Find your perfect college degree
For the unsung heroes of our nation, pursuing higher education can feel like a complex puzzle. Not every college is created equal, and it can be tough to find a degree that’s affordable and helps you meet your goals.
Fortunately, some have tailored their support structures and financial aid to provide a helpful foundation for success. The best colleges for military dependents can help you meet your dreams – while recognizing the sacrifices your family has made for our country.
Best Colleges for Military Dependents
If you’re a military dependent, you might already know that the GI Bill can help you pay for college. Since 1944, this program has helped military dependents pay for college (in some cases, covering all of their expenses).
You can use your GI Bill benefits at most schools. However, it’s not just compatibility with this bill that you’ll want to consider in your search. It’s also about the campus culture, programs to major in, and available programs you need to consider. The schools below are entirely great choices for these (and many other) reasons.
Pace University
Pace University is well-known for its strong ties to the city and a commitment to preparing students to succeed in a wide variety of professional fields.
This private university, with main campuses located in New York City and neighboring Westchester County, Pace offers an invaluable urban educational experience coupled with a rich suburban community that understands the nuances of military life.
College Highlights:
- Strong connection to major city hubs and corporate partners for diverse internships.
- Extensive suite of career services tailored to student needs.
- Consistently high ranks in programs such as Accounting and Finance.
Unique Features:
- Supportive Veteran Services Office offering academic and career counseling.
- Pioneering Pace Path, an individualized four-year plan to success and accelerated degree options.
- An ROTC program and academic scholarships dedicated to military students.
Drexel University
With its renowned “co-op” program at the center of its unique student experience, Drexel University has a curriculum that combines rigorous academics with hands-on, relevant experience.
Located in Philadelphia, Drexel stands as a beacon for innovation in a wide range of technical and creative fields.
College Highlights:
- High-tech campuses with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Experiential learning through a mandatory co-op program.
- Strong alumni network with global reach.
Unique Features:
- Extensive resources for military families at the Center for Military and Veteran Services.
- A Life Skills curriculum designed for transitioning military students.
- Affiliated with the Yellow Ribbon Program to cover full tuition for qualifying individuals.
American Public University
Geared specifically towards online learners, American Public University is an ideal choice for military dependents who require flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor.
Recognized for its commitment to online excellence, APU provides unique programs to meet the needs of military families.
College Highlights:
- 100% online education, perfect for those moving frequently.
- A diverse range of programs, from Public Health to Intelligence Studies.
- High marks for student satisfaction in national surveys.
Unique Features:
- Engaged Veteran Support Community and dedicated staff.
- Tuition grants and scholarships for military family members.
- Credit for MOS and military training toward degrees.
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC) is a bastion of academia and culture, located in the heart of Los Angeles. With a strong emphasis on innovation and collaborative learning, USC offers an environment where military dependents can thrive both academically and entrepreneurially.
College Highlights:
- Globally ranked academic programs across disciplines.
- Vibrant campus life with a multitude of student organizations.
- Access to top-tier internships and career opportunities.
Unique Features:
- The largest private research university on the West Coast with a plethora of resources for veteran students.
- The Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics provides a bridge between classroom teaching and practical experience in politics and government service for veterans.
- Dedicated military social work program, supporting service members and their families.
Liberty University
Liberty University stands among the largest Christian universities globally, offering over 700 programs of study. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, the campus boasts a sprawling rural setting and a strong community ethos that resonates with military families looking for a nurturing environment.
College Highlights:
- A diverse portfolio of programs including a robust online offering.
- Thriving campus life with extensive sports and extracurricular activities.
- Commitment to community service and outreach programs.
Unique Features:
- The Military Affairs Office assists in transitioning to academic life.
- Discounted tuition and fee waivers for active-duty military members and veterans.
- Strong tradition of patriotism and support for military families.
University of South Florida
University of South Florida (USF) is a preeminent research university located in Tampa, Florida, noted for breakthroughs in medicine and technology. With its highly international and service-oriented environment, USF welcomes military dependents to engage and flourish.
College Highlights:
- Globally recognized research programs.
- Strong emphasis on community service and global citizenship.
- A rich and diverse student body that supports a range of student interests.
Unique Features:
- A dedicated Office of Veteran Success with specialized resources for veterans and families.
- Membership in the Yellow Ribbon Program, supplementing veterans’ Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits.
- Mentoring and transitional services to aid in the reintegration to academic life.
Franklin University
Cornerstone to the career success of its students, Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, intertwines applied learning with a focus on market-relevant programs. Franklin offers a conducive learning environment for the diverse perspectives that military dependents bring to the table.
College Highlights:
- Adult-friendly and transfer-friendly policies that cater to nontraditional students.
- Small class sizes and personalized attention foster student success.
- Flexible learning options such as online, on-campus, and various hybrid models.
Unique Features:
- Franklin Military Academic Advancement Program (FMAPP) offers services catered to military students and their unique situations.
- Significant scholarships and grants for active-duty service members and their families.
- Academic and career support committed to the success of military students.
Keiser University
Keiser University is Florida’s second-largest, not-for-profit, private university, offering career-oriented programs on 21 campuses and online. With a focus on the integration of academics and real-life work experience, Keiser provides extensive resources for military dependents.
College Highlights:
- Programs tailored to emerging fields and market demands.
- A variety of degree levels from associate to doctoral programs.
- Accessible tutoring services and small class sizes for enhanced learning.
Unique Features:
- Keiser Military Student Services provides specialized admissions, advising, financial aid counseling, and academic support services to military students.
- Multiple military scholarship options and reduced tuition for U.S. military members and their families.
- A member of the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) and the newly created SOC Degree Network System (DNS).
Key Factors Influencing Your Decision
When it comes to deciding on the best college for military dependents, you need to consider a variety of factors that will directly impact your educational experience and long-term success.
- Geographic Location and Proximity to Military Bases: This can determine the availability of resources and the level of support for military students.
- Accreditation and Program Offerings: Make sure the college has proper accreditation and offers relevant programs.
- Support Services for Veterans and Dependents: Evaluate services such as counseling, benefit navigation, and career placement services tailored to military dependents.
- Cost and Financial Aid Opportunities: Consider the cost of attendance and the availability of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, specifically for military families.
- Flexibility of Academic Programs: For military dependents who may relocate frequently, flexible academic programs that include online and part-time options can be highly beneficial.
- Community and Culture of the Institution: The community and campus culture play a significant role in the college experience. For military dependents, a community that is supportive, understanding, and inclusive of their unique needs will be invaluable.
- Affiliation with Veterans’ Programs and Groups: Look for colleges that are affiliated with national or state-level veteran support organizations, which often means they have committed resources to support military families.
- Health and Psychological Services: Colleges that offer comprehensive health and psychological services can be especially beneficial for military dependents coping with the stresses of deployment and reintegration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Military Dependents Get Free College?
While free college for military dependents isn’t a blanket policy, there are numerous programs and benefits available that can greatly reduce the cost of education, if not fully cover it.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA) Program, and tuition assistance through various branches of the military offer substantial financial support to eligible dependents.
Does the Military Pay for College for My Child?
Depending on eligibility and the specific branch of service, the military may cover some of the education costs for dependents through programs like the GI Bill, tuition assistance, and scholarships.
What Are the Most Military-Friendly Colleges?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the term “military-friendly” can encompass various aspects of support and commitment. Both private and public institutions have been recognized for their dedication to serving military students.
Conclusion
From the bustling campuses of major cities to the serene settings of the countryside, the institutions highlighted in our list of the best colleges for military dependents provide the support, understanding, and dedication that military families deserve. Thank you for your service!
