Selecting a Suitable Military College

I'm itching to know which colleges are known to be good for military-connected students. Are there certain schools that are known for their support of military students and veterans? Any criteria I should consider when assessing these schools?

Absolutely, there are a number of factors that determine how military-friendly a college is.

1. Dedicated Support Services for Military Students: You'll want to look for universities that have a dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, servicemembers, and their families. These services often include academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources.

2. Financial Assistance: Significantly, you should also consider the suitability of the college's financial aid policies for military students. Some colleges have tuition assistance programs specific to the military and veteran students. Moreover, it is advantageous if the school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which can allow eligible GI Bill users to attend private universities and graduate programs at in-state public schools costs.

3. Transfer Credits: You should also look at their policy on accepting military training and experience as college credit. Some colleges are generous in turning your military training and experience into college credits, saving you time and money on your degree.

4. Active Student Veteran Organization: Colleges with an active Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter or similar organizations can also be a good sign of a supportive environment for veterans and active military students.

5. Flexibility: Look for colleges that are flexible in terms of online and part-time options, re-entry after service obligations, and leave of absence policies for deployments.

As for specific schools recognized for their support of military students and veterans, Arizona State University, University of South Florida, and Florida State University are reputed for their comprehensive support services. Georgetown University is noted for its many scholarship options for military students. The University of Southern California offers the Military Veterans Initiative.

Before finalizing your choice, it's crucial to assess the school's academic reputation, the degree programs offered, location, and other factors that are important to you to ensure it's a great fit overall, not just in terms of military support. Don't hesitate to reach out directly to the college's veterans services office with questions. They can provide both information and perspectives that can help inform your decision.