Starting your college education as a veteran may be daunting, but this detailed guide on military-friendly colleges in Texas will help you get your journey started. Many of the best military-friendly colleges will accept education benefit programs provided by the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA).
Active-duty military members and veterans who are prospective students can start their college careers in some of the best military colleges in Texas. Many offer tuition assistance programs and military scholarships. If your educational goals include anything from a certificate program to a doctorate, you can find what you need in military-friendly colleges in Texas.
Some of the best colleges for veterans in Texas have vital support services in place to provide veterans with assistance in their academic goals. This article details Texas’ best military colleges, including tuition, acceptance rates, and graduation rates.
Is It Hard to Get Into a Military-Friendly College in Texas?
No, it is not hard to get into a military-friendly college. Most universities have an average acceptance rate between 54 and 87 percent. This number is relatively high, but there are a few military colleges with low acceptance rates, between nine and 29 percent.
Each college has a different acceptance rate, retention rate, admission procedure, and policies. There are many ways to increase your chances of getting accepted into a good college that is military-friendly. One way is to apply to multiple colleges to increase your chance of admission.
Funding for Military-Friendly Schools in Texas
There are approximately 688 military-friendly colleges in Texas, according to the US department of Veteran Affairs. There are currently four active programs that provide veterans, reservists, and certain family members of veterans with resources to help them pay for college in Texas.
The best colleges for veterans in Texas accept these education benefits for graduate and undergraduate students. During the 2022 fiscal year, the US Department of Veteran Affairs had a budget of $253 million for military education benefit programs.
These programs currently offer benefits for veterans’ education in Texas:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Educational Assistance for Members of the Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
- All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program (MGIB-AD)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
Is College Free in Texas if You Are a Veteran?
No, college is not entirely free for veterans in Texas unless they have served in the military for at least 36 months. Veterans who have served for 36 months or more qualify for 100 percent cover for tuition, housing, and book supplies with the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Veterans who don’t qualify for full tuition can apply for scholarships and other financial aid to cover the remaining college tuition costs. The Hazlewood Act is a Texas state benefit that gives qualifying veterans and family members up to 150 credit hours for free.
Is Texas a Good Place to Go to a Military-Friendly College?
Yes, Texas is an excellent place to go to a military-friendly college because there are many military-friendly colleges in the state. Veteran students pursuing a degree in Texas can access state and federal benefits. There are 688 colleges for veterans in Texas that are VA-approved.
The federal government provides four veteran benefit programs, and The Hazlewood Act is a Texas state benefit. During the 2020 fiscal year, the VA provided veteran educational benefits to 85,093 students. Almost 70,000 of those students received benefits from the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
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Factors Vets Need to Consider When Choosing a School in Texas
- Accreditation. Accreditation means a school meets specific education standards and has been reviewed by an accrediting organization. Finding a school that is accredited will ensure you receive high-quality instruction.
- Career services. Career services assist with student success, and they will be interested in positive outcomes for veterans. Universities with career services will help you prepare for your next job interview, write a good resume, and give you career coaching.
- Types of degrees and majors. Find a university with your desired degree level and a program that interests you. You’ll find an associate degree in a community college in Texas and a bachelor’s degree or higher at a university.
- Support system for veterans. School should be a welcoming experience, so find a school with a strong support system for veterans. Many educational institutions have student organizations, mental health services, and academic advising to support veterans through college.
- Reputation. You can determine a school’s reputation by checking the school reviews, university rankings, and graduation rates. The most prestigious universities in Texas will have a high ranking on US News & World Report.
Best Military-Friendly Colleges in Texas at a Glance
| College | # of Students Earning Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Average Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Rice University | Undergrad: 21 Grad: 106 |
Undergrad: $38,201 Grad: $29,058 |
| Texas A&M University | Undergrad: 1,036 Grad: 303 |
Undergrad: $9,986 Grad: $14,620 |
| Texas Christian University | Undergrad: 321 Grad: 80 |
Undergrad: $35,197 Grad: $22,487 |
| Texas State University | Undergrad: 1,238Grad: 166 | Undergrad: $7,834Grad: $5,500 |
| Texas Tech University | Undergrad: 555 Grad: 110 |
Undergrad: $8,789 Grad: $9,155 |
| University of Dallas | Undergrad: 17 Grad: 40 |
Undergrad: $17,162 Grad: $11,998 |
| University of Houston | Undergrad: 547 Grad: 75 |
Undergrad: $9,647 Grad: $15,124 |
| University of North Texas | Undergrad: 1,034 Grad: 164 |
Undergrad: $9,155 Grad: $6,794 |
| University of Texas – Austin | Undergrad: 389 Grad: 128 |
Undergrad: $5,154 Grad: $11,580 |
| University of Texas – Dallas | Undergrad: 381 Grad: 144 |
Undergrad: $11,802 Grad: $13,444 |
Best Colleges for Veterans in Texas
Since it began in 1891, this university is now one of the top 20 universities in the US. Students at Rice University have many degree options, with 50 undergraduate majors in social sciences, architecture, political science, and engineering. Students at this university receive high-quality education because it has small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio of six-to-one.
Rice University is an incredible college for veterans. It has many different programs to help veterans and children of veterans pay for their college education. The school upholds the Hazlewood Act, which ensures educational benefits to veterans that get into Rice University. It has a veteran tuition deferment request program which means veterans can request to pay their tuition late without additional fees.
Rice University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $2,170/credit
Graduate Tuition: $1,945/credit
Acceptance Rate: 9%
Graduation Rate: 92%
US News National Ranking: #17
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post 9/11 GI Bill
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Rice University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 21
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 106
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Texas Christian University has a student body of almost 12,000. The school offers 116 undergraduate, 65 master’s, and 38 PhD programs. Students enrolled in this university can pursue degrees in accounting, business administration, and nursing. The low student-to-faculty ratio of 13-to-one allows students to work closely with highly qualified faculty.
This university has many excellent resources and support services for veteran students, such as the Center for Career & Professional Development and mental health resources. Students who are veterans have access to eight different education benefit programs. Texas Christian University holds many events throughout the year to honor veteran students.
Texas Christian University Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $1,870/credit
Graduate Tuition: $1,870/credit
Acceptance Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 83%
US News National Ranking: #83
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Credit for military training
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Texas Christian University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 321
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 80
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: N/A
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: N/A
This university currently has 2,489 enrolled students. The University of Dallas offers over 21 undergraduate majors and 20 graduate programs in humanities, education, and nursing. Students work closely with faculty because the undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is 11-to-one.
The University of Dallas has seven education benefit programs for veterans and has a veteran service connecting with other veterans attending the university. They have access to a counseling center and career development center.
University of Dallas Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $650/credit
Graduate Tuition: $1,250/credit
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 72%
US News National Ranking: #6 (Regional Universities West)
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Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Dallas
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 17
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 40
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the top ten public universities in the US, according to US News & World Report. It offers 156 undergraduate degree programs and over 237 graduate programs to its 51,991 students. This university also has over 1,300 student organizations.
The University of Texas at Austin has high-quality career services and offers free tutoring and counseling for veterans. Veteran students at this university can apply for the Hazlewood Act tuition exemption. It can also connect students with the Student Veteran Association and the Veteran Advisor Council.
University of Texas at Austin Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $1,632-$2,041/credit (in state), $5,802-$6,980/credit (out of state)
Graduate Tuition: $1,177-$1,469/credit (in state), $1,822-$2,082/credit (out of state)
Acceptance Rate: 29%
Graduation Rate: 88%
US News National Ranking: #38
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Texas at Austin
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 390
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 140
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: N/A
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $4,259
The University of Texas at Dallas is an excellent public university with 29,698 students. It offers 56 bachelor’s, 59 master’s, and 30 PhD programs. Students can pursue degrees in social sciences, liberal arts, cyber security, engineering, and math. This university has a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 24-to-one.
The school has many education benefit programs for students and a military and veteran center. The military and veteran center offers academic advising, career services, and other wonderful resources and support.
University of Texas at Dallas Overview
Undergraduate Tuition: $1,917/credit (in state), $5,219/credit (out of state)
Graduate Tuition: $1,866/credit (in state), $2,765/credit (out of state)
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 72%
US News National Ranking: #136
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Texas at Dallas
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 394
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 147
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,038
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $5,667
How Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Work?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is an education benefit program for veteran students who have served in the military. The GI Bill provides education benefits for up to 36 months and is for veterans who served in the military after September 10, 2001. It is a program that helps veterans pay for their college education or job training.
Who Is Eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
Only honorably discharged military personnel qualify for these benefits. They must have served 30 consecutive days of service, received a Purple Heart, or served 90 days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001. Dependents of veterans are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
What Does the GI Bill Cover?
The GI Bill covers tuition, provides a monthly housing allowance, and covers books and supplies. The benefit percentage depends on how long students served in the military. Students who served at least 36 months in the military will receive 100 percent coverage for expenses, while students who served 90 days will get 40 percent of their education expenses covered.
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the GI Bill
- Military students have up to 15 years to use the Post-9/11 GI Bill from their discharge date if they end military service before January 1, 2013. Veterans discharged after January 1, 2013, don’t have a time limit due to a new law called the Forever GI Bill.
- The GI Bill isn’t considered federal financial aid. Veterans can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans alongside their military benefits.
- You do not need to use your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at once. If you need to stop your college education or job training, you can reapply for the benefits at a later stage.
- The payment amount you receive from the GI Bill depends on the number of college credits you have enrolled in and the time you served.
- The Post-9/11 GI Bill gives most veterans education benefits for up to 36 months, but some students are eligible for benefits for a maximum of 48 months.
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How to Apply for the GI Bill and Related Benefits
You need to follow a few application steps when applying for the GI Bill and other related benefits. Follow the step-by-step guide below when applying for the GI Bill and related military benefits.
Step 1: Apply to a College Approved for Veteran Affairs Benefits
The first step to applying for the GI Bill is finding a school you would like to attend. Once you find prospective schools, you should apply for admission. You can find specific admission requirements on the school’s official website. Ensure to research these requirements carefully, as some schools may need you to have a good GPA as well.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
You will need a few documents for your VA education benefits application. Usually, the application form requires your social security number and bank account direct deposit information. Before starting the application form, research the official Veteran Affairs website to find out which documents you need.
Step 3: Fill in the VA Education Benefits Application Form
Once you have gathered all the essential documents, you can start completing the VA education benefits application form online. Once the application form is complete, you will wait for your certificate of eligibility.
Step 4: Receive the Certificate of Eligibility
The Veteran Affairs will review your application form, which can take 30 days or more to process. They may also request additional information and documents if needed. Once the review process is complete, you will receive your certificate of eligibility in the mail.
Step 5: Send the Certificate of Eligibility to Your University
Once you have received your certificate of eligibility, you will need to send it to the university you have chosen to attend. The school will then work on your enrollment and send your information to the VA. If you do not understand the VA benefits you receive, you can ask the veteran office at your school for help.
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What Documents Do I Need to Apply for the GI Bill?
To apply for the GI Bill, you will need your social security number, bank account direct deposit information, your military and education history, and basic information about your school of choice. You will receive an email request if the VA needs any other documents for your application.
These are the documents you need to apply for the GI Bill:
- Direct deposit bank account information
- Social security number
- Military and education history
- Basic information about your preferred university
What Are the Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges in Texas?
The best online military-friendly colleges in Texas can help veterans receive a high-quality education at a reasonable cost. These online schools in Texas enable veterans to earn a degree without leaving home. Find the list of the best online military-friendly colleges in Texas below.
These are the best online military-friendly colleges in Texas:
- Texas A&M University
- Texas State University
- Texas Tech University
- University of Houston
- University of North Texas
Best Online Colleges for Veterans in Texas
Texas A&M University is a public institution that opened in 1876. It currently has 73,284 students enrolled and offers many online degree options. Students can choose from 57 online degrees and 47 certificate programs. They can pursue degrees in nursing, engineering, and business administration.
Veteran students at Texas A&M University have access to academic advising to help them transition into college. The school offers students career counseling and a Military in Texas waiver. Students can also apply for the Hazlewood exemption act and Yellow Ribbon program.
Texas A&M University Overview
Online Tuition: $333/credit (undergraduate); $555/credit (graduate) (Varies per program)
Acceptance Rate: 64%
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 servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Texas A&M University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 1,052
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 325
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,046
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,248
Texas State University is one of the only schools in Texas that graduated a US president. It is well known for its high-quality online Master of Social Work. There are currently 38,000 students enrolled in on-campus, hybrid, and online programs.
This highly reputable university has many valuable resources and services available for military students. It has many military benefits and numerous scholarships that help veterans afford and pay for their college degrees. Texas State University has a veterans advisory council connecting staff and students who want to help veterans and the military community during their education.
Texas State University Overview
Online Tuition: $307/credit hour (in state), $715/credit (out of state)
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 57%
US News National Ranking: #299-391
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Texas State University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 1268
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 175
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,434
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,547
Texas Tech University has 40,666 students currently enrolled and offers 150 undergraduate, 100 graduate, 50 doctoral degrees, and over 40 online programs. This Hispanic-serving institution is known for having many online doctoral degrees available.
Texas Tech has a veterans resource center and a veterans student organization called Students for Veterans Health. At Texas Tech University, veteran students have access to federal education benefits and the Hazlewood exemption act.
Texas Tech University Overview
Online Tuition: $234/credit (undergraduate), $284/credit (graduate)
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 63%
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 servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Texas Tech University
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 585
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 121
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,448
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,026
This university has been a leader in providing distance education since 1953. It offers over 50 online degrees and ranks as one of the top colleges for online graduate degrees. More than 47,000 students at the University of Houston are pursuing in-person and online programs.
The University of Houston has many educational benefits for veterans and dependents of veterans. This university offers support services for veterans, such as counseling and a Student Veterans of America program. Texas state residents who are veterans can also make use of the Hazlewood Act.
University of Houston Overview
Online Tuition: $420/credit (resident), $928/credit (non-resident)
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 62%
US News National Ranking: #179
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Houston
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 557
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 77
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,375
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: N/A
University of North Texas students have many online and on-campus degree options in accounting, education, criminal justice, and more. This university was established in 1890 and currently has over 42,000 students. It offers 86 online programs and is known for its affordable online master's degrees. This university has one of the best accelerated master's degrees.
This school has excellent support and programs to help veterans through their college education. Students can access student veteran services such as enrollment support. The University of North Texas has six veteran education benefit programs, and it is a Purple Heart University.
University of North Texas Overview
Online Tuition: $567/credit
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 60%
US News National Ranking: #277
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of North Texas
Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 1,086
Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 189
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,128
Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,581
Can I Get College Credit for My Military Training?
Yes, you can get college credit for your military training and experience. The school determines how many college credits you get for military training. Most schools will accept military training for college credit, but some schools do not do this. Students should do thorough research on the school.
When you request your military transcripts, the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Department of Defense will review your military transcripts and recommend the number of credits to your school of choice. This number depends on your degree type and whether the school accepts military training as college credits.
As a Vet, Do I Have to Meet the Same Requirements as Regular Students?
Yes, veterans have to meet the same admission requirements as all other regular students. Each university has a different admission process, but most universities will have similar requirements for all students. You can find specific admission requirements on your preferred school’s official website.
Universities and colleges hold all students to the same standard while pursuing their degrees. To graduate, veterans must meet all the same degree requirements as regular students. There are, however, free tutoring services for veterans at some colleges that provide extra support to veterans who need it.
Applying to College: 5 Tips for Veteran Students
If you are a military veteran interested in attending a college, there are a few valuable tips you should follow during the application process. Below are five essential tips for veterans applying to college.
- Search for a military-friendly college that accepts military experience credits. You should try to find a school that supports veterans and accepts transfer credits from military experience. Ensure the school you apply to is a GI Bill-approved school because not all schools accept military benefits.
- Apply for GI Bill education benefits early. There are many different GI Bill benefit programs, which can be tricky to understand. Apply for these military benefits early so that you have time to fully understand your benefits and receive them in time for enrollment.
- Seek financial aid. Education benefits for veterans do not count as federal financial aid. You should apply for financial assistance and military education benefits to help you pay for your education.
- Find a university that has a veteran population. Attending a school with a military population will ensure you have a strong support system and can connect with like-minded people. Schools with a veteran population will also have student organizations and other excellent support systems.
- Consider your education goals. Before applying to a college, make sure you know what degree you want to pursue and whether you would like to learn on campus or online.
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Should You Attend a Military-Friendly School in Texas?
Yes, you should attend a military-friendly school in Texas. The best colleges for veterans in Texas have excellent support systems and services in places such as academic advising, financial aid, counseling, and tutoring.
These systems and services help veterans transition from the military to college and support them throughout their studies. The best military colleges in Texas also have veteran populations that allow students to meet with like-minded people who can support each other.
Military-Friendly Colleges in Texas FAQ
No, military dependents do not get a free college education. Still, they can apply for the Hazlewood exemptions, giving veteran dependents up to 150 free credit hours if studying at a public institution. There are also various forms of financial aid for military spouses and dependents.
Yes, out-of-state veterans can study online at a military-friendly college in Texas. Check the school’s website for the best online degrees for your career and whether they have specific out-of-state tuition.
No, some universities in Texas do not accept the GI Bill. You can find out on the school’s website whether they accept the GI Bill. If you cannot attend a university, you can always have a look at bootcamps that accept the GI Bill.
Yes, Texas is a military-friendly state. Texas has state benefits for veterans as well as federal benefits. There are also many military bases and VA facilities for veterans in Texas. Once you complete your education, you can pursue some of the best and highest-paying jobs in Texas.
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