People who serve in the country’s armed forces have rendered the greatest service for their country. They are ready to offer the ultimate sacrifice of protecting and serving the nation.
For military service members who want to pursue education or training while serving in an irregular schedule in the armed forces, it can be challenging and stressful. Are you interested in online courses for military families? If so, stay tuned!
Thanks to several military-friendly online schools and programs, military personnel, as well as their families can choose any type of degree depending on their interest and passion.
Audio Summarization:
Most members of the military have already attained a high school diploma and may plan to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree.
One of the reasons why they choose to pursue another degree is to either rise in rank, should they decide to stay in the armed forces. For others, a new online degree is a way to pursue a variety of civilian job opportunities upon retirement.
Are there online courses for military families?
Many active military members prefer an online program to pursue higher education rather than enroll in traditional classroom-based instruction.
It provides them the flexibility to take the courses and complete assignments when their schedule fits and allows them to prioritize their military duties when the need arises. Online courses for military families provide convenience and adaptability for those with busy schedules.
As a token of gratitude for the unwavering service to the country, we list the Top Online Schools for Active Military Families. This catalog of online academic institutions features several online courses for military families, particularly opportunities for veterans and active service members.
We mention the numerous benefits and support services offered by each online college or university that readily assist our modern heroes and their families in pursuing higher education and obtaining financial aid opportunities.
Page Jumps!
- 15 Top Online Schools for Active Military Families
- Liberty University
- Drexel University
- Penn State World Campus
- Regent University
- Bellevue University
- University of Arkansas Grantham
- Park University
- Saint Leo University
- Norwich University
- Ball State University
- Webster University
- University of Maryland Global Campus
- California University of Pennsylvania
- Western Governors University
- Post University
- Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the top online schools, in no particular order, that provide military members with the best and most convenient way to earn a higher education while serving the nation through distance education.
The Top Schools Offering Online Courses for Military Families
Liberty University
“Through its residential and online programs, services, facilities, and collaborations, the University educates men and women who will make important contributions to their workplaces and communities, follow their chosen vocations as callings to glorify God, and fulfill the Great Commission.”
Liberty University is a private, Christian educational institution in Lynchburg, Virginia that provides one of the most flexible online programs ideal for active military members. They offer access to world-class learning resources for all their students.
The university provides:
- Information Systems,
- Business Administration,
- Social Sciences,
- Social Work,
- and Criminal Justice among other specializations.
Liberty University has an Office of Military Affairs that directly involves online students in their military concerns. They are one of the universities that provide above-average support services for military members and their families.
As a service member, veteran, or dependent on a service member, you get the most accurate, up-to-date academic information possible from Liberty University. The school has cultivated relationships with several military organizations, partnering with them to accelerate your path to graduation through transfer credit programs.
LU has one-stop-shop online resources for veterans and armed forces pursuing an education with them, such as Military Deployment, Military Affairs, Veterans Benefits, Military Degree Plans, Military Transfer Credits, Military Programs, and Military Outreach and Community.
Did You Know?
For just $390/credit hour, Liberty University provides multiple pathways for service members and veterans to earn a doctorate. This is their way of showing appreciation for the commitment and service you’ve given the nation.
Drexel University
“Drexel’s ongoing strategic plan, “Transforming the Modern Urban University,” guides the University’s 21st-century trajectory.”
Established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University is a private research university that is committed to being known as the nation’s most engaged university, with a variety of community partnerships combined into different service and academic aspects.
Almost two decades after launching its first set of online courses, this renowned university now offers more than 150 online degree and certificate programs, utilizing the same accreditation, faculty, and curriculum as on-campus education.
Drexel University offers a diverse array of online degree programs that cater to both students and working professionals.
They offer certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees in:
- Arts, Business/Management,
- Criminal Justice,
- Education,
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation,
- Technology,
- and Psychology to name a few.
The university provides discounted military tuition rates across its online programs. Also, the military-friendly Drexel University offers a concrete support system for their active military applicants by providing personalized support, a transferrable GI Bill to spouses and dependents, and a one-stop shop for educational benefits for the veterans and military.
In addition, the university offers an Office of Veteran Students Services that coordinates with campus-wide activities to ensure that military dependents and veterans have the accessibility to campus learning resources and services with ease.
You will be guided through the enrollment process by a dedicated Drexel University Online counselor. They can guide you through the process and maximize your benefits.
Did You Know?
- Technology-enhanced adult education is Drexel University’s specialty. Online courses at the university were launched in 1996, and today, the 140 online degree programs run the same accredited curriculum and faculty as their on-campus counterparts.
- Drexel has long been associated with military history. In 1916, the Philadelphia Armory was built on this university as a National Guard facility and multipurpose venue.
Penn State World Campus
“Penn State launched the World Campus in 1998 to make online degree programs available to students beyond the reach of our physical campuses. Today, Penn State World Campus specializes in serving adult learners, corporate partners, and the military.”
Pennsylvania State University offers 197 online degree programs through the Penn State World Campus. Considered a military-friendly educational institution, Penn State World Campus is recognized as a top military-friendly institution that hosts more than 4,000 online military-affiliated students.
The university’s online degree programs range from several areas of study such as:
- Business,
- Education,
- Law and Public Policy,
- Engineering,
- Homeland Security,
- Liberal Arts
- and Communication among others.
Penn State World Campus has an extensive support services system for military and veteran students. They have a dedicated team of experts who will help navigate service members, military families, and veterans in admissions, benefits programs, impacts of deployment, and other military support offered by the university.
Also, the university provides Undergraduate Military Grant-in-Aid for all the members of the Department of Defense, U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Armed Forces as well as their spouses.
Penn State provides a variety of options to provide financial assistance for their education through the Financial Aid for Military and Veteran Students. A specially trained military support team is available to Penn State World Campus military students through their Military Support page.
Penn State World Campus employs many veterans who use their firsthand military knowledge to help students succeed.
Did You Know?
Veteran learners are very important to the institution and this is why they have complied with several standards established by the Federal Government such as the Department of Defense Voluntary Education Memorandum of Understanding and the Department of Veterans Affairs Executive Order 13607 Principles of Excellence.
Regent University
“Regent University serves as a center of Christian thought and action to provide excellent education through a biblical perspective and global context equipping Christian leaders to change the world.”
Virginia Beach is home to Regent University which provides a one-stop online reference through the Military Resource Center for all the information needed for military personnel, veterans, and their spouses who want to pursue an online education with Regent.
A top military-friendly university, Regent University provides several online degree programs in different areas of study such as:
- education,
- nursing,
- business & leadership,
- law/government/history,
- general studies/interdisciplinary,
- arts & communication/English,
- divinity/theology,
- STEM,
- and psychology & counseling.
Regent University offers substantial military and veteran educational benefits through VA Education Benefits, Military Admissions and aid, Dependent and spouse Benefits, and Military Programs and Partnerships.
Also, the university works with the military to specify special credits that are transferrable in agreements for certain members such as the Military Partner Schools for Advanced Standing, and Air University.
Regent was ranked as one of Military Times’ top five best colleges for online and nontraditional education. The school ranked fifth out of hundreds of schools with more than 10,000 students offering a doctorate according to Military Friendly.
Did You Know?
- US News & World Report ranked Regent’s online Bachelor’s program as the Best in Virginia in 2021 due to its outstanding academic standards.
- In the U.S., only 23 universities receive an “A” from ACTA, including Regent University.
Bellevue University
“Bellevue University has been a phenomenal place powered by a workforce committed to a student-first ideal. We’ve invested in ourselves, our campus, and our community to provide students with a caring, high-quality environment of support.
With a clear vision of who we are, where we want to go, and a plan on how to get there, that goal – becoming the premier open-access university in the United States – will swiftly become a reality.”
Headquartered in Nebraska, Bellevue University is a private, non-profit university that is among the nation’s top military-friendly educational institutions offering online courses for military families. Whatever your career goals are, they have more than 80 career-focused programs available, 100% online, and with flexible learning options.
Undergraduate and graduate programs at Bellevue University include:
- arts and humanities,
- business,
- management and leadership,
- human capital,
- public service,
- safety,
- security and intelligence,
- and education and training to name a few.
Bellevue University is dedicated to serving and providing the best quality education for military members, veterans, and their spouses/dependents. They give a discounted tuition rate of $250 per credit hour from 29 bachelor’s degree programs.
Also, Bellevue University offers many services to military and veteran students such as housing assistance, career counseling, a private study area, and lounge, mentoring, tutoring, and conference rooms through the Military Veterans Service Center.
The support they provide is available via telephone, email, or social media, and they aim to provide it on a global scale. The university allows students to choose from different types of VA Education Benefits. You can put your online learning experience to work to prepare you for the top careers of today.
Did You Know?
- In its “Best for Vets: Colleges 2016 Online & Nontraditional Schools” report, the Military Times ranked Bellevue University sixth.
- In Military Advanced Education magazine’s ranking of top colleges and universities, the University consistently ranks among the best in the nation.
The University of Arkansas Grantham
“Grantham University is dedicated to quality education for students serious about preparing for a better, brighter future. Together, our constitution, mission, vision, and core values define both our purpose and our passion. We’re here to serve.”
Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the University of Arkansas Grantham has been providing over 50 accredited online degree programs for 65 years. They are powered by four major colleges namely:
- College of Arts and Sciences,
- College of Engineering and Computer Science,
- College of Nursing and Allied Health,
- and Mark Skousen School of Business provides a professionally relevant distance education with convenience, flexibility, and affordability.
You have all the equipment you need to earn your online degree on your brand-new laptop which is provided by the university. Dedicated to your success, this is just another way the university makes sure you’re successful.
The University of Arkansas Grantham’s tuition rates are among the lowest in the country without compromising quality, with the military rate at $250 per credit hour. Grantham University is an important educational institution that provides a great resource of support systems for those who have active service in the U.S. Military.
The university has received recognition from Military Times Best, and GI Jobs as well as awarded as a Top Military Friendly School by Military Advanced Education and Transition for ten years consecutively.
Grantham’s Financial Aid Team helps veterans maximize their VA Benefits, explore Tuition Assistance Benefits, and grant spouses and dependents financial aid options through the Military Programs at the school.
They have a dedicated Veteran Support Team that provides an array of services such as career planning, mentorship, veteran benefits, ADA accommodations, support for the Student Veterans of America, classroom program assistance, and financial management support.
Did You Know?
Grantham University officially became the University of Arkansas Grantham in late 2021 after joining the University of Arkansas System. With more than 60 completely online degree programs and certificates, the University of Alabama Grantham is now a stronger institution that can better serve the thousands of students already enrolled.
Park University
“Park University transforms lives through accessible, student-centered, quality higher education. We celebrate GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP through our connected learning and working environment, liberal arts education, and community stewardship.”
Park University is a university founded in 1875 that provides one of the top-quality educational institutions worldwide. The university maintains 40 campus locations in 21 states, serving 17,000 students. Park offers more than 500 courses that are designed to provide flexibility, convenience, and adaptability to distance learners.
There are campus centers across the US, over 60 online degrees, as well as a flagship campus in Parkville and a new residential campus in Gilbert. You can start achieving your goals now.
Several military programs are offered in three significant areas of study namely:
- management,
- liberal arts & sciences,
- and education & health professions.
As one of the leading military-friendly schools around the country, Park University maximizes military experience and training from the Joint Service Transcript. They provide up to 75 credit hour transfers.
At Park University, one of the benefits of education programs for currently serving students is priced at $550 per credit hour, veteran’s program benefits are priced at $250 per credit hour.
Additionally, Park University’s Department for Military and Veteran Student Services has a Global Warrior Center that provides a wealth of information and relevant resources for military service members and transitioning veterans.
The center helps to inform students about educational benefits, and VA benefits, works with students under deployment processes, and aids in any veteran-related inquiries. Also, they help veterans access healthcare, employment opportunities, transition assistance, financial aid, and counseling services, and help veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
On-site resources such as relaxation stations, laptops, reference libraries, and other amenities are readily available to best serve the needs of veterans, family members, dependents and spouses, and service members
Did You Know?
Park College grad George S. Robb, who served in World War I as an officer in the 369th Infantry Regiment, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in late September 1918. During the review of the Valor Medals Project, students majoring in history assist in conducting research.
Saint Leo University
“The mission of Saint Leo—to educate and serve—has been illuminated with instances of resourcefulness, ingenuity, and fulfillment of purpose. It was over four decades ago that Saint Leo brought courses for the first time to 176 students at Avon Park and 13 students at MacDill Air Force Base.
Today, close to 6,000 men and women of the armed forces, veterans, and their family members are enrolled in Saint Leo University degree programs – that’s about one-third of our university-wide student community.”
Saint Leo University is a private university that has earned some accolades for its commitment to serving the active-duty military, veterans, and military families through affordable, accessible, and quality education. In its century-long history as Florida’s oldest Catholic university and one of the most prestigious institutions in Central Florida, Saint Leo University welcomes students of all faiths.
The university offers 72 online degree programs across different categories including:
- criminal justice,
- arts & sciences,
- psychology,
- social work,
- social science,
- education,
- business,
- and information technology among others.
Saint Leo University offers tuition assistance for voluntary, out-of-duty educational degrees that provide support to the service member’s personal and professional development goals.
They have a variety of Military and Veteran Benefits, and Military Education Resources to assist student-veterans and service members and their families with a smooth-sailing educational journey. For those deployed/relocated on duty, they have several Education Centers that allow them to finish their degree at their convenient locations.
Working parents, active-duty military service members, veterans, career changers, and first-generation students make up the Saint Leo Education Center student body.
Did You Know?
- Saint Leo locations are connected through VTT technology. A VTT classroom offers real-time interaction and collaboration through the streaming of video, audio, and documents from a computer, laptop, or document camera.
- Mobile professionals who cannot attend traditional or VTT classes benefit from ICC technology. Students can participate in ICC from anywhere in the world with high-speed internet access and a web camera – at home, in a hotel, or even aboard a naval vessel – where they have internet access and a web camera.
Norwich University
“At Norwich University, we understand. We’ve been educating and serving military students for nearly 200 years.”
Established in Northfield, Vermont, Norwich University offers several online programs that meet the unique needs and goals of active/on-duty military members, veterans, and their family members.
The university pioneered a new paradigm for providing quality education to service members that combines field training and experiential methodologies with liberal arts studies. It has become one of the first military schools to integrate civilian students on campus.
At Norwich University, the U.S. Department of Defense’s Tuition Assistance program aids eligible active military members, reserves, and personnel.
The TA amount which does not exceed $550/credit hour can be combined with the GI Bill funds to help offset the balance. Also, the university offers several financing aid opportunities such as tuition assistance, federal loans, and veteran benefits such as the Yellow Ribbon Program, and the Montgomery GI Bill.
Did You Know?
- Captain Alden Partridge founded Norwich University following a fallout with West Point. Throughout Norwich’s operations, it has always emphasized the importance of citizen-soldier education.
- Members of the faculty have connections at the state and municipal levels in New England and beyond. Many alumni assist in building connections with other departments and governments, and some international alumni actively advocate for programs.
Ball State University
“Ball State University Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive resources to veterans, reservists, guardsmen, and family members using Veterans Affairs benefits to aid in their overall success as students.”
Ball State University takes pride as one of the Military-Friendly institutions in the country. The university has been ranked in the top 20 for “Best Online Programs for Veterans” according to the U.S. News & World Report.
They deliver a variety of online degree programs that are suitable for the students’ schedules as well as multiple course delivery methods to help enhance their career and education most conveniently.
The same faculty teach their more than 100 online degrees, certificates, and educator licenses as those who teach on campus. Their programs include:
- business administration,
- general studies,
- logistics and supply chain management,
- criminal justice and criminology,
- coaching education,
- and special education to name a few.
Ball State University’s Veterans Affairs Staff works with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the State of Indiana to provide support and assistance to active military members, veterans, and their families.
The partnerships have resulted in streamlined processing of military education benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill, Indiana Child of Disabled Veteran, Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP), Federal Tuition Assistance/National Guard Supplemental Grant, and Chapter 31 VA Vocational Rehabilitation.
As a veteran, reservist, guardsman, or family member, you can take advantage of comprehensive services provided by Ball State University Veterans Affairs to help you maximize your academic success.
Did You Know?
Having been named a “Military Friendly” institution is an honor for Ball State. Ball State ranked 18th in the nation for “Best Online Programs for Veterans” according to US News & World Report.
Webster University
“Webster University opened its first military campus in 1974, and since then has provided unmatched educational programs to our military for more than 40 years. Webster quickly and consistently established itself as a leader in military education assisting veteran and military students in making their educational dreams come true.”
An American private, non-profit university, Webster University takes pride in the accomplishment of its students and graduates. They provide prestigious degrees and world-class distance learning convenience to students all around the world.
Since 1999, Webster University has offered students top-of-the-line online education. The university offers more than 50 online certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs that are delivered in the same standard and rigorous format as the courses taught on campus. Webster University demonstrates the full support of their military students, veterans, and their family members in achieving their goals by providing discounted tuition fees.
Participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a team of military advisors that are trained to assist with military and VA benefits, transfer of military credits with the school’s generous transfer policies, military, financial assistance, and member participation in the TA Top-Up Program are just some of the ways Webster University supports their military and veteran students.
They also offer Returning Military Services which is intended to aid returning veterans in adjusting to college life and helping them succeed during their college career.
Did You Know?
U.S. News & World Report rated Webster University as the 7th “Best for Veterans” regional institution for 2022 in the Midwest. It’s also placed at #16 in the Regional Universities Midwest category. Webster’s online MBA, education, and business programs were also recognized.
University of Maryland Global Campus
“The University of Maryland Global Campus offers award-winning academic programs and services for active-duty military service members, veterans, and military spouses and families. No college can match our experience and dedication in educating active-duty troops, reservists, members of the National Guard, veterans, and military family members.”
The University of Maryland Global Campus is a university with a prominent history of providing world-class quality education to the armed forces since World War II. They offer a broad range of online degrees and certifications to help students earn skills and capabilities from a university with a strong reputation for excellence.
Their academic programs range from:
- business and management,
- IT and computer systems,
- public safety,
- data analytics,
- liberal arts & communication,
- and cybersecurity among others.
Their undergraduate programs include more than 30 degree and certificate options, and you can take advantage of their flexible credit transfer policies to apply previous education, professional experience, and military service as credit.
UMGC allows military and veteran students to earn their degrees without breaking the bank. The university’s staff of veterans assist undergraduate and graduate students through Tuition Assistance for Military Personnel as well as extensive opportunities for Education Benefits and Financial Aid.
Students who are active-duty military, National Guard or Reserves, or who are members of the National Guard or Reserves, can qualify for a special undergraduate military rate, or the Tuition Assistance can cover up to 100 percent of tuition. Also, UMGC offers financial assistance and scholarship programs for active military members, veterans, and others affiliated with the military.
Did You Know?
- In addition to lifetime career services and resources, they also offer job postings, internships, mentorship opportunities, and webinars for students and alumni.
- One or more of our 100+ scholarships may be awarded to you through their donor scholarship process.
California University of Pennsylvania
“Cal U offers career-focused academic programs that engage students in applied and active learning. You’ll gain a solid academic foundation in your chosen field, along with the skills that matter most to employers, including technology literacy, communication, critical thinking, and teamwork.”
The California University of Pennsylvania has more than 75 online certificates, and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs that help students enhance their professional career pathways.
They offer several programs from different academic categories including:
- business/economics,
- visual and performing arts,
- education,
- law and justice,
- human services,
- communications,
- engineering/technology,
- and liberal arts among others.
Students have the option to take their degree in a hybrid or flex format depending on their preference. Whether you study as an on-campus or an online student, you’ll have access to the same faculty and graduate with the same diploma.
The Office of Military and Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive support for active-duty members, service members, veterans, and eligible dependents. They help students maximize their military education benefits and help them reach their life and educational goals.
Education Benefits Support, The Vet Center, and the Veterans Club are some of the primary resources offered by Cal U in understanding the unique demands of each service member and veteran.
The university has been providing its students with military-friendly education and support systems including financial aid and scholarships. Global Online offers a reduced rate of $250 per credit course for active-duty and veteran members who are students seeking an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree. Out-of-state residents can save over $100 per credit.
Did You Know?
The California University of Pennsylvania is one of Pennsylvania’s most affordable universities. It is a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.
Western Governors University
“WGU pioneered competency-based education. We remain the only institution offering competency-based degrees at scale, creating a model other colleges and universities are increasingly striving to replicate.”
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, Western Governors University is one of the pioneering schools of distance learning and innovative education solutions. They are at the forefront of competency-based education with a notable reputation for excellence.
It is an online school with career-aligned objectives in its methods of teaching. Online degrees are designed to allow working professionals the opportunity to earn undergraduate/graduate degrees without compromising their busy lifestyles.
The university has more than 50 online degree programs offered by WGU’s four colleges, namely:
- College of Business Online,
- College of Information Technology Online,
- College of Health Professions Online,
- and Teachers College Online.
WGU has an approved Military Tuition Assistance on their competency-based degree programs. Most education benefits already cover the full cost of fees, books, and tuition. They have a dedicated Enrollment Counselor who will assist students in all the processes and paperwork involved in admission to WGU’s Military Support.
Also, WGU offers part-time options only to those service members using Tuition Assistance. Scholarship opportunities are also available. If military benefits do not cover tuition, students may be eligible for other scholarships.
Did You Know?
WGU’s curriculum focuses on today’s workforce needs, which explains why 98% of employers are satisfied with their graduates, and why students earn over $12,000 more than two years after graduation.
Post University
“At Post University, we understand the demands and responsibilities that come with military service, and we’re committed to supporting those who’ve devoted their lives to protecting our country. We began providing educational benefits to military personnel in 1976.”
Waterbury, Connecticut is home to Post University which offers flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs with affordability and convenience for students. These programs are delivered from Post University’s tight-knit communities through award-winning schools namely The Malcolm Baldridge School of Business, School of Arts & Sciences, and John P. Burke School of Public Service Education.
The popular online degree programs of Post University are:
- Psychology,
- Biology,
- Business Administration,
- Finance,
- Management,
- Human Resource Management,
- and Marketing
Post University generously offers military benefits to veterans and their eligible family members such as the Yellow Ribbon Program, G.I. Bill and Post University Certification Process, and The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts Program.
Military Tuition Assistance programs are offered to active duty personnel. According to the DoD guidelines, Military Tuition Assistance covers up to 100% of tuition costs for any courses offered by accredited institutions. A specialized and expert military admissions staff is readily available to assist students in their educational journey with Post University.
Also, the university has partnerships with Special Military Programs to provide advanced educational opportunities to armed forces and veterans such as Air University Associate-to-Baccalaureate Cooperative, US Army Recruiting and Retention College, Community College of the Air Force’s General Education Mobile, and US Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear School.
Did You Know?
The American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University adds to Post University’s portfolio of program offerings the fully online advanced nursing and healthcare programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the educational support services that military personnel and their families get?
Support Services vary from one university or college to another. All schools take pride in providing the best military support system for the veterans or military men who want to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies with them.
They hire counselors or admin staff with military experiences that are centralized in assisting them firsthand.
Additionally, there is a designated veteran’s group that works closely with students to support them in their college applications and find the necessary information to help them establish a higher education opportunity.
There are several external sources provided by the U.S. government to help service members pursue their education such as the Voluntary Education Program, Marine Corps Voluntary Education Program, and the Navy College Program. A one-stop shop for service member resources is provided by the U.S. Department of Defense through Military OneSource.
What are the educational benefits that military personnel and their families get?
Military members receive unique benefits and programs in their chosen schools. The school provides a designated advisor with a military background who specializes in the needs of the members of the armed forces.
They offer a wealth of information including the benefits of military members that the school provides, types of financial aid, assistance in the transfer of credits before the military education or training credentials, and military discounts for members of their families who are interested in pursuing a college education.
The school will assist in the military member’s GI benefits. They will aid in the eligibility of either the Montgomery GI Bill or the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Many schools provide workshops for veterans to help them transition into a distance learning format since some of them suffer from injuries/physical disabilities, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Also, advisors can match a person’s military skills with a degree that will help him/her transition into a civilian career. Individual orientations and counseling services for military members are readily provided by the school to give them the best and smooth-sailing learning experience.
Most schools also provide scholarships, grants, and discount programs to military spouses depending on the status and terms of their military credentials and the GI Bill. A military spouse may be eligible for financial aid to assist with the credentials needed and tuition expenses to transition him/her to a new career.
Your chosen school will readily help you and instruct you on several opportunities for your military spouses and children.
What is the GI Bill and how do military personnel enjoy their GI Military benefits?
The GI Bill, also known as the Montgomery GI Bill or MGIB, was authored by the late President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide financial assistance to veterans of World War II.
Military members must pay at least $100 per month from the first year of their military service to be able to qualify for the benefits.
The GI Bill can help them pay for certificate training, a college degree, flight training, vocational courses, or other distance learning programs. It is valid for 36 months allowing you to take up to four years of a college education. The GI Benefit is available 10 to 15 years after an honorable discharge from service.
There are two ways to apply for GI Military Benefits – you may use them in your chosen school, or you may apply on your own. Military-friendly educational institutions have a team of advisors, counselors, and veteran groups who will readily assist you in your application or comply with the paperwork.
If you want to apply on your own, you may visit the VA regional office and complete the VA application form, or you may call 1-888-GIBILL-1 for direct phone applications.
It will take four to eight weeks to determine or receive your eligibility once you have logged your application. A request for additional information/documents may be asked from you. Once approved, consult the school’s advisor who specializes in military benefits to maximize your financial assistance to meet all your academic needs.
How does a student’s military training translate to college credits?
You must follow the policies of the university you intend to attend to earn credit for your military training. Colleges and universities are more likely to accept military experience than not, but there’s no concrete rule or law for them to do so.
Generally, there are three steps to the process, as provided below:
- Choose a college or university you plan to attend.
Colleges are free to determine their policies regarding the acceptance of military experience for credit. As a result, active-duty service members and veterans looking to maximize the value of their experience must do their research before selecting a school:
- Review the university’s military website or speak with an admissions counselor to learn how to maximize the transfer credits that the school is willing to accept.
- Find the best major or program that fits your military experience.
- Review the university’s military support resources, tuition assistance and scholarships, and veteran benefits, and check all the services that they offer to make your educational experience more convenient.
- Request copies of your military transcripts.
The admissions officer needs to understand how you spent your time in the military to determine the value of your military experience. This information can be found in your military transcripts. Therefore, ensure to secure this document upon your online enrollment.
A military transcript contains information about your service in the armed forces. A military transcript can either be an official copy or an unofficial copy. To make a final decision about an applicant, a university must obtain and review official transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are available for your review and may inform preliminary decisions regarding credit transfer.
An unofficial transcript is likely to be helpful to you when you apply to universities. It will be easier for you to understand the information contained therein if you do this. If any discrepancies or errors exist, take action to correct them.
- Apply to every college or university you intend to attend.
To submit your applications, you will need to evaluate colleges and universities, review your military records, and choose the schools you wish to apply to. When securing all your documents, including your military transcripts. Make sure it’s an official copy, or as requested by the university.
Other Resources: