Florida offers a wide range of financial aid and support programs to members of the military community and their families. If you’re interested in earning a college degree and achieving your educational goals after completing your service, there are several military-friendly colleges in Florida that can help with your professional development through an in-person or online program.
With the advancement in higher education and the unique offerings of the best military colleges in Florida, the end of service can be the start of an exciting career for you. The best colleges for veterans in Florida give you access to quality academic programs, dedicated student support, tuition discounts, veteran centers, flexible course schedules, and career services.
Is It Hard to Get Into a Military-Friendly College in Florida?
No, it is not hard to get into a military-friendly college in Florida. Although you’ll be required to meet the same admissions requirements as regular students, your military background and experience can strengthen your college application and increase your chances of receiving a letter of acceptance from the admissions office.
Funding for Military-Friendly Schools in Florida
A total of 570 institutions in Florida hold Post-9/11 GI Bill approval according to the US Department of Veterans Affairs. These institutions, which include community colleges, training centers, as well as public and private universities, offer local, state, and federal financial aid programs in addition to educational benefits to military service members, veterans, and dependent children.
These programs currently offer benefits for veterans’ education in Florida:
- Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Tuition waivers, including Congressman C.W. Young Tuition Waiver Program, Active Duty Military waivers, and Purple Heart Recipient waivers
- Honorably Discharged Graduate Assistance Program
- Scholarships for children and spouses of deceased or disabled veteran programs
- US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) educational benefits including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Survivors, and dependents educational assistance (DEA), Montgomery GI Bill, The Yellow Ribbon Program, Marine Gunnery Seargent John David Fry Scholarship Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP), Reserve Educational help Program (REAP)
- Veteran High School Diploma Program
- Veteran Florida Entrepreneurship Program
Is College Free in Florida if You Are a Veteran?
College is free in Florida if you are a veteran, but only if you have earned a Purple Heart or a combat decoration considered superior in precedence. While there are many benefits provided to college students who are veterans studying in Florida, most of them do not provide full tuition waivers.
Is Florida a Good Place to Go to a Military-Friendly College?
Yes, Florida is a good place to go to a military-friendly college. As previously mentioned, there are 570 post-secondary institutions in Florida that offer educational benefits to veteran college students. These schools provide scholarship awards, tuition waivers, military service to college credit programs, and tuition reductions to military service members and veterans in Florida.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees
Factors Vets Need to Consider When Choosing a School in Florida
- Reputation. Employers care about which school you attend. Attending an elite school can boost your resume and value to potential clients and employers. Make sure that the school and program you choose are nationally or regionally accredited, as federal and state financial aid opportunities are typically limited to accredited schools.
- Availability of school-funded aid. The aid you qualify for may not be sufficient to cover the entire cost of your tuition, especially at a private university. Your best bet is to consider prospective schools that offer scholarships and work-study programs beyond those offered by the state and federal governments.
- Degree levels offered. While pursuing a master’s degree or PhD can be more expensive, holding an advanced degree can give you a significant advantage in your search for employment. Not all schools offer the same degree programs and a small or mid-size school may be more limited in their selection, so choose accordingly.
- Availability of veteran organizations and clubs. Some schools have fewer veteran-oriented services than others. Make sure to research whether or not the schools you are considering provide the resources, such as a student veterans center or veterans affairs office, you need to achieve whatever education goal you have.
- School’s employment outcomes. Your prospective schools should have a high employment outcome and a dedicated career resource center. These centers offer career fairs, job boards, career advising, workshops, and networking events that help their students build their professional resumes, portfolios, and interview skills.
Best Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida at a Glance
College | # of Students Earning Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Average Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded |
---|---|---|
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide | Undergrad: 3,797 Grad: 1,390 |
Undergrad: $6,111 Grad: $5,446 |
Florida Atlantic University | Undergrad: 320 Grad: 85 |
Undergrad: $5,116 Grad: $9,628 |
Florida International University Online | Undergrad: 558 Grad: 217 |
Undergrad: $3,929 Grad: $7,947 |
Florida Institute of Technology Online | Undergrad: 142 Grad: 156 |
Undergrad: $21,118 Grad: $7,174 |
Florida State University | Undergrad: 423 Grad: 247 |
Undergrad: $4,825 Grad: $8,818 |
Jacksonville University | Undergrad: 275 Grad: 74 |
Undergrad: $23,189 Grad: $12,435 |
Saint Leo University | Undergrad: 1,704 Grad: 591 |
Undergrad: $4,667 Grad: $6,406 |
University of Central Florida Online | Undergrad: 1,049 Grad: 158 |
Undergrad: $4,821 Grad: $7,416 |
University of Florida Online | Undergrad: 316 Grad: 344 |
Undergrad: $5,052 Grad: $14,809 |
University of South Florida | Undergrad: 977 Grad: 269 |
Undergrad: $5,102 Grad: $8,517 |
Best Colleges for Veterans in Florida
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university established in 1961 in Boca Raton. This Hispanic-serving institution has a population of over 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across its six campuses. This military-friendly college offers over 170 degree programs at the undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels.
FAU serves around 1,700 veterans, active service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and dependent children at all degree levels. FAU is also a member of the Army ROTC Southern Strike Battalion, which offers leadership courses to service members and veterans. Students get access to the Office of Military and Veteran Affairs and Joint Services Transcript.
Florida Atlantic University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $203.29/credit (Florida resident); $721.84/credit (non-Florida resident)
Graduate Tuition: $371.82/credit (Florida resident); $1,026.81/credit (non-Florida resident)
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 55%
US News National Ranking: #277
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- A dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- A recognized student veteran organization
- Member of service members opportunity colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Florida Atlantic University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 346
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 95
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,223
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $1,212
Florida State University (FSU) is an elite public institution holding an RI designation, according to the Carnegie Commission Classification. FSU was founded in 1851 to provide knowledge in arts, science, and technology disciplines. The school has a population of around 45,500 students across its 283 programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and specialist levels.
As a veteran college, FSU offers veterans and active service members access to a Student Veterans Center, which allows veteran students to take advantage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill educational benefits and the Florida out-of-state tuition waiver. Veterans also gain access to student resources such as academic support, veteran liaisons, and a veteran success course.
Florida State University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $5,616/semester (in-state, 13 credits per semester); $18,746/semester (out-of-state, 13 credits per semester)
Graduate Tuition: $9,580/semester (in-state, 10 credits per semester); $22,220/semester (out-of-state, 10 credits per semester)
Acceptance Rate:37%
Graduation Rate: 83%
US News National Ranking: #55
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Florida State University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 447
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 342
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,141
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,978
Jacksonville University (JU) is a non-profit, private, liberal arts university in Jacksonville founded in 1934. The educational institution has a total enrollment of around 4,200 undergraduate and graduate students originating from all 50 states and 33 different countries. JU offers more than 100 academic majors and minors at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
What makes Jacksonville University a military-friendly college in Florida is its active veteran and military resource center dedicated to providing tuition assistance programs and academic support to each veterans and military student enrolled in its programs including academic advising, career resources, financial resources, counseling, and a student solutions center.
Jacksonville University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $43,520/year (full-time)
Graduate Tuition: $315-$950/credit (in-state), $400-$950/credit (out-of-state)
Acceptance rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 48%
US News Regional Universities South Ranking: #31
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Credit for military training
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Jacksonville University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 281
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 81
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,458
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,494
Saint Leo University is one of the oldest and largest Catholic universities in Florida. Founded in 1889 by The Order of Saint Benedict of Florida, the school has nearly 18,200 on-campus and online students enrolled in its various undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs.
In addition to its flexible and quality academic programs, the school has an active military and veteran center offering educational resources to thousands of its students. Veteran students receive a wide range of military and veteran education benefits and learn in an environment which allows them to develop a sense of camaraderie through various clubs and organizations.
Saint Leo University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,495/semester (full-time)
Graduate Tuition: $530-$825/credit
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 46%
US News Regional Universities South Ranking: #29
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Saint Leo University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 3,332
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 764
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,516
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,263
The University of Florida is a preeminent research university with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. Established in 1956, the school is currently home to around 36,800 undergraduate students and 9,500 students from 146 states. It offers over 200 majors, concentrations, and minors at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
The USF Office of Veteran Success was established to provide academic and career support to enrolled veterans and military students. Students can access their VA education benefits and tuition assistance programs from this center, which hosts veteran student events, employer recruitment sessions, and virtual training sessions.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
University of South Florida Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $27,490/semester (full-time)
Graduate Tuition: $635/credit-$26,290/semester
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 75%
US News National Ranking: #103
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of South Florida
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 1,017
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 304
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,865
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,215
How Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Work?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill was enacted by Congress as an educational assistance program. This federal legislature was designed to provide educational funding to individuals who’ve provided active service duty after September 10, 2001. The program provides educational benefits in the form of monthly stipends for around 36 months to pay for the cost of education or career training.
Who Is Eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
You’re eligible to receive the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you’ve served for up to 90 consecutive or non-consecutive days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001. You’re also eligible if you received a Purple Heart or served continuously for 30 days on or after the same date and were honorably discharged.
As a dependent of a service member or veteran, you can also apply for the GI Bill if a qualified veteran or service member transferred the benefits to you. Members of the Reserve who lost their education benefits after the Reserve Educational Assistance Program was cut off in November of 2015 can still qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
What Does the GI Bill Cover?
The GI Bill can partially or fully cover the cost of your college education, work-study, online classes, and career or trade training depending on the school and program you’re enrolled in. The bill’s monthly stipends can be used toward tuition and educational fees such as standardized tests, housing, relocation for school, counseling, textbooks, and supplies.
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the GI Bill
- You can only use one education benefit (Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty, Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve, DEA, or Post-9/11 GI Bill) for a service period. Once you’ve chosen a benefit, you can change your mind. If you do not choose, one will be assigned to you.
- You can receive educational benefits for a maximum period of 48 months. This stipulation does not cover Employment or Veteran Readiness benefits and, in most cases, you’ll only receive benefits for 36 months.
- Your educational benefits only cover public in-state tuition and fees rates. College students attending a private school or foreign school will receive a capped rate, based on the updated rates for the current year.
- Your GI Bill can expire. If you ended your service before January 1, 2013, your GI Bill will expire 15 years after your last separation date. If you ended on or after January 1, 2013, it cannot expire under the Forever GI Bill law.
- The Post-GI Bill comes with additional benefits which can also be transferred to a spouse or child. You can apply to the Yellow Ribbon Program if you have to cover out-of-state tuition or are attending private school.
Best Online Associate Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-associate-degrees
How to Apply for the GI Bill and Related Benefits
To apply for the GI Bill and related benefits, there are a few steps you’ll need to take. By sending in an application to access your military educational benefits, you’ll be able to find out your eligibility status and what award you qualify for. If you’re ready to pursue your dream career, below is a step-by-step guide to applying for the GI Bill that can get you going.
Step 1: Visit the Veteran Affairs (VA) Website
To receive a meaningful benefit from your GI Bill education benefits, you’ll first need to visit the VA website or your school’s website and familiarize yourself with the application requirements, the terms of the GI Bill, and the schools approved for VA benefits. Some schools provide resources for prospective veterans or service members to help them determine their eligibility.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
You’ll be expected to provide information or documents like your social security number, bank information, educational background, military service history, and information on your prospective college. If you’re active-duty personnel, you’ll need approval from your chain of command or education service office before applying. Veterans may need to include a DD 214 Form.
Step 3: Complete Your Financial Aid Application
You should submit your military education benefits application at the same time as your FAFSA form. It usually takes 45 to 60 days to receive your certificate of eligibility, which allows you to access your benefits. You can apply for the GI Bill and other benefits online, by mail, or in person whether on your own or with the help of your school’s financial aid office.
Step 4: Proceed With Your School Certification Process
Once you’ve received a certificate of eligibility from the VA, you can begin the certification process at your school’s veteran education center. The certification process validates your access to education benefits and specifies which education benefits you’ll use and what degree program it applies to. The VA takes usually takes two to three weeks to process this.
Step 5: Use Your Education Benefits
Once your certification has been processed, your school will receive monthly stipends on your behalf. Keep in mind that the GI Bill isn’t your only financial aid option. A military-friendly college will often provide veteran students access to scholarships and special fee waivers through their Veterans Resource Center.
Best Community Colleges by State
[query_class_embed] best-community-colleges-in-*city/state
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for the GI Bill?
The documents you need to apply for the GI Bill as a veteran, active-duty service member, or military family member include documents that validate your high school or college education, your social security number, your military service history, bank information, and college acceptance or enrollment.
These are the documents you need to apply for the GI Bill:
- Your social security number
- Your education and military history
- Your bank account direct deposit information
- Basic information about the school or training facility you want to attend or are attending now
- You may need to provide a certificate of release or discharge from active duty with a DD Form 214 for all periods of active duty
- If you’re applying for the Montgomery GI Bill for selected reserve, you’ll need a Notice of Basic Eligibility, DD Form 2384
- Copies of your orders if you were activated from the guards or reserves
- A college fund “kicker” contract for additional monthly payments
- Supporting documents, such as bank statements or vouchers, for buy-up or buy-in contributions
What Are the Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida?
The best online military-friendly colleges in Florida offer flexible and diverse degree programs. They often also offer lax application processes to veterans and service members. The online schools listed below offer both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Our top five are based on the best online bachelor’s programs for veterans ranked by US News & World Report.
These are the best online military-friendly colleges in Florida:
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
- Florida Institute of Technology Online
- Florida International University Online
- University of Central Florida Online
- University of Florida Online
Best Online Colleges for Veterans in Florida
The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University was founded in 1925 and has campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona, as well as a worldwide campus for distance learning students. It has an enrollment of over 33,000 students and offers around 100 different academic programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
A leader in aeronautical, engineering, and technology disciplines, ERAU ensures veterans and active service members can pursue their education using their VA education benefits. In addition to being a test-optional school, students at ERAU can use the Joint Services Transcript to maximize their college credits.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
Online Tuition: $250/credit (military) or $465/credit (civilian) for undergraduate students; $648-$773/credit (military) or $773/credit (civilian) for master’s students
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 19%
US News National Ranking: #10 in Regional Universities South
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 12,000 (worldwide); 572 (campus)
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 2,291 (worldwide); 27 (campus)
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,145 (worldwide); $3,506 (campus)
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $1,836
Originally established as the Brevard Engineering College in 1958, the Florida Institute of Technology is a comprehensive research university headquartered in Melbourne. It offers over 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs through four colleges and schools to its around 9,300 students. A large number of its degree programs can be taken fully online.
Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) ensures veteran and military students obtain the support and assistance they need to achieve their personal goals even when enrolled in an online program. The school has a veteran crisis line website, a student success and support center, and a counseling center as well as financial services, admissions, and career services centers.
Florida Institute of Technology Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $510/credit (undergraduate); $777-$896/credit (graduate)
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 66%
US News National Ranking: #202
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Credit for military training
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Florida Institute of Technology
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 147 (campus); 396 (online)
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 620 (campus); 131 (online)
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,024 (campus); $2,316 (online)
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,660 (campus); $2,440 (online)
Florida International University, a public research university in Miami, offers 190 academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels to both online and in-person students through its 19 schools and colleges. This institution was founded in 1965 and today has a student population of over 56,000 students.
The school’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs is dedicated to providing veterans and active service members enrolled in an in-person or online program a seamless educational experience. FIU offers educational plans for all veterans and their beneficiaries, reduced tuition, academic advising, accommodation to reservists and service members, and financial services.
Florida International University Online
Online Tuition: $146.52/credit (undergraduate); $18,300/36 credit hours (graduate, undecided major)
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Graduation Rate: Not reported
US News National Ranking: #162
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Florida International University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 682
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 239
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,101
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,148
The University of Central Florida is a public research university in Orlando, Florida that was founded in 1963. The school currently has over 70,400 on-campus and online students enrolled across the 230 certificate and degree programs it offers through its 13 colleges and schools.
UCF offers enrolled Chapter 33 (Post 9/11) students a Veteran Academic Resource Center (VARC) to aid them in making a seamless transition back to civilian life. This center provides veteran students access to learning and tutoring resources, student centers, work-study programs, and veteran tuition assistance programs.
University of Central Florida Overview
Online Tuition: $105.07/credit (undergraduate, resident); $616.13/credit (undergraduate, non-resident); $288.16/credit (graduate, resident); $1,073.31/credit (graduate, non-resident)
Acceptance Rate: 36%
Graduation Rate: 75%
US News National Ranking: #148
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families.
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Central Florida
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 236
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 1127
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,823
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,332
The University of Florida is an elite land-grant university in Gainesville, Florida. This top-tier research institution was established in 1853 and currently has around 34,900 undergraduate and 18,500 graduate students enrolled at its in-site and online campuses. The school offers a total of 200 graduate degree programs, 100 undergraduate programs, and 30 certificate programs.
UF’s Office of Student Veteran Affairs serves as a liaison between the school, its students, and the various local, state, and federal agencies. The school’s veterans affairs office offers tuition assistance programs, transcript fee waivers, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and the Forever GI Bill.
University of Florida Online
Online Tuition: $129.18/credit (undergraduate, residents); $552.62/credit (undergraduate, non-residents); $425-$1,500/credit (graduate)
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 72%
US News National Ranking: #28
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program, officially known as the Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Florida
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 330 (Campus); 161 (online)
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 424
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,631 (Campus); $1,614 (online)
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,188
Can I Get College Credit for My Military Training?
Yes, you can get college credit for your military training as long as you’re an active-duty service member, a member of the reserves, or a veteran. All you have to do is request your official transcript from the military branch in which you served and forward it to your school of choice. Keep in mind that your credits can only be applied to a degree program.
The American Council on Education (ACE) reviews military experience and training to award college credits. This credit guide is followed by colleges in awarding credits. The primary benefit attached to earning college credits from military service is the opportunity to shorten your program completion timeline and reduce the overall cost of your tuition.
As a Vet, Do I Have to Meet the Same Requirements as Regular Students?
Yes, you’ll be required to meet the same admission and degree requirements as regular students in most schools. You’ll still have to submit your college application within the allotted time frame. You’ll also have to meet the same enrollment and graduation eligibility requirements as regular students, especially in terms of your grade point average and test scores.
The veteran organizations at your school can help you convert your military training to college credits, get tuition aid for your degree program, and influence the admissions decisions through your supplemental documents. If you’re looking for a flexible educational experience, you should consider enrolling in a hybrid or online degree program.
Applying to College: 5 Tips for Veteran Students
The basic thing you should know as a prospective veteran student is that you have what it takes to succeed as a civilian, and more importantly, a student. With that said, here are the five tips you need to make your transition seamless.
- Decide what state you want to go to school in. When choosing which state you want to study in, you need to consider how it ranks in terms of education, economy, and fiscal stability. According to the US news report, Florida ranks among the top ten states for these factors, making it a great place to study.
- Apply early for your military benefits. As military personnel, a dependent, or a spouse, you can access financial aid from the US government. Because the time to process these financial aid packages can go up to two months, applying early or at the same time as you apply for the FAFSA is highly recommended.
- Consider your academic and career goals. Your chosen major and degree type can often depend on the nature of your service. If you’re still serving, you should choose a discipline that allows you to build specialized technical skills that boost your value. If you’re no longer serving, you should explore a discipline that aligns with your passions.
- Pick a college that offers many student services. Aside from comparing your GI Bill benefits, you should also review each school’s student services such as their learning facilities, career services, veteran services, student organizations, and co-op programs. A school high in the national school rankings can boost your value to potential employers.
- Emphasize your value through your college application. Being a member of the military community has its benefits during admissions. Your college essay is a great place where you can give an insight into your experience and how it has sharpened your leadership skills, community involvement, and learning abilities.
Best Colleges and Universities by State
[query_class_embed] best-universities-in-*state
Should You Attend a Military-Friendly School in Florida?
Yes, you should attend a military-friendly school in Florida. Florida is one of the most pro-military states in the country. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, Florida is the state with the third-highest veteran population. Most colleges and universities in Florida provide a wide range of educational support and financial aid programs to both in-state and out-of-state veteran students.
Beyond that, you can look forward to gainful employment in Florida as soon as you graduate. Florida has one of the best employment rates for veterans in the country, according to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, 42 percent of the state’s veteran and military population in the civilian labor force is employed.
Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida FAQ
Yes, Florida is a military-friendly state. Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and dependents can look forward to plenty of veteran services and aid from the state including retirement pay, college counseling, nursing and assisted living facilities, recreational benefits, life insurance, reemployment benefits, and a military-friendly and veterans resource guide.
The best college for active-duty military personnel is an accredited college offering a supportive environment for military personnel and their affiliates. Community colleges and four-year schools in Florida offer military tuition reduction and assistance programs. Schools like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the University of Central Florida are at the top of the heap.
The best course for military service is any applied discipline that allows you to apply your skills and knowledge to solving complex issues in the military. Technical majors like strategic intelligence, cyber security, criminal justice, nursing, finance, aviation, information technology, business management, and psychology are highly beneficial.
Yes, it is better to go to college before joining the military because of the hands-on skills and experience it offers you. With a college education, you’ll more easily be able to access higher-up positions while serving.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.