I've been checking out MAE and their list of Top Military Friendly Colleges. What's the selection criteria? How do they decide which college makes the top?
The designation of being a Military Friendly® School, as listed by Military Advanced Education & Transition (MAE), is given to institutions that deliver excellent outcomes for their military and veteran students. The Military Friendly® ratings program started in 2003 as an advocacy for better opportunities for vets transitioning from service to civilian life.
There's a comprehensive method that MAE uses to recognize these institutions. Here is an overview of the key deciding factors:
1. Academic Polices & Compliance: This measures how well the institution adheres to the principles outlined by the Veterans Success Jam and the VA's Principles of Excellence. This can include things like providing military students with a dedicated point of contact, accepting ACE credits, and not penalizing students due to military duties.
2. Culture & Commitment: This assesses the institution’s commitment level to recruiting and retaining military and veteran students. This can involve practices like having a veterans center, staff experienced in veteran issues, and active student veterans' organization.
3. Financial Assistance & Loan Repayment: This evaluates whether an institution reduces or offsets the cost of higher education for military students and aids them in managing student debt.
4. Admissions & Orientation: This considers whether the school is supportive during the admissions process and provides an orientation for military students.
5. Graduation & Career: This assesses the institution’s student graduation rates and job placement rates for military students.
6. Military Support & Retention: This looks at programs created specifically for military students to assist them in their success as students and beyond.
Of course, each school is unique with its strengths and weaknesses, so these are generalized categories. Have you considered which factors are most important to you when looking at Military Friendly® Schools? Whether it be job placement, academic flexibility, or cultural support, each can immensely impact your education and overall experience.
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