If you are looking for the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans, you have come to the right place. In addition to their low tuition rates — none of the schools below has an in-state tuition cost of more than $15,000 per year — many of the colleges and universities on the following ranking participate in tuition assistance programs exclusively reserved for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their dependents. These schools offer resource centers for military students, academic support teams, and programs designed to help military personnel seamlessly transfer credits into the program of their choice. Also, many of the institutions outlined below have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top military-friendly school. Keep reading to learn more about the 30 best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans.
Methodology
Regardless of the specific industry in which you would like to work, there are hundreds of affordable programs available for military personnel, veterans, and their dependents. To find the top 30 best affordable colleges and universities, we used information provided by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator Database as well as each school’s website. We narrowed down our list from more than 100 schools into the top 30 institutions based on the methodology.
Average Cost of Attendance
To find the most affordable schools for veterans and active-duty military, we awarded points according to each school’s average cost of attendance, as reported by their school financial website. The figures below are based on the cost of tuition for an in-state undergraduate student taking 15 hours of courses per semester. We also provided out-of-state costs for reference purposes only. In the interest of selecting the best affordable institutions, all of the colleges and universities listed below have an in-state undergraduate cost of $15,000 or less per year.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $12,000: 3 points
$12,001 to $15,000: 1 point
Number of Military Members Receiving Benefits
To get a better idea of how military-friendliness of each of the following schools, we looked at the number of military members who are currently receiving benefits at each institution. After all, a school that enrolls 1,000 military students is typically viewed more favorably than one who only enrolls 100 military personnel. The figures below include students who are eligible for both the Post-9/11 GI Bill as well as the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance Program.
Points:
More than 1,000: 7 points
750 to 999: 4 points
500 to 749: 3 points
250 to 499: 2 points
Less than 250: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Finally, we awarded points based on each school’s student-to-faculty ratio. Although there are exceptions, schools with high ratios typically provide larger classes, and those with low ratios are more likely to offer smaller academic settings. Since there are pros and cons to both, consider your own educational needs and learning preferences when thinking about these numbers. Below, we determined that schools with the lowest ratios would earn the most points based on the following ranges.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Schools for Active-Duty Military and Veterans
30. University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Points: 5
Program Website
Established as South Carolina College in 1801, the University of South Carolina is a public research university and the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina System. Located in Columbia, a member of the 2019 Great American Defense Community and the state’s first Purple Heart City, USC is a bronze-level military-friendly school and one of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. Enrolling more than 675 service personnel, USC offers an active-duty tuition discount, tuition assistance, and benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill, and the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program.
In-State Tuition: $12,688
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,928
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 676
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
29. Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana
Points: 5
Program Website
Indiana University-Bloomington is a public research university and the flagship campus of the Indiana University System. Founded in 1820, IU-Bloomington also ranks among the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. In fact, IU was one of the first five colleges in the U.S. to incorporate military science into its curriculum. The IU-Bloomington campus is home to nearly 750 military spouses and dependents as well as more than 500 veterans. The school offers the Veterans Family Support Grant that provides $2,000 per academic year to a service member or veteran who is supporting a minor child while attending IU-Bloomington on a full-time basis. Other VA education benefits recognized include tuition assistance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill for active-duty and reserve personnel, and the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program.
In-State Tuition: $10,947
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,512
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 220
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
28. Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1906, Western Kentucky University is a public institution of higher education that operates a main campus in Bowling Green and three regional campuses in Owensboro, Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, and Glasgow. Students looking for an affordable school for active-duty military and veterans will find that WKU’s Office of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive support. WKU offers military tuition assistance for current and former service members and their dependents, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill, and the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program. WKU has also joined forces with Military One Source to help military spouses looking to complete their education or earn a new degree through the Military Spouse Career Advancement program.
In-State Tuition: $10,802
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,496
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 408
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
27. University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Points: 6
Program Website
The University of North Dakota, founded in 1883, is a public space-grant research university and the flagship campus of the University of North Dakota System. UND is recognized for its generous transfer policies, accepting all credits earned as long as they were completed at an accredited school. All eligible transfer students receive an automatic scholarship as well as a $250 per-credit tuition rate for active-duty military students enrolled in many high-value bachelor’s programs. Recognized as one of the top 10 military-friendly universities in the country, UND also provides college credit for military training for current members of the U.S. Armed Forces and its veterans. UND offers several bachelor’s degrees tailored to the unique needs of military students and veterans, including programs in nursing, engineering, and aviation.
In-State Tuition: $9,736
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,895
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 397
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
26. South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is a public land-, space-, and sun-grant research university and the oldest continually-operating institution of higher learning in the state. SDSU is also a Purple Heart Campus, assisting military students and their dependents through its Veterans Affairs Office. Students receive guidance on everything from transitioning into civilian life to tuition support. SDSU offers scholarships, including the Flatlanders Militiamen VMC Scholarship and the Michael Goodale Scholarship, as well as benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill, and the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program. SDSU’s on-campus Veterans Resource Center also hosts and organizes social events for military personnel, including a book club, social hours, and speaking engagements.
In-State Tuition: $9,114
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,589
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 415
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
25. Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, Mississippi
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1878 as Mississippi Agricultural & Mechanical College, Mississippi State University is a public land-, space-, and sea-grant research university and a top choice among students seeking an affordable school for active-duty military and veterans. Through its Center for America’s Veterans, MSU offers flexible transfer credit options and military assistance designed to provide access to 15 scholarship opportunities and help reduce the cost of tuition. In addition, MSU’s Student Veteran Association, one of the largest organizations on campus, focuses on assisting military personnel, veterans, and their dependents through community projects.
In-State Tuition: $8,910
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,950
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 470
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
24. Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1901 as the Academy of Idaho, Idaho State University is the leading institution of higher learning in the state for health professions and medical education. Formerly the Veterans Sanctuary, ISU’s Veteran Student Services Center offers community and education resources for student veterans and their dependents. Benefits include VA- and ISU-provided military tuition assistance, employment preparation and professional development services, an on-site emotional support dog, and a social, safe study environment overseen by trained staff. All veterans, active-duty service members, and military-connected students and family members, including spouses and children, qualify for ISU’s services.
In-State Tuition: $7,872
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,168
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 247
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
23. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is a public research university that was established in 1869, making it the oldest campus of the Southern Illinois University System. SIU was one of the first institutions of higher learning in the country to offer degrees on military installations and now offers online academic programs as well. SIU also hosts on-campus Army and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps programs and is home to a student chapter of the Student Veterans of America organization. Benefits for military members, veterans, and their families include accommodations for diagnosed disabilities, career and degree choice counseling, transcript evaluation, tutoring, and assistance in obtaining veteran educational benefit programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
In-State Tuition: $14,904
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,360
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 767
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
22. Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1899, Northern Arizona University is a public research university and one of the most affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. In fact, NAU enrolls more than 775 military personnel looking to further their education or earn a new degree. Students may take advantage of tuition deferment as well as tuition assistance based on their respective branches. In addition, the Council of College and Military Educators (CCME) awards a $1,000 scholarship per year to NAU military students, veterans, and their spouses. Military spouses may also be eligible to receive up to $4,000 in tuition assistance through the My Career Advancement Account Scholarship.
In-State Tuition: $11,896
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,516
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 772
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
21. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution of higher education that was established in 1906 as the Eastern Kentucky State Normal School No. 1. For more than 70 years, EKU has been assisting military and veteran students, primarily through its Operation Veteran Success initiative. The school offers many benefits to military students such as on-campus clubs for veterans, priority registration, lower in-state tuition for all veterans, waived application fees, access to the Books for Boots textbook exchange program, and an orientation designed specifically to help veterans transition back into civilian and academic life. EKU is ranked on the Best of the Best List for “Top Veteran-Friendly Schools” by U.S. Veterans Magazine and regularly ranks on “Best for Vets” list by Military Times.
In-State Tuition: $9,876
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,948
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 471
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
20. Texas Tech University
Lubbock, Texas
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1923 as Texas Technological College, Texas Tech University is a public research university and the primary campus of the four-school Texas Tech University System. Texas Tech is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable military-friendly school, mainly because of its extensive list of online degrees such as law and medicine. Texas Tech also partners with military bases to meet the academic needs of its military students. The school offers scholarships, tuition assistance, support services, and resources for veterans and their dependents. In addition, the TechVets Boot Camp takes place at the beginning of each semester and assists new military personnel transition back into the life of a student and civilian.
In-State Tuition: $9,300
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,260
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 655
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
19. North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1887, North Carolina State University is a public land-, sea-, and space-grant research university and a member of the University of North Carolina System. NC State boasts a long tradition of serving active-duty military students, veterans, and their families. The school’s Military and Veterans Resource Center provides resources to help military personnel with their scholarship and tuition needs, healthcare, housing, and academic support. NC State also allows military students to transfer credits for courses from military branch-specific colleges and academies. Active-duty military and their dependents may be eligible for in-state tuition rates regardless of their area of residence.
In-State Tuition: $9,101
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,220
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 485
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
18. California State University-San Bernardino
San Bernardino, California
Points: 7
Program Website
California State University-San Bernardino is a public university and one of 23 campuses that make up the California State University System. CSUSB is recognized by Military Times and U.S. Veterans and Military Magazine as one of the best schools for veterans. Through the Veterans Success Center, CSUSB provides active-duty service members, veterans, and their dependents with the support, information, and resources they need to be successful. Upon enrollment, students receive the CSUSB Veterans Success Center Viewbook which provides an important introduction to the CSUSB campus and details the available services, including volunteer opportunities, resource fairs, and support groups — all designed specifically for veterans.
In-State Tuition: $6,886
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,765
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 189
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29:1
17. University of Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university that enrolls more than 31,000 undergraduate and graduate students each year. OU’s Veteran Support Alliance provides financial and academic resources and support to active-duty military students, veterans, and their dependents. The school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program and offers several scholarships and partnerships to help offset the cost of education. Other benefits offered to military students include counseling and tutoring services, employment assistance, military tuition assistance based on each student’s respective branch, healthcare services, and resources such as the Oklahoma Women Veterans Organization.
In-State Tuition: $11,763
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,144
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 846
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
16. San Diego State University
San Diego, California
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded as San Diego Normal School in 1897, San Diego State University is the third-oldest campus of the 23-school California State University System. SDSU serves military students and their families through SDSU World Campus, providing information about tuition assistance, certificate programs and registration, and veterans’ educational benefits. Financial assistance is available, including the Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program, which offers up to $4,000 of workforce development scholarships to eligible military spouses. The school offers credit for prior education and military training, and students do not need to be enrolled full-time to receive academic benefits. At this time, the only program eligible for VA benefits is the Advanced Certificate in Web and Mobile Applications Development.
In-State Tuition: $7,510
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,390
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 923
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
15. Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Points: 8
Program Website
Fort Hays State University, established in 1902 on a former military outpost, is a public university and one of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. The school is recognized for its extensive list of high-value programs designed to help military personnel succeed in their academic endeavors. In addition to offering several financial options and scholarships aimed at service members and awarding credit for military training, FHSU participates in 8 Keys to Veterans’ Success — a federal initiative that supports veterans and their dependents as they transition into civilian life and the workforce. FHSU also boasts an impressive selection of more than 50 online degrees that active-duty students can customize based on their interests and time.
In-State Tuition: $5,280
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,360
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 286
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
14. George Mason University
Fairfax, Virginia
Points: 9
Program Website
Established in 1949, George Mason University is a public research university that began as the Northern Virginia branch of the University of Virginia. GMU’s Office of Military Services (OMS) solely focuses on active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. OMS helps students transition from military to college life by structuring an academic path to meet their timetable, schedule, and needs. Services and resources include financial aid assistance, counseling and advising sessions, resume-building and networking assistance, and providing support both inside and outside the classroom. OMS also works with organizations to provide mentorship and community support, including Disabled American Veterans Chapter 10, VFW Post 8469, and American Legion Post 177.
In-State Tuition: $12,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,024
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,224
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
13. Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas
Points: 9
Program Website
Founded in 1876 as a military academy, Texas A&M University is a public research university with a longstanding tradition with the military. Serving student veterans since 1919, the school is recognized as a national leader in assisting active-duty members, veterans, military dependents, and survivors. Texas A&M’s Veteran Services Office helps more than 4,000 military personnel with everything from registering to classes to applying for admission. Texas A&M also provides academic success counseling and accepts transfer credit for military training for eligible majors. Throughout the year, students may participate in various military-specific social events and workshops. Military students are also eligible for awards such as the Student Veteran Supporter of the Year, Student Veteran of the Year, and Student Veteran of the Month.
In-State Tuition: $12,153
Out-of-State Tuition: $38,602
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,050
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
12. University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska
Points: 9
Program Website
The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public research university that was founded in 1908 by faculty of the Omaha Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Recognized as a top 10 four-year institution for military friendliness, UNO’s Office of Military and Veteran Services employs a full-time VA employee and helps student veterans with resources and services such as academic advisement, tutoring, tuition assistance, and benefits. Active-duty military and veterans can also take advantage of additional support from UNO’s Student Veteran Organization, which offers a counseling service, support groups, and weekly gatherings.
In-State Tuition: $7,980
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,244
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 830
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
11. Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Established in 1851, Florida State University is a public sea- and space-grant research university and a senior member of the State University System of Florida. Active-duty military, veterans, and their families have access to FSU’s Student Veterans Center, a specialized department designed to assist students with everything from the application process and admissions through securing a job after graduation. FSU’s Veterans Alliance also acts as a centralized resource, providing access to scholarships and health resources. Students may be eligible for out-of-state tuition waivers, and distance students may be entitled to reduced fees. The school offers educational benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and academic assistance for dependents and spouses of military members.
In-State Tuition: $5,656
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,786
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 575
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
10. Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Points: 11
Program Website
Colorado State University, founded as Colorado Agricultural College in 1870, is the state’s land-grant institution of higher learning and the flagship campus of the Colorado State University System. Recognized as one of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans, CSU enrolls more than 38,000 students, including more than 1,300 who are receiving military benefits. CSU offers tuition assistance from both the state and the federal government and also allows students to earn credit for previous training and education. CSU is associated with the SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society, a national organization that assists veterans pursuing a college degree, and offers more than 20 scholarships for active-duty students, veterans, and their families.
In-State Tuition: $11,901
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,622
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,314
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
9. University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
Points: 11
Program Website
The University of North Texas is a public research university that was established in 1890 as Texas Normal College and Teacher Training Institute. In 2018, UNT was recognized as a Purple Heart University, an honor that recognizes the school’s commitment to serving active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. UNT provides several programs and services, including tuition assistance, psychological services for active military and veterans, the SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society, and the UNT Veteran Green Zone Training, a campaign designed to increase staff and faculty sensitivity to student veterans. Military students may also join the Student Veterans Association to receive assistance with transitioning into the academic community.
In-State Tuition: $11,044
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,172
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,176
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
8. University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Points: 11
Program Website
The University of Alabama is a public research university and the flagship campus of the University of Alabama System. Founded in 1820, it is also the oldest and largest public institution of higher learning by enrollment in the state. UA’s Office for Veteran and Military Affairs aims to provide services and programs to meet the needs of active-duty service members, veterans, and their families, including health services, counseling, financial assistance, and a free textbook rental program. Students who are deployed may choose from more than 60 affordable online degrees through Bama by Distance, and on-campus military students have even more academic options. Freshmen partner with an Army education counselor who helps with applying, tuition, class registration, and other steps.
In-State Tuition: $10,780
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,250
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,061
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
7. Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Points: 11
Program Website
Established in 1930, Old Dominion University is a public space- and sea-grant research university and one of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. ODU’s Military Connection Center is dedicated to helping veterans as well as reservists, service members, and their families to successfully transition into the academic community. Students benefit from academic tutoring and advice, opportunities for student employment through the VA’s work-study program, and participation in social and educational programs. ODU’s Military Scholarship provides $1,000 to current and former service members, their spouses, and dependents. The school also partners with several military education affiliations, many of which provide additional forms of tuition assistance and financial aid to military students.
In-State Tuition: $10,680
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,840
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 2,205
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
6. Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Points: 11
Program Website
Founded as Troy State Normal School in 1887, Troy University is a public institution of higher education and the flagship campus of the Troy University System. Since 1950, Troy has been consistently recognized as one of the top military-friendly universities in the country. More than 60 flag officers have graduated from Troy, and the school has a presence near or on more than 30 military installations across the globe. It also participates in low-cost online programs with all service branches. In addition, the TROY for Troops Center helps both online and on-campus military students as they transition into college life by providing comprehensive educational support and access to the Student Veteran Association and the SALUTE Honor Society. Other resources include visiting VA counseling service providers, a Veterans’ Alumni Association, and a Veteran Success on Campus counselor.
In-State Tuition: $8,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,708
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 2,596
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
5. Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, Tennessee
Points: 11
Program Website
Established in 1927, Austin Peay State University is a public institution of higher learning that enrolls more than 10,900 students, including more than 2,000 students who receive military benefits. In 2010, APSU established the Military Student Center to serve the needs of active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, and their dependents. The MSC offers a dining area, lounge, printer, and computer lab reserved for military students and provides several programs to address their unique needs. The Green Zone program recognizes faculty and staff who have been trained to be allies and resources for military students, while the Text for Vets program that provides free textbooks to the military-affiliated student population.
In-State Tuition: $8,303
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,847
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 2,018
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
4. Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, Colorado
Points: 11
Program Website
Established in 1965, the Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public institution of higher education and one of the top universities for active-duty military and veterans. MSU Denver’s Veteran and Military Student Services Office provides many services to military students, including assisting with the transition to student life, helping with the enrollment process, and guiding students through the best use of their education benefits. MSU Denver offers credit for military training and occupations as well as employment, healthcare, and education resources. Students may also join the Student Veterans Organization that provides opportunities to get involved through outreach, social outings, volunteering, community events, awareness campaigns, and community planning for the school’s military-affiliated population.
In-State Tuition: $8,151
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,728
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,066
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
3. University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland
Points: 11
Program Website
The University of Maryland Global Campus, founded in 1947, serves more than 90,000 students across the globe and is one of the world’s largest distance-learning institutions. The school’s convenient and flexible online programs also make it one of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans. Through hybrid or online courses, students can pursue their degree wherever service takes them. The school assists with education benefits and offers credit for military training and experience. UMGC also offers reduced tuition rates for military-affiliated students, and tuition assistance programs cover up to 100 percent of an undergraduate degree.
In-State Tuition: $7,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,336
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 38,394
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
2. Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, Georgia
Points: 13
Program Website
Founded as a land-grant college in 1906, Georgia Southern University is a public research university and the fifth-largest school by enrollment in the University System of Georgia. Georgia Southern offers many benefits to active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, and their families, including special scholarship opportunities, fee waivers, and Military Resource Centers (MRC) on each of its campuses. In the MRCs, students will find a military-affiliated student lounge and staff who can provide assistance, guidance, and referrals to additional on- and off-campus services. Other benefits include tuition assistance, flexible scheduling options, stackable degrees, and programs that match well with a military background.
In-State Tuition: $6,463
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,518
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,150
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
1. University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Points: 13
Program Website
Topping our list of the best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans is the University of South Florida, a public research university and a member of the State University System of Florida. Established in 1956, the school enrolls more than 50,000 students, including more than 1,000 students who receive military benefits. USF’s Office of Veteran Success Services offers the Veteran Admissions Pathways Program that helps students transition into college life. Students may also take advantage of the VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) program, an initiative that assists military students by providing a full-time VA counselor who can help those in need of counseling, academic decisions, career guidance, and benefits assistance.
In-State Tuition: $6,410
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,324
Number of Military Receiving Benefits: 1,020
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Benefits of Online Learning for Military Students?
While many active-duty military and veterans pursue traditional, on-campus programs, in recent years, distance learning has surged in popularity. In fact, according to eLearning Industry, online education increased more than 900 percent between 2000 and 2019 — and the industry is projected to triple in size by 2025. This growth is mainly due to the flexibility and convenience of online learning options
Re-stationing, transfers, and deployments can make pursuing a college degree tricky for active-duty service members. While military students can transfer credits to a new college or university after they relocate, the process of doing so often includes limitations and risks. For example, the student’s new school might not offer his or her desired major, or it might not accept all of the credits that the student is looking to transfer. Pursuing an online degree can eliminate these issues.
Reservists and active-duty military often have many commitments and busy schedules. Therefore, on-campus programs may not be able to offer the convenience and flexibility of distance learning programs, many of which are designed so that students can watch lectures and complete coursework at their own pace, on their own schedule.
Also, many college campuses have noise, large crowds, and high levels of activity. Many military service members, especially students who are coming back from a deployment, learn better in a calmer environment. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), combat veterans suffer high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Distance learning offers a peaceful, quiet setting that helps those with PTSD and other similar conditions.
What Financial Benefits Do Military-Friendly Schools Offer?
Some of the highest expenses for active-duty military students and veterans include books, required fees, and tuition. To help students pay for these costs, the VA offers a Tuition Assistance Top-Up program that provides payments for up to 36 months. To be eligible for financial assistance, learners must also qualify for Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery Bill Benefits.
Under the Post-9/1 GI Bill, the VA pays each college or university directly; the learner does not receive the money. The VA provides up to $24,476 per academic year at a private or foreign school and covers all tuition and fee payments for in-state students at public schools. Although the federal government provides many programs for veterans and active-duty members returning to school, the Post-9/11 GI Bill is one of the most widely used — and the most valuable.
Veterans who qualify for the maximum benefit rate under the Post-9/11 GI Bill may be eligible to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program as long as the school meets certain requirements. The benefits offered through the program include more money to pay for attendance as a nonresident student at a public school or to pay for the higher tuition cost at a private school. Ideally, the combined financial contributions of the VA and the school would cover the veteran’s fees and tuition in full. However, schools may either fund a smaller percentage of the costs or waive them completely. Keep in mind that, if a veteran attends a fully online school, he or she will only receive half of the monthly housing stipend offered by the GI Bill.
Benefits for active-duty military personnel are also offered under the Montgomery GI Bill. Students pay $100 per month for one calendar year that entitles them to a monthly educational stipend after they have completed a minimum of two years of active-duty service. In addition, service members may pay an additional $600 per month via the “Buy-Up Program” in order to receive a repayment rate of eight dollars to one. This results in a maximum payout amount of $5,400 in additional benefits. It is important to note that if a student does not cash these benefits within 10 years, they do expire.
Is Accreditation Important in a Military-Friendly School?
When it comes to narrowing down options and choosing a school to attend, it is important for service personnel and active-duty members to select an institution and degree that will be recognized by employers. In addition, students should ensure that they pursue a degree from an accredited institution and that the school they attend is approved by the VA if they will be receiving support through the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
The best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans share one significant feature: accreditation. Programmatic, regional, and national accreditation signifies that a program or school meets or exceeds standards of quality set by the accrediting body. It also guarantees that graduate schools, other four-year institutions, and employers will recognize the degree if the study wishes to pursue graduate-level study or transfer to another institution. Further, only schools that are accredited will be eligible for federal assistance and benefits programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Ultimately, the best colleges for active-duty military and veterans provide specialized resources for students who are transitioning into civilian life. These institutions maintain programs and offices that help soldiers, and many offer counseling referrals, academic success services, and both social and mental health support. These resources are offered to both online and on-campus learners.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable schools for active-duty military and veterans.
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