A military-friendly school is an academic institution that provides student support for veterans, service members, and spouses and dependents of veterans. It offers special benefits to veterans such as health services, financial assistance, and credits for military experience. If you want to find the best military-friendly colleges in New York, you should read our guide.
You can easily find schools that honor government-funded benefits for veterans. But finding a school that seeks to provide the best college experience for veterans enables you to make the best of your degree. This article contains a list of the best colleges for veterans in New York, types of financial aid for veterans, and how to gain admission to veteran-friendly schools.
Is It Hard to Get Into a Military-Friendly College in New York?
No, it is not hard to get into a military-friendly college in New York. Military-friendly colleges value the transferable skills and experiences that veterans developed during military service. However, veterans must meet the same college admissions requirements as regular students to get into their school of choice.
Funding for Military-Friendly Schools in New York
According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, there are over 1,000 military-friendly schools in New York. The best colleges for veterans looking for a tech career in New York include Columbia University in the City of New York, City University of New York, New York Institute of Technology, New York University, and Adelphi University.
These programs currently offer benefits for veterans’ education in New York:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty (MGIB-AD)
- Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
- Post-Vietnam Era Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
- National Call to Service (NCS)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
Is College Free in New York if You Are a Veteran?
Yes, college is free in New York if you are a veteran. New York State offers Veteran Tuition Awards that cover the full cost of undergraduate programs at the University of New York. However, veterans have to meet terms and conditions before they can qualify for the award.
There is also financial assistance that can pay some or all of the money military service members need to cover tuition and other schooling costs. This includes the GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty, and Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve.
Is New York a Good Place to Go to a Military-Friendly College?
Yes, New York is a good place to go to a military-friendly college. It is home to 655 military-friendly schools with student veteran groups and Yellow Ribbon programs. New York ranks number ten on the list of most GI Bill students, according to the Department of Veteran Affairs. It has 23,330 students enrolled in public, private, and for-profit schools.
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Factors Vets Need to Consider When Choosing a School in New York
- Strong financial support for vets. Not all military-friendly schools offer strong Yellow Ribbon programs. You should ensure that the school shows a significant level of support and financial assistance for the veteran community.
- Active veteran center and veteran community. A major indicator that a school is military-friendly is the presence of an office of veteran affairs. This office tends to the needs of veteran students and allows for a smooth transition from military service to college education.
- Military-specific academic assistance. Military-friendly schools in New York should allow veteran students to transform their military experience into credits. This can help you save money and complete the program faster.
- Flexibility and scheduling. Look for schools that have programs suited to your life and schedule. Do you prefer part-time or full-time programs? Do you prefer online or in-person programs? Select schools that provide the freedom to earn the degree at your own pace.
- Career services. Prospective students need to consider the career resources that a school offers to prepare students for life after graduation. This includes academic advising, career training services, and networking.
Best Military-Friendly Colleges in New York at a Glance
| College | # of Students Earning Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Average Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University in the City of New York | Undergrad: 270Grad: 191 | Undergrad: $24,805Grad: $21,112 |
| Cornell University | Undergrad: 104Grad: 102 | Undergrad: $32,029Grad: $24,897 |
| City University of New York (CUNY) Queens College | Undergrad: 134Grad: 15 | Undergrad: $5,486Grad: $6,358 |
| Fordham University | Undergrad: 204Grad: 124 | Undergrad: $25,770Grad: $26,953 |
| Manhattan College | Undergrad: 88Grad: 18 | Undergrad: $23,604Grad: $12,617 |
| Mercy College | Undergrad: 114Grad: 52 | Undergrad: $15,979Grad: $14,890 |
| Monroe College | Undergrad: 97Grad: 10 | Undergrad: $17,089Grad: $16,953 |
| New York University | Undergrad: 218Grad: 322 | Undergrad: $22,039Grad: $19,181 |
| Pace University | Undergrad: 170Grad: 115 | Undergrad: $31,956Grad: $19,874 |
| Syracuse University | Undergrad: 223Grad: 479 | Undergrad: $30,636Grad: $19,947 |
Best Colleges for Veterans in New York
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is the fifth-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. It stands out as one of the most distinguished centers of research in the world. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in many fields. It has a total enrollment of 31,455 students.
It provides college education to military students through its School of General Studies. The School of General Studies was established more than 70 years ago to provide an opportunity for military service members to contribute their life experiences in the classroom and increase the diversity and cultural richness of the school.
Columbia University in the City of New York Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $2,014/credit
Graduate Tuition: $2,074/credit
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Graduation Rate: 97%
US News National Ranking: N/A
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Columbia University in the City of New York
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 273
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 196
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,917
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,925
Cornell University was founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White. It is a private research institution in New York offering a wide range of academic degrees. It has a primary mission to improve the quality of life in the nation. It has a total student enrollment of 23,620 students.
This school has been active in military education as far back as 1862. It offers programs in military science. It also offers various academic degrees to undergraduate and graduate student veterans and servicemembers.
Cornell University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $41,958/year (in state), $62,456/year (out of state)
Graduate Tuition: $62,456/year
Acceptance Rate: 9%
Graduation Rate: 94%
US News National Ranking: #17
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Cornell University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 104
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 102
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
CUNY Queens College was founded in 1937. It is one of the most culturally diverse schools in the country. It prepares students to become leaders in the global society through rigorous education. It offers a wide variety of academic programs in different fields including arts, math and natural science, education, social science, and business.
It provides an awesome learning experience for veterans, military personnel, and dependent students. It has Veteran Support Services, which were specifically created to address the needs of veterans. This office provides academic and supportive services including GI Bill benefits, tuition bill deferments, veterans outreach, and benefits navigation support.
CUNY Queens College Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $305/credit (in state), $620/credit (out of state)
Graduate Tuition: $470/credit (in state), $855/credit (out of state)
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 55%
US News Regional Ranking: #50
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at CUNY Queens College
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 149
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 16
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,240
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Fordham University is a private Catholic school founded in 1841. It has a total enrollment of 16,986 students in undergraduate, graduate, and professional certificate programs. It provides education that sharpens talents and prepares students for meaningful careers.
This school offers a veterans initiative which includes the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program, and transferability of educational benefits from veterans to their spouses or children. These benefits pay for the tuition costs of graduate and undergraduate students. It is capped at $26,042 for an academic year.
Fordham University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $1,897/credit
Graduate Tuition: $1,950/credit
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 83%
US News National Ranking: #68
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Fordham University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 205
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 126
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
New York University was established in 1831. It is one of the most respected postsecondary institutions in the world. It is one of the largest private universities in the country, with over 65,000 students and more international students than any other US college. It offers over 400 academic programs.
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This school offers a great learning environment for military students to chase their academic and personal goals. It is a member of the Department of Defense (DOD) Voluntary Education Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Veteran Students enjoy a host of education benefits including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Dependents Educational Assistance, and more.
New York University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $1,630/credit
Graduate Tuition: $2,074/credit
Acceptance Rate: 13%
Graduation Rate: 87%
US News National Ranking: #28
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at New York University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 220
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 327
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $1,838
How Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Work?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill was signed into law in 2008. It provides financial and social assistance to veterans and their family members. It helps veterans and their family members to cover all or some of their schooling expenses.
Who Is Eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
According to Veterans Affairs, you are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you served at least 90 days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001, received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, or were honorably discharged with a service-connected disability on or after September 11, 2001. Dependents of eligible veterans may also qualify for GI Bill benefits.
What Does the GI Bill Cover?
The GI Bill covers tuition costs, monthly housing allowance, books and supplies, and a one-time rural benefit for qualifying veterans. Students in public colleges and universities receive full coverage of their in-state tuition, but students in private schools receive up to $24,276 per academic year.
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the GI Bill
- You have to use your GI Bill benefits before they expire. From the day you leave the military, you have a limited time to use your GI Bill benefits. For instance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill lasts for 15 years after you leave the military, while the Montgomery GI Bill lasts for 10 years after you leave the military.
- The GI Bill isn’t traditional federal aid. Unlike traditional federal aid, GI Bill benefits may not be paid directly to the school. The Post-9/11 GI Bill is paid directly to the school, but Montgomery GI Bill benefits go to the students. Student veterans can also seek other federal aid.
- You don’t have to stay enrolled in school to access the full benefits of the GI Bill. You can take a break from school and later reapply for the GI Bill benefits when you are ready to resume. As long as you use the GI Bill benefits within the given time limit, you are good to go.
- GI Bill benefits depend on the credit load, the school you go to, and how much active-duty service you have had since September 10, 2001.
- The monthly benefits depend on the GI Bill program. For instance, veterans with Post-9/11 receive a monthly stipend based on attendance and type of school. On the other hand, the Montgomery GI Bill has a fixed rate payment per month.
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How to Apply for the GI Bill and Related Benefits
You should learn how to apply for GI Bill benefits if you are planning to utilize them for your college education. The following steps will take you through the whole process and help you to know what to expect.
Step 1: Find out If You Are Eligible
The first step is to learn about GI Bill eligibility requirements and find out if you meet the requirements to get this benefit. You can benefit from the GI Bill if you are an active duty service member or veteran, a member of the National Guard, or a dependent of an eligible service member.
Step 2: Learn about the Available Military Benefits at the School
Search and apply to a school that is approved to receive veteran benefits. You can employ the VA’s School Comparison Tool to find schools where the GI Bill applies. If you are unsure if the school you are interested in has military benefits, you can reach out to their admissions team.
Step 3: Apply Online
You can apply online through the vets.gov website. You must submit your Social Security number, bank account direct deposit information, education and military history, and basic information about the school you are attending or waiting to attend.
Before applying for the GI Bill, you may need to get approval from the Education Service Office (ESO) or the appropriate chain of command if you are on active service. Veterans may need to include a copy of their DD 214 Discharge Paperwork.
Step 4: Wait for the Certificate of Eligibility
It takes roughly 30 days for the VA to process your application and notify you of your eligibility status. Then, you receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Step 5: Submit the Certificate of Eligibility
You will take the COE to the school’s GI Bill Certifying Official who will then send your enrollment information to the VA to process the Enrollment Verification form VA Form 22-1999. After the VA processes your GI Bill application, you can enjoy your financial aid.
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What Documents Do I Need to Apply for the GI Bill?
After confirming your eligibility status, you will still need to gather documents and other necessary information to continue the application. You cannot receive your benefits without these required documents.
These are the documents you need to apply for the GI Bill:
- Social Security number
- Bank account direct deposit information
- Education and military history
- Basic information about the school or training facility you want to attend or are attending now
What Are the Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges in New York?
Depending on their preferences, veteran students can choose to pursue on-campus degrees or online degrees. There are numerous military-friendly colleges in New York that offer a wide range of effective programs for online students if that’s what you’re looking for.
These are the best online military-friendly colleges in New York:
- Manhattan College
- Mercy College
- Monroe College
- Pace University
- Syracuse University
Best Online Colleges for Veterans in New York
Founded in 1853 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Manhattan College has established itself as a postsecondary institution that provides quality education to everyone. It offers over 100 academic programs in many fields including education, engineering, healthcare, politics, STEM, and liberal arts. It has a total enrollment of 3,166 students.
Manhattan College offers strong academic support for veterans and military service members. It offers several programs, such as the Yellow Ribbon Program, to help veteran students to pay for academic majors. It organizes a special program, called Military Monday, which provides academic counseling and an easy admission process for veterans students.
Manhattan College Overview
Online Tuition: $44,100/year
Acceptance Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 77%
US News Regional Ranking: #13
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Manhattan College
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 88
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 18
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Mercy College was founded in 1950. It is home to five schools including the School of Business, School of Education, School of Health and Natural Sciences, School of Liberal Arts, and School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. These schools offer various programs across different academic disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels.
This school has more than 40 online degree programs in different academic fields. Veteran students can get online degrees such as computer science, cyber security, education, and counseling. It also offers courses that are specifically for veterans who want to advance their education during and after service.
Mercy College Overview
Online Tuition: $10,259/term
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 50%
US News Regional Ranking: #131-171
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Mercy College
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 117
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 54
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,583
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Monroe College ranks as one of the best colleges for Veterans on the US News and World Reports Regional Universities North. It has a reputation for delivering exceptional yet affordable degree programs. It offers a wide array of programs including health, criminal justice, hospitality, IT, and business. It has a total enrollment of more than 8,000, including 350 army veterans.
This school is a great military-friendly online college offering veterans online degrees. It has one of the highest veteran student populations in New York. It offers twenty fully online degree programs across different disciplines. Veteran students also benefit from the College’s Office of Veteran and Active Duty Affairs and academic advisors specifically for military veterans.
Monroe College Overview
Online Tuition: $7,488/semester
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Graduation Rate: 57%
US News National Ranking: #148
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Monroe College
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 97
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 10
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Founded in 1906, Pace University started as an accounting school. Currently, it offers a wide variety of academic programs across different degrees and industries. It provides excellent learning experiences so students can achieve their educational and career goals. It has a total enrollment of over 13,700 students.
Pace University offers a comprehensive selection of online undergraduate, graduate, and professional certificate programs to veteran students. Students can choose from different majors including engineering, arts, business, and computer science. It offers veterans awards and benefits like the Veteran Tuition Scholarship Program, which covers 50 percent of tuition.
Pace University Overview
Online Tuition: $570/credit
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 59%
US News National Ranking: #213
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Pace University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 172
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 117
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Syracuse University is a great place for veterans to study. It has 13 schools and colleges offering over 200 majors and online programs that can be customized to meet the learning needs of students. It offers a wide range of degrees that provide hands-on research experiences and knowledge that widen a student’s perspective and prepare them for academic excellence.
This school has around 1,000 veterans and military-connected students pursuing academic degrees at different levels. It offers a wide number of initiatives to support veteran students. This includes the Orange Door Liaison program, Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE), Student Veteran Organization (SVO), and The Wohl Family Veterans Legal Clinic.
Syracuse University Overview
Online Tuition: $6,666/semester
Acceptance Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 82%
US News National Ranking: #59
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Syracuse University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 268
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 501
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $1,993
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,102
Can I Get College Credit for My Military Training?
Yes, you can get college credit for military training. Army veterans and active-duty members of the military can convert their military experience into college credits that apply to a degree. Getting college credit for your military training can help you to save time and allow you to complete a degree in less time. You will take fewer courses, allowing you to save on tuition.
If you want to get college credits for military experience, we recommend that you diligently search for colleges that allow you to get the most value from your military experience. Find out the maximum number of transfer credits that the school accepts and how your military experience relates to your program of study.
As a Vet, Do I Have to Meet the Same Requirements as Regular Students?
Yes, vets have to meet the same requirements as regular students. You should talk with the school’s admissions counselor to iron out the details of the admissions process for veterans. Typical admissions requirements include military transcripts and a letter of recommendation from a military supervisor.
Veterans who have taken college classes after graduating from high school may be allowed to apply as transfer students. Others who have taken only a few classes or no classes at all have to apply as a freshman.
Applying to College: 5 Tips for Veteran Students
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be a tough experience, especially when you consider the lengthy and bureaucratic process of seeking admission into a university. Here are five tips to help student veterans ease into college life.
- Find military-friendly schools. You need to find out for yourself if a school actually provides the support that veteran students need. Do not believe the “military-friendly” label until you know for sure that the school delivers the best educational services and career outcomes for veterans.
- Apply for GI Bill benefits early. It is best to apply for the GI Bill as early as you can. The application process can take as long as six months depending on the request load. To be on the safe side and get your benefits early, you should apply as soon as you are ready to go to school.
- Join the school veteran community. A great way to ease into college is to join the student veteran community. Meet with other veterans at the school to get guidance and advice on college.
- Set educational goals. You should have a clear goal on what you want to achieve in college. By knowing what you want to get, you will be able to make smarter decisions on where to apply and what degrees to pursue.
- Learn soft skills. Civilian life and military life have significant differences in communication standards, language, and dressing. It is not unusual for army veterans to experience culture shock when they enroll in a college. Learning soft skills can ease the transition and make it less shocking.
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Should You Attend a Military-Friendly School in New York?
Yes, you should attend a military-friendly school in New York because it delivers the education that army veterans need to transition into civilian life. It prepares them to chase their career goals after completing active duty in the military and sets them up for success in other areas of their life.
Military-Friendly Colleges in New York FAQ
Yes, NYU is military friendly. It offers a great learning experience for veteran students to earn academic degrees. It also provides different benefits to veterans including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Reserve Education Assistance Program, and Vocational Rehabilitation.
Some of the best colleges in New York that support the military are New York University, Syracuse University, Pace University, and Columbia University in the City of New York. All the schools mentioned in this guide are good education options for army veterans.
You can join the military before college, after college, or even during active duty. No fixed rule determines when you go to college. It depends on your goals. If you aspire to become an officer, you need to have a college degree. On the other hand, if you can’t afford college, joining the military and using the GI Bill is a great option.
Yes, you can do college and the military. Active-duty military service members can enroll in an online, military-friendly college to take classes and earn a degree. Enrolling in college during your military career can spur you toward your professional goals, increase personal development, and lead to a promotion in rank and pay.
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