What Makes a College Military-Friendly?

I'm actively looking into joining the military after graduating high school, and I plan to attend college afterward. What makes a college 'military-friendly' and which schools are known for this?

A "military-friendly" college has implemented policies and services that support its military-connected students. These students may include veteran, active-duty, National Guard, Reserve, or military dependents. Here are some factors that can make a college "military-friendly":

1. Yellow Ribbon Program Participation: This is a part of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, under which colleges and universities agree to fund a portion of a veteran student's tuition and fees that exceed the national maximum set annually by Veterans Affairs.

2. On-Campus Support: Look for schools with offices or departments dedicated to military and veteran students. These offices will often have staff members who are familiar with navigating VA benefits, and can provide resources and support tailored to the unique needs of military students.

3. Transfer Policies: Military-friendly colleges often have generous transfer credit policies, acknowledging the college-level learning that occurs through military training and job experience.

4. Flexible Scheduling and Distance Learning: Online courses, evening classes, and accelerated programs can all be beneficial for military students who might have other commitments or irregular schedules.

5. Veteran Groups and Associations: Clubs or associations for veterans and active-duty military members can be a sign of a supportive community.

6. Special Counseling Services: Veterans and active military members often face unique challenges, such as PTSD or re-acclimating to civilian life. Dedicated counseling services can be a sign that a school understands and is prepared to support these students.

As for specific schools known to be military-friendly, there are several, including Georgetown University, Syracuse University, and University of Southern California, amongst many others. These institutions are recognized for their strong commitment to serving military students and veterans. They have robust resources and policies in place to offer an inclusive and supportive environment for those with military ties. However, it's always best to do your research and reach out to the schools you're interested in to understand their specific offerings for military students.