What is a Military-Friendly School?
1 min read

If you are in the military community, whether active duty, reserve, a veteran or a military spouse, you may want to consider a college with a Military-FriendlyTM designation. These schools have systems and opportunities in place to smooth the transition from military life to civilian academics.
A new way of living: After the strict structure of the military, the autonomy of college can feel unfamiliar or even overwhelming. Military-friendly colleges understand this and work hard to help military students take advantage of available benefits and get the most of college, both for learning and their career.
Financial aid: There’s a host of financial support available to the military. Beyond the GI Bill, check with your state department of veterans for any additional benefits they offer and research scholarships specifically for military personnel. You may also have access to military-specific scholarships at Military-Friendly schools, and some even allow your service to count for credit hours in certain cases.
Mental health support: Unlike an 18-year-old who goes straight from high school to college, most members of the military have several years of work under their belt. They’ve lived life, facing experiences and traumas many civilians never will. Focusing on schoolwork is sometimes easier said than done. Military-Friendly colleges provide resources for students to address and manage these challenges, as well as training for faculty and staff to understand some of their hardships.
Advising and mentorship: Military-Friendly colleges connect potential students with current students, veterans and graduates who understand what it’s like to be in your shoes. They also often provide career counseling and networking opportunities as you take your next step into civilian life.
Service members and their families protect and serve our country, and Military-Friendly colleges consider it their mission and responsibility to serve our military in return. As you’re researching schools, see if a Military-Friendly school makes sense for you.