Why Specialized Support for Veterans Matters
This article lists the five top online colleges for veterans. We’ve ensured that each college offers low-cost learning support and tutoring services.
If you’re a veteran looking to return to school, you’re probably weighing many things. You’ve got your academic goals in mind. Yet, you’re also wondering about the transition—how can you balance school with everything else life throws at you?
It’s not always easy to transition from military life to civilian life, and education is no exception. Veterans often face unique challenges when they step foot (or log into a computer) for their first day of class. For one, the structure and routines of military life are vastly different from the more independent nature of college. Veterans may also deal with mental health issues like PTSD or anxiety, which can make focusing on school tough.
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Moreover, after years of service, returning to the classroom can feel like learning a whole new language—especially if it’s been a while since you’ve been in school. There might be feelings of isolation or even the sense that you don’t belong with younger students who haven’t had the same experiences.
All these challenges can make it feel like an uphill battle. However, the right college can provide support that helps you overcome them and succeed academically. This is where military-friendly colleges come in, offering tailored learning support for veterans to make the transition smoother.
A military-friendly college understands veterans and their struggles. These schools provide specific services that help you get the most out of your education, such as:
- Veteran-specific support services like mentorship and career counseling.
- Learning accommodations for disabilities (which some veterans may need after service).
- Tutoring discounts for veterans and other educational resources.
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Key Features to Look for in Online Colleges for Veterans
When you’re searching for a military-friendly college, you’ll probably notice a lot of schools claiming they’re great for veterans. But here’s the thing—not all of those claims mean much. Some schools just say they’re military-friendly without any real backing. That’s why you’ve got to dig a little deeper to make sure they’re the real deal.
Dedicated Veteran Support Services
When exploring colleges, it’s important to ensure they offer strong support for military students. The best schools often have a dedicated office or center specifically for veterans and active-duty service members.
Check if the school has a Veteran Resource Center. These centers typically provide services designed for military students like:
- academic advising
- tutoring
- study skills workshops
- mental health counseling
- career counseling
Many also have staff members who are retired service members, offering guidance from a place of understanding.
Some schools go further by hosting admissions events or information sessions for military and veteran students. Others provide customized orientations, mentoring programs, or onboarding processes specifically tailored to help those with military experience transition into college life.
Learning Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Many veterans face physical injuries or mental health challenges that may require accommodations. Whether you need extended test time, access to online therapy, or other specialized support, choosing a school that provides these services is crucial.
Fortunately, many colleges are dedicated to helping veterans with disabilities thrive. They often have disability support services to assist with your specific needs. When researching schools, look into their track record of supporting students with disabilities.
Student Success Rates and Flexibility in Coursework and Schedules.
As you prepare to transition to the civilian workforce, choosing a college with a strong track record is essential. Take a close look at the following factors when comparing affordable online colleges for veterans:
- Graduation rates reveal how well a college supports students from enrollment to graduation.
- Student loan default rates can indicate whether the school sets students up for career success after graduation.
- Student satisfaction metrics provide insight into how likely alumni are to recommend the college to others.
You likely have commitments outside of school—whether it’s maintaining active duty or reserve status, working full-time, or raising a family. That’s why flexibility is so important.
Consider colleges that offer fully online or self-paced programs. These options can make balancing your education with other responsibilities much more manageable.
These resources are designed to help veterans transitioning to college have a better experience.
Military Experience into College Credits
Many schools offer the opportunity to convert your military training and experience into college credits. This will help you save time and money on your online degree. Here are some common methods colleges use to evaluate your prior life experiences for potential credit:
- Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). This process begins when you request a transcript of your military experience. A college faculty member or an American Council on Education representative will review your transcript to assess the learning outcomes from your service and training. Based on this review, they’ll determine how many credits you may earn.
- Standardized Examinations. Some schools may require you to take standardized exams to demonstrate your knowledge in specific subjects, allowing you to earn college credits.
- Portfolio Review. Schools may invite you to present a portfolio of your work, which a faculty member or trained evaluator will review to determine if you qualify for any credits.
After these evaluations, the school will inform you which courses are considered complete and how many credits you can receive for your military experience.
Top Online Colleges Offering Learning Support for Veterans
University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
UMGC, located in Adelphi, Maryland, is a public university specializing in online programs. It offers over 30 bachelor’s degree options. UMGC provides numerous benefits to military students to support their academic success. These include:
- Credit for Military Experience. Students can receive credit for prior military training and experience.
- Flexible Online Format. Programs are designed for online study, making it convenient for students stationed anywhere in the world.
- Reduced Tuition Rates. Active-duty Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Air Force service members may be eligible for reduced tuition.
- Financial Assistance. Additional financial aid options are available to military students.
- Dedicated Military Advisors. UMGC employs online military advisors and has additional advisors stationed at military bases nationwide to provide in-person assistance when needed.
Liberty University
Liberty University is a private, Christian university offering over 100 bachelor’s degree programs, all delivered 100% online. These programs span a variety of fields, from the arts to STEM to business and education. Liberty also offers several faith-based programs in religion, Bible studies, and theology.
Liberty is considered one of the best higher education for veterans due to the following reasons:
- Discounted Tuition Rates. Military students get a tuition discount of $250 per credit. Veterans who are first responders may receive an additional discount.
- GI Bill Assistance. Further savings are available through the GI Bill’s tuition assistance program.
- College Credit for Military Training. Military training are translated into college credits, reducing the time needed to complete a degree.
- Flexible Online Programs. Liberty offers flexibility with eight start dates throughout the year, making it easier for service members to balance their education with their military duties.
- Tutoring. It provides up to 10 hours of online tutoring per semester, with available courses varying each term.
National University
Based in San Diego, California, NU offers 49 online bachelor’s degrees, including education, marketing, management, and more options. NU is indeed one of the best military-friendly online colleges and offers several benefits for military students, such as:
- Flexible Month-Long Classes. Designed for active-duty service members with busy schedules.
- Financial Support. A range of scholarships, grants, and funding options, such as the Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship, which provides $10,000 in tuition benefits to 25 students annually.
- 24/7 Virtual Veteran Center. Offers additional support services for military students, including peer and academic mentoring services.
Full Sail University
Full Sail University offers over 20 online bachelor’s degrees focused on entertainment media and technology. Full Sail provides several benefits for military students, including:
- Dedicated Military Admissions Department. Assists active-duty members, veterans, and military spouses throughout the application process.
- Military Student Success Center. A space for on-campus and online networking and tutoring.
- Financial Assistance Resources. Access to various financial aid options.
- Propeller Magazine. Full Sail’s online magazine includes a military edition featuring veteran success stories and military-related events.
American Public University System
The American Public University System offers over 50 fully online bachelor’s degrees. APUS also provides various security and public safety programs, which may be particularly appealing to military students. Among its standout veteran student support services are:
- Affiliation with American Military University (AMU). A dedicated institution within APUS that provides online resources and support for military students. Programs include free online tutoring, networking, and mentorship.
- Reduced Credit Costs. Active-duty students, veterans, and their spouses can receive credits at a reduced rate of $250 per credit.
- Financial Support. APUS waives application and transfer fees and offers eight military-friendly scholarships. The APU Military Grant also reduces book costs and technology fees to zero.
Tutoring Discounts and Financial Aid for Veterans
As a veteran, you’re eligible for various financial aid options to help ease the cost of your education. Many online colleges for veterans offer tutoring discounts or even free tutoring services, which can be a huge benefit, especially if you’re returning to academics after a long break.
In addition to tutoring discounts, veterans can access numerous scholarships and financial aid programs.
Your GI Bill® benefits can cover a large part of your education. However, you may still face some out-of-pocket expenses. This is especially true if you attend a private or public school as an out-of-state student.
Look for a GI Bill®-approved school that partners with programs like the Yellow Ribbon Program.
The Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program, as part of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, helps cover additional education costs beyond what the GI Bill® provides. Participating colleges and universities contribute extra funding for eligible students without using up their GI Bill® entitlement.
Tuition Assistance for Active-Duty Service Members
At some schools, active-duty military members and their spouses can access affordable online programs with reduced tuition. These options make earning a degree while serving much more manageable.
Scholarships for Military Students
In addition to GI Bill® benefits, scholarships can help cover costs. Keep an eye out for scholarships for veterans like:
- AMVETS National Scholarship Program
- Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship
- Military Order of the Purple Heart Scholarship
- AFCEA War Veterans Scholarship
Tips for Choosing the Right Online College as a Veteran
When picking the best online colleges for veterans, evaluating both the support services offered and the costs associated with attending is important.
Here are some things to ask yourself:
- Are you looking to build on your military training and experience, or are you considering starting a completely new career path?
- Does the school offer veteran-specific support services like mentorship, counseling, and peer networks?
- What is the cost of tuition, and how much will financial aid or military benefits cover?
- Does the school offer flexibility in course schedules to accommodate your lifestyle?
Before deciding, contact the admissions office and ask about veteran-specific resources. Some key questions include:
- What kind of academic support does the school offer for veterans?
- Are there tutoring discounts or free tutoring available?
- Are there scholarships, grants, or financial aid programs for veterans?
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Your Future
Students with military experience bring valuable perspectives to the classroom, but it’s important to note that some colleges are more military-friendly than others. When listing online colleges for veterans, consider factors like:
- flexible learning options
- credit for military experience
- financial support
- resources such as military-focused advisors and tutoring services
These resources can ensure that your transition into higher education is as smooth and rewarding as possible.