such Secretary's jurisdiction. Requires the Department of Defense to bear the costs of any such program. Prohibits requiring that any person participating make any contribution to such program. Directs the Secretary of Defense to prescribe regulations for such programs taking account of the differences among the several armed forces. Requires that such programs provide that any person initially enlisting in an armed force who meets eligibility requirements established by the Secretary concerned, according to specified guidelines, become entitled to educational assistance at the time of such enlistment, with specified exceptions. Sets the period of educational assistance entitlement at one standard academic year (or the equivalent) for: (1) each year of the initial enlistment, up to four years; and (2) each year of active service, provided the person has completed at least two years active service before discharge or other release from active duty. Denies such entitlement to members dischar…