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A military-friendly school is one that actively seeks to support current service members and their families. These online colleges and universities offer a variety of benefits and provide specific services, such as health services and counseling, that speak to the unique needs of military personnel. Military-friendly schools also provide financial assistance to military service members and offer supplemental types of aid. These schools may also grant college credit for previous work and military experience. Whether active duty, veteran, or spouse, these benefits allow individuals to prepare for their careers with a support system that understands their lifestyle and military responsibilities. Students that aren’t actively enrolled can still find the best schools for military veterans that offer support in similar ways.
Benefits of a Military-Friendly College
Members of the military (active duty and veteran alike) often choose to continue their education and pursue degrees — either during their service or afterward.
There are many reasons for service members to attend college, such as to improve job opportunities, pursue a passion, take advantage of the military’s education benefits, and advance a career.
A 2020 report by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that in 2015-2016 about 6% of undergraduate students were veterans, active-duty service members, or in the reserves or the National Guard.
A large portion of these students took advantage of military benefits.
The report also found that 36% of military graduate students and 43% of military undergraduates received some form of veterans’ education benefits.
Education benefits offered to military members can help increase their return on investment and make pursuing a degree more affordable.
How to Choose an Online Military-Friendly College
The best online colleges for military students offer affordability, online learner resources, and support. But how should you compare online schools for military service members and veterans? This section discusses the factors to consider when choosing an online college as a veteran or military student.
Cost
The cost of an online degree can vary greatly. In 2020-2021, the average cost of tuition at public four-year institutions was $9,375. In-state, public colleges offer the most affordable tuition rates, while private colleges tend to cost the most.
In addition to tuition and fees, degree-seekers must consider technology costs, books, supplies and other expenses. Online students can potentially save money on commuting and transportation costs. When comparing online colleges, research the total program cost.
Accreditation
Military students should always choose an accredited college. Accredited institutions meet high standards for educating students. They also demonstrate strong student learning outcomes and faculty qualifications. Only students attending accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid programs.
In addition to institutional accreditation, some programs also hold specialized accreditation, particularly in business, education, social work, and healthcare. The same accrediting agencies evaluate online programs and on-campus programs.
Veteran and Military Programs and Services
Military-friendly colleges offer programs and services for active duty service members, veterans, and other students associated with the military. Many online students can access these supports virtually.
When researching online colleges, look for information about military and veteran services. These may include military and veteran advisors who can help applicants register for classes and find resources. Many schools’ military education benefits also include counseling and student life programs designed for military service members and veterans.
Finally, students may also benefit from peer advisor or peer mentorship programs.
Major and Degree Offerings
Some students choose a major before even applying to schools. These learners should consider colleges that have strong programs in their desired areas of study.
Others enter college without a clear idea of what they want to major in. These students can benefit from applying to online colleges that offer majors in diverse fields.
Before applying to online colleges, research each institution’s degree options, graduation requirements, and offered concentrations.
Online Learning Format
Online colleges provide a variety of enrollment options for military students. Learners can enroll full-time or part-time, depending on their schedule. Many online schools also offer accelerated programs. These programs help degree-seekers graduate in less time.
Some online schools operate on a traditional semester calendar, while others offer up to six shorter terms per year. And course options include synchronous and asynchronous classes. Consider your schedule and needs to find the right learning format for you.
Transfer Credits
Many military service members and veterans enter college with transfer credits. That’s because many schools offer credit for military training and experience.
When comparing schools, make sure to check their policies on military service credit and transfer credit. The application process may differ for transfer students because they are not typically required to submit standardized test scores. An admission counselor can walk you through the transfer credit and application process.
Student Support
Online students can benefit from support services throughout their studies. Student services may include enrollment advising, financial aid counseling, and academic advising. Many colleges also provide internship programs and mentorship opportunities.
Career services support can include virtual job fairs, career assessments, mock interviews, and resume reviews. These resources help learners complete their degrees and transition into the workforce. Research online student services at different colleges to learn more.
Benefits of Online Military Friendly Schools
For military members and veterans, online college classes could be a strategic way to work toward a degree. Here are some potential benefits of online studies:
- Financial aid. Military financial aid isn’t just for on-campus students. Online college students can take advantage of these benefits too.
- Flexible schedules. Life in the military can be demanding. You may need a college that lets you engage with coursework at a different time each week. Online schools often provide 24/7 access to course materials so that you can complete your assignments whenever you’re available.
- Generous transfer policies. Online colleges often cater to adults with work experience. They sometimes grant college credit for the things people have already learned on the job. That can include experience gained through military service.
- Military student support. Although online students don’t go to campus, they may still have access to a wide variety of college programs and services. At a military-friendly online school, that might include virtual support groups, tutoring, career counseling, and financial aid guidance.
- Vast networks. Some colleges maintain networks of military alumni. Because online colleges attract students from all over the country, the alumni network may be extensive and diverse.
Accredited online colleges offer robust educational opportunities, so you might consider signing up for an online program.
Military Friendly Online Colleges Admissions Requirements
As a military member, your college application may look a little different than other students’ admissions materials. Here’s what you might turn in:
- Application form
- Joint Services Transcript
- School transcripts—from high school and any colleges you’ve been to
- Standardized test scores (only required by some schools)
Some colleges offer online or in-person admissions events especially for military members. That could be a strategic opportunity to get your questions answered and learn more about what a school has to offer.
Accreditation
The most credible military friendly colleges online hold regional accreditation. You can check out a school’s accreditation status by visiting the US Department of Education’s website.
Regional accreditation tells you that a school adheres to certain high-quality standards, educating students effectively and operating according to reliable principles. Accredited coursework is often transferrable, so if you choose to switch schools, your past credits might go with you. Also, an accredited degree might help you qualify for a graduate program.
Becoming a military officer usually requires holding an accredited bachelor’s degree. Civilian jobs may require accredited degrees too.
Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers online degree programs for students in the military. U.S. News & World Report ranked ASU #4 for best online bachelor’s programs for veterans. ASU features multiple start dates and asynchronous classes. Students can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees. Areas of study offered include electrical engineering, forensic psychology, and global security.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Averett University
Averett University’s online degree programs are flexible to help fit into military students’ busy schedules. Many programs are offered in an accelerated format, and there are five start dates offered throughout the year. Students can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees in a variety of subjects. Areas of study offered include leadership studies, computer information systems, and education.
Averett University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Colorado State University
Colorado State University offers support to its military students by helping them figure out transfer credits and guiding them to the right courses for their programs. Students can earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees online. Courses are fully online or blended with synchronous and asynchronous options. Areas of study offered include anthropology, agricultural sciences, aerospace engineering, and political science.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Drexel University
Drexel University is a Yellow Ribbon school, which means it pays tuition for eligible veterans. The school also provides extra support and mentoring for veteran students. Drexel offers over 150 online programs. Many are fully online and all run on a quarter schedule. Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees online. Areas of study offered include creative writing and software engineering.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
George Washington University
George Washington University is a Yellow Ribbon school that offer free tuition to eligible veterans. The school also has veteran support services in place to help students be successful. GWU has over 100 online programs. Students can earn associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. Fields of study offered include management, publishing, and biomedical informatics.
George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University has been named a Military Friendly school for the past ten years. The school offers fee waivers, benefits, and resources for active-duty military, veterans, and their families. Georgia Southern offers online undergraduate and graduate degree programs made to fit busy schedules. Fields of study offered include world languages and cultures, respiratory therapy, and instructional technology.
Georgia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Indiana University – Bloomington
Indiana University—Bloomington has been serving military students since the early 1800s. The school’s Center for Veteran and Military Students offers help and resources for current students and their families. IU offers over 100 online programs. Many are fully online. Students can pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees in fields like applied science, music technology, and more.
Indiana University – Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Lamar University
Military students at Lamar University may be eligible for tuition assistance. The school also offers other resources for military students, including fee waivers and dedicated support systems to help them make the transition to students. The school offers several online degrees that military students may be able to earn credit for because of their experience. These include studies in criminal justice and international studies.
Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers several benefits for its online military students, including certain discounts and benefits when taking approved online courses.
LU’s staff supports military students to help them be successful. Students can earn undergraduate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees through the schools 8 week, online courses. The school offers 8 start dates a year. Areas of study offered include aviation, cybersecurity, and homeland security.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University has been named a military-friendly school by several organizations. NC State offers flexibility and resources for military students and their busy schedules. The school offers over 100 online programs for undergraduate, master’s, or doctorate degrees. Areas of study offered include aerospace engineering and public sector leadership.
North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University provides its military students with benefits, resources, and services to help them be successful while at college. Military students may be eligible for fee waivers, tuition assistance, and more. Students can follow traditional or personalized online formats to earn undergraduate or graduate degrees in fields like global business and paramedic care.
Northern Arizona University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
At Northwestern State University of Louisiana, military students and eligible dependents pay a reduced tuition rate. Students may be able to earn credits for their training or test for certain credits. NSU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degree programs. Some programs are fully online. Areas of study offered include unified public safety administration and homeland security.
The Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Purdue University
Purdue University’s online program allows military students to earn credit for eligible training experiences. Students may also be eligible for reduced tuition, and Purdue offers special services and resources for military members. Many programs are fully online and asynchronous. Students can pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in fields like civil engineering and veterinary nursing.
Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Regent University
Regent University is a Christian college with several awards naming it a military-friendly college. Dedicated mentors are available to help military students through every step of the application process. Regent offers 8 week, online courses and eight start times per year. Students can choose from online undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields like law and national security and Christian discipleship.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University has served military students for over 80 years. The school offers eligible students discounted tuition for online programs. Students may also be eligible for up to 90 transfer credits. Online courses are 8 to 10 weeks long, and many are fully online. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are offered in fields such as engineering and health.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.
Syracuse University
Syracuse University helped to create the original G.I. Bill in 1944 and has been a leading supporter of military students since. Military students can receive multiple avenues of support from benefits, scheduling, and resources. The school offers online degree programs for associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Fields of study offered include creative leadership and applied data science.
Syracuse University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University is committed to helping its military and veteran students successfully make the transition from service to academia. Newsweek ranked TTU the number one online university in the country. Students can earn undergraduate or graduate degrees online, and many of these programs’ courses are fully online. Fields of study offered include political science, instructional technology, and agribusiness.
Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University has counselors and other resources to help military students obtain benefits and optimize their schedules. Students may be eligible for tuition discounts and transfer credits. Online programs start every month. Students can earn associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees in fields like homeland security, entrepreneurship, or cloud computing.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of Alabama
The University of Alabama was named a gold-ranked Top 10 Military Friendly school and is a Yellow Ribbon school. UA offers special services for military students, including advising, tuition help, and tutoring. Online programs are either fully online or offered in a hybrid format. Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees online. Fields of study offered include advertising and nursing.
The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona was ranked one of the best online programs for veterans by U.S. News & World Report. Students may be eligible for benefits to help them with their education. The school offers over 150 programs that are fully online. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in fields like cyber operations and entrepreneurship.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Central Florida
U.S. News & World Report named the University of Central Florida one of the best online bachelor’s programs for veterans. Military students are paired with success coaches to help them maximize their benefits. Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees. Many programs are asynchronous and fully online. Fields of study offered include aerospace engineering and psychology.
The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Maine
The University of Maine has a veteran’s services office in place to help students understand their benefits and find resources. Military students may be eligible for additional benefits.
The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that can be earned online. Online classes follow the school’s semester schedule, though a few summer sessions are also offered. Fields of study offered include surveying engineering technology, nursing, and spatial informatics.
The University of Maine is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus allows military students to earn degrees faster by transferring service for credits. Military students may be eligible for other benefits and resources as well.
The school offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees that can be earned online or in a hybrid format. There are multiple start dates offered each year. Popular fields of study offered include joint military strategy and accounting.
University of Maryland Global Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of Massachusetts – Global
The University of Massachusetts—Global is dedicated to helping military students get a quality education. UMass Global works with students to help them get the most out of their benefits and resources. Students can earn undergraduate or graduate degrees online. The school offers multiple start dates a year and flexible scheduling. Fields of study offered include legal studies and business analytics.
UMass Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.
University of Nebraska – Lincoln
The University of Nebraska—Lincoln has a variety of support systems in place to help military students claim benefits, find resources, and achieve success at college. UNL offers online undergraduate and graduate programs for military students, including degree completion programs. Fields of study offered include applied science, engineering management, and professional journalism.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota offers several services to help military students get the most out of their college experience. Advisors are available to help students with scheduling. Tutors are also available. Online students can choose from self-paced or semester-based programs for undergraduate or graduate degrees in fields like aerospace sciences or chemical engineering.
The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia is one of only six Senior Military Colleges in the country. The school’s Corps of Cadets seeks to prepare students for leadership roles. Students can choose between two tracks: a military track or a civilian track. UNG currently offers only one online program: a BS in Political Science.
UNG is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Utah
The University of Utah has many special services for military students and veterans. It offers quite a few resources, including advising and tutoring. There are also many veterans-only benefits. The University of Utah aims to provide its online students with the same quality education its on-campus students receive. Students can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees online in fields such as economics or legal studies.
The University of Utah is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
University of Wisconsin – Madison
The University of Wisconsin—Madison offers support for military students, including helping them maximize state and federal benefits. Students may be able to earn credits for their military experience. UW—Madison’s online programs are designed to be flexible for busy schedules. Online students can earn bachelor’s degrees in one of seven subjects, including marketing or nursing.
The University of Wisconsin – Madison is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your College Degree Online
Post-9/11 G.I. Bill:
This section of the G.I. Bill is designed for veterans who have entered active-duty since Sept. 10, 2001. Eligible candidates include personnel with a total of 90 active-duty service days since 9/11, as well as those who have been honorably discharged or received a service-connected disability after 30 days of active-duty service. The Post-9/11 provisions include two benefits programs that reduce out-of-pocket costs for military students. Schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon program will ‘match’ G.I. Bill tuition payments by contributing 50% of the overall benefits; currently, the maximum G.I. Bill payout for Yellow Ribbon recipients is $21,084.89 per year. The Transfer of Entitlement program also enables military students and spouses to donate all or some of their unused benefits to children who are attending college. Additionally, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill includes the Machine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship; this award is reserved for spouses and children of military personnel who have died in the line of duty since Sept. 10, 2001. Finally, eligible recipients will be given a yearly textbook stipend of $1,000.
Chapter 31:
This comprehensive section of the G.I. Bill — known as Vocational Rehabilitation, or Voc Rehab for short — is dedicated to creating educational and educational opportunities for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Chapter 32:
Known as the Dependents Education Assistance Program (or DEA), this section of the G.I. Bill provides tuition assistance and other benefits to the spouses and children of military veterans who have been killed in the line of duty or permanently disabled as a result of military service. Eligible candidates will receive up to 36 months of education benefits.
Chapter 35:
Also known as Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance, this section of the GI Bill offers opportunities in the form of education and training to eligible dependents and survivors of certain veterans. Eligible candidates can receive education and career counseling, among other benefits.
Chapter 1607:
Reservists who have completed at least 90 active-duty service days are eligible for education benefits under the Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP). Currently, eligible recipients will receive up to 80% of the educational benefits given to active-duty personnel as they are reservists.
In addition to federal benefits awarded through the G.I. Bill, many colleges and universities offer extra provisions for active-duty servicemembers, veterans and military dependents. These perks may include:
Tuition discounts for eligible military personnel and dependents.
Benefits programs for servicemembers and veterans who may not qualify for Yellow Ribbon and other G.I. Bill benefits.
Prior-learning assessment (PLA) credits awarded for military trainings and experiences.
Institutional scholarships and grants reserved for students with a military background.
In addition to federal benefits awarded through the G.I. Bill, many colleges and universities offer extra provisions for active-duty servicemembers, veterans and military dependents. These perks may include:
Tuition discounts for eligible military personnel and dependents.
Benefits programs for servicemembers and veterans who may not qualify for Yellow Ribbon and other G.I. Bill benefits.
Prior-learning assessment (PLA) credits awarded for military trainings and experiences.
Institutional scholarships and grants reserved for students with a military background.
ACADEMIC OUTCOMES FOR MILITARY STUDENTS
Academic support services are crucial for active-duty servicemembers and military veterans pursuing a college education. “[V]eterans follow very different paths to graduation compared with their traditional peers,” note the authors of Million Record Project, a research initiative launched by Student Veterans of America. “Despite these and other challenges common to nontraditional students, student veterans are persisting towards their educational goals and succeeding.”
The Million Record Project polled active-duty personnel, reservists and military veterans. The project’s report noted that 51.7% of all students surveyed eventually earned a postsecondary certificate or degree program. However, nearly 80% of those polled who completed a college program also received G.I. Bill benefits.
The survey also found that military students typically take longer to complete degree programs than traditional students; the median military student earned an associate degree after four years and a bachelor’s degree after five years. However, the report notes that ‘military-related factors’ often impact degree completion times.
The majority of military students in the U.S. complete their education with a certificate or associate degree program; roughly one-third of those interviewed for the survey had earned a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Thanks to prior-learning assessment (PLA) programs, military students can earn college credit from training programs and field experiences. Academic majors that tend to award the highest amount of PLA credit include business administration, information technology, engineering, nursing and health professions. Military students should carefully research PLA opportunities at different colleges and universities in order to determine which schools are the best match for their particular skill-set.
According to the 2015 Veteran Economic Opportunity Report, one out of two Post-9/11 veterans will experience a period of unemployment during their transition to civilian life. G.I. Bill benefits have played a major role for these individuals; post-9/11 veterans represent roughly 58% of the currently G.I. Bill benefits recipients, and another 8% have donated their unused benefits to a qualifying child who is attending college.
Additionally, female students who receive G.I. Bill benefits recorded a 10% higher completion rate than the average for all benefits recipients. In 2013, the median annual income for veterans in the U.S. was $40,302 — more than $10,000 higher than the median annual earnings for non-veterans.
Additional Support Services
Active-duty servicemembers, veterans or military dependents are encouraged to visit the following sites for more information about tuition assistance, career planning, and other academic services for military students.
VetJobs:
This extensive employment listing site is dedicated to active-service personnel, reservists, National Guard members, veterans and military dependents. Site visitors can browse job openings, post resumes and find career fairs in their area.
G.I. Bill Comparison Tool:
Hosted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this interactive tool allows students to input their G.I. Bill benefits and compare the estimated cost of attending different schools. The tool includes a section for online students.
VFW Student Veteran Support:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) hosts a web page dedicated to military students. The site includes scholarship opportunities, tips for choosing the right school, and information about the VFW-SVA Legislative Fellowship awarded to top-performing veteran students.
New beginnings are both exciting and challenging. This is true for anyone embarking on their next life adventure, but the transition from the military back into civilian life comes with unique complexities. This is especially evident when it comes to former service members looking to further or complete their education. For this reason, finding and evaluating veteran-friendly colleges should be at the top of your list.
There is so much to keep in mind during your search for the best colleges for veterans, from majors and schedules to financial aid and career resources. Once you find a list of contenders that seem to fit your needs, you’ll then want to dig a little deeper to narrow down those options to the best choice for you.
What Is The Best Online College For Military
- Identify Your Goals
Jason Howard, assistant director of undergraduate academic advising and military & veteran compliance, at Franklin University says veterans may wish to return to school for many reasons, from career advancement and higher earning potential to learning a new skill or acquiring knowledge for personal fulfillment.
Think about what’s important to you. Are you looking to build off your military training and experience, or are you interested in starting a completely new career? Once you have a solid idea of what you’d like to accomplish (and why) by using your veteran benefits, you can begin your search for the best military-friendly colleges and, ultimately, discover the one which will help you reach your goal.
- Look for Career-Ready Majors
Schools known for offering degrees for veterans and other adult learners often focus heavily on majors that are in line with current market demands. That’s smart. After all, you want the benefits you’ve earned to pay off—and the school wants to see their graduates succeed. While the job market may play a role in what major you’ll choose, your previous work experience, military training and personal interests may also influence your decision.
Howard explains that at Franklin University, for instance, veteran students are often drawn to technology, cybersecurity and business programs. These industries may not only naturally appeal to many veterans, but they are also fields where employment is expected to grow faster than the average occupations.
For example, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, the demand for information security analysts is expected to grow 28 percent through 2026; anything higher than 15 percent is considered “much faster” than the average occupation, which tends to grow five to nine percent. During that same period, demand for web developers will grow by 15 percent, also “much faster” than the average. On the business side, accountants will see about 10 percent growth through 2026, also faster than the average occupation. Other positions, from human resources specialists and budget analysts to computer support representatives and database administrators are all on the rise.
The Department of Labor website, as well as your local career center, may be a helpful place to research what’s in demand in your area. You can also learn how these fields may match available majors and programs at on-campus or online schools for veterans.
Whether you follow the career trends or follow your heart, once you have an idea of majors you’d like to consider, you’re one step closer to finding the best veteran-friendly college for you.
Heading back to school? Don’t leave without downloading our free field guide full of tips to your maximize your military or veteran benefits.
- Evaluate Programs for Flexibility and Convenience
If you’re like a lot of veterans, you may have other obligations, such as work, family and community commitments. A veteran-friendly college will understand the needs of busy adult learners like you, and this means offering courses in a flexible and convenient format.
This likely means evening classes that meet once per week on campus, or maybe programs that meet on weekends. This may even mean a school for veterans with satellite locations closer to your home, allowing you to take in-person classes with less of a commute—which, in turn, cuts down your time commitment.
Better yet, maybe you’re looking to hone your school search into something more convenient, like the best online colleges for veterans. Many schools, like Franklin University, offer on-campus classes as well as 100 percent-online degree programs that match the quality of their traditional programs. For the self-starter student, online courses offer extreme flexibility. While you’ll still have due dates and possible online discussions, you’ll mostly get to work on your own time. The pressure of having to be in a classroom on time, for a fixed period, is removed when you’re an online student.
Finally, overall timeline matters, too. Many adult-friendly degree programs allow you take one course at a time over a shorter term. This accelerated approach gives you more focus than a traditional semester of multiple daytime classes over the course of 3-4 months.
Choosing a school is more than just finding a schedule and location that’s right for you. It’s also about the right atmosphere. It can be very reassuring to a veteran student to know they’ll be in class, either online or in person, with other adult learners. For example, at Franklin University, the average age of a student is 34. This range in age also means students can learn from one another.
“The background of our veteran students really adds to the diversity of the classroom,” explained Howard. “Bringing in a different perspective is valuable, and each person likely had a different path to college, and that adds something to the learning environment.”
- Look for Strong Academic Support & Career Resources
The best colleges for veterans keep the transition from military service to civilian life in mind when building their programs. In your search, ask schools what services they offer that are extra helpful for, or even specifically designed for, veteran students.
Adult learners often have different needs than a traditional college student. For example, many veterans may be attending college for the first time—or for the first time in many years. Knowing you’ll have access to learning resources, such as tutoring or writing assistance, can bring peace of mind. Likewise, as you move from student to graduate, will your school help prepare you for the job hunt? Interviews? Do they have established relationships with veteran-friendly employers?
Franklin University’s Office of Military and Veteran Affairs, for example, offers a dedicated and one-stop shop for its veteran students. Housed in the academic advising department, this office helps connect those who’ve served in the military to the campus services they need.
- Ensure College Has Military Benefits Expertise
Perhaps one of the most important factors in your search is how a particular school can help maximize your veterans benefits for college. Depending on when and where you served, and for how long, you likely are entitled to an array of educational programs, like the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. It’s important to speak with someone who has a thorough understanding of these benefits and who also can take the time to explain how they may apply to your unique situation. Like most veteran-friendly schools, Franklin University has expertise in this area.
“We work with our students to help them maximize their VA benefits in the most advantageous way,” said Howard, of Franklin’s advising office.
- Ask About Transfer-Credit Policy
Aside from participating in programs like the GI Bill, another way to save on tuition and expenses is to reduce the amount of time it takes to complete the degree.
Howard explains that veteran-friendly schools, such as Franklin University, often have a generous transfer credit policy. This can mean reviewing prior college transcripts to see what requirements may have already been fulfilled. And, more unique to veteran students, this also means exploring military training experience to see what might be equivalent to required or elective course work. Depending on your own background and which degree you’re aiming for, you could save significant time and money by getting credit for your service.
- Find the Right Fit for YOU
All in all, the best colleges for veterans will have paid close attention to the factors we considered here: available majors that meet market demand, dedicated support services, flexible and convenient course offerings, and an understanding of your military education benefits.
Aside from all of these, it’s also about a fit for you. Talk to the people. If you’re planning to attend classes on campus, visit the school. How do you feel while there? What’s the community like? If it’s an online program, will it offer a way for you to connect with your peers?
Do your research. Think about what’s important to you, what’s a must-have and what’s a nice-to-have. Narrow down your options, and then confidently make that life-changing decision you’ve been waiting for!
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, Alabama |
| 2 | Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green, Kentucky |
| 3 | University of South Carolina- Columbia | Columbia, South Carolina |
| 4 | University of Oklahoma | Norman, Oklahoma |
| 5 | Saint Leo University | St. Leo, Florida |
The University of Alabama seeks to be veterans’ top choice for attending college. The Office of Veterans and Military Affairs is a branch of the University of Alabama’s student affairs department that serving all survivors, dependents, veterans, and servicemembers regardless of any prior state or federal funding. With expert guidance and direction of the GI Bill and other military-related funding, the University of Alabama enables students to qualify for aid. Prospective students and current students can gather more information on the available forms and resources.
On-site counselors walk students through the GI Bill and other potentially applicable funding. Also, the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs currently serves 3,000 members. Anyone who associates to the military can enjoy the services of this office which include free printing, study and lounge spaces, computer lab, stress-free rooms, etc. Students can also participate in “Vet Success,” which is a program through the Veterans’ Benefits Administration that provides an experienced vocational rehabilitation counselor to give support to veterans or their families.
The University of Alabama also offers a unique program, “Textbooks for Troops,” in which military-related students can check out books for free on the first day of each semester. For a military-friendly college, the University of Alabama provides quality and extensive services to help veterans, dependents and service members receive an education.
Another top military-friendly school is Western Kentucky University (WKU). For six consecutive years, WKU has been ranked as a “Best for Vets 4-year College” by Military Times Edge magazine. Mindful of those wanting to study who also is active in the military, WKU has provided a regional campus for those stationed at Fort Knox for the last 41 years. Military-related students at WKU can also enjoy “Textbooks for Troops”. For veterans or dependants looking for an online program, WKU may be the answer. As one of the best military friendly online colleges in the country, they offer 50-degree programs entirely online. To provide relief and therapy for veterans who need it, WKU has CanDoo, a golden retriever Therapy Dog. Therapy dogs have been proven to relieve stress and raise spirits. To further help currently serving military students, WKU offers a special tuition rate of $250 per credit.
The University of South Carolina offers services to military-connected individuals. Financial consultations are available to dependents, veterans, and servicemembers. These discussions will help students learn what financial resources are available to them. Various studying spaces are available just for these students as well. The University of South Carolina helps offer resources for emotional and psychological support. The Green Zone is a safe place on campus where trained faculty and staff, also known as Green Zone Allies, provide support to military-related individuals. These students can receive direction to campus resources for financial, physical and academic needs. Green Zone Allies can also be listening ears for students who desire a safe place to voice concerns and issues. The University of South Carolina is a top choice for military-friendly colleges because of the academic and emotional support it provides.
The Veteran Support Alliance at the University of Oklahoma (OU) offers many resources for the military-connected students. For military non-resident students at OU, some may qualify for a tuition waiver. Prospective students can view the qualifications here. The University of Oklahoma also has a Green Zone to provide resources for its students. One emphasis of OU’s Green Zone is the counseling services. Top-quality psychologists offer advice and consultation to veterans, servicemembers, dependents and any military-related individual who may need it.
Saint Leo University is an excellent option for military-related students who desire or require flexibility and mobility with their studies. The university has education centers in 7 states, enabling students the possibility of starting and finishing degrees at different learning centers. The university acts as a fantastic service for military students who get deployed or relocated. Degrees can also be completed online to meet the mobile needs of veterans and servicemembers. Currently, over 5,000 military men and women enroll in programs at Saint Leo University.
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