Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges
Contributing Writer
Editor & Writer
Contributing Reviewer
Contributing Writer
Editor & Writer
Contributing Reviewer
www.bestcolleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Turn Your Dreams Into Reality
Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.
Navigating the landscape of college after the military can feel like no-man's-land. Online military-friendly colleges understand that military students want the highest return on their investment when using their benefits.
The United States has some 16.2 million veterans as of 2022 and 1.31 million active duty military members at home and abroad as of 2024. Military-friendly online colleges offer services and resources dedicated to helping veteran students, military service members, and their families.
So, why go to a military-friendly college? We'll walk you through the benefits of attending military-friendly online colleges, financial aid options for military students, and tuition estimates.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Colleges for Military Students
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data
and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University has been a military-friendly college for more than 80 years. The school oversees more than 200 online programs. SNHU also offers tuition discounts of up to 30% for active military personnel and their spouses.
Prospective undergraduate students need only a high school diploma or the equivalent for admission. Military students may receive up to 90 transfer credits for job training or professional military education. They may also qualify for active-duty tuition assistance, Veteran Readiness and Employment services, GI Bill benefits, and the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $320
Undergrad, out of state | $320
Graduate, in-state | $627
Graduate, out of state | $627
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University oversees more than 100 online bachelor's programs and over 300 online master's programs. The military-friendly college offers military degree plans, including tuition discounts and tuition assistance, technology fee waivers, and support during deployment and returns.
Prospective students need a high school diploma or its equivalent for undergraduate admission. Liberty provides transfer credit for approved military training and education. The school also offers benefits through GI Bill programs, the Yellow Ribbon Program, Veteran Readiness and Employment services, and the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $390-$455
Undergrad, out of state | $390-$455
Graduate, in-state | $565-$615
Graduate, out of state | $565-$615
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the University of Central Florida, online military students have access to more than 100 degree programs. The military-friendly college provides military benefits through GI Bill programs, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and Veteran Readiness and Employment services. UCF also offers tuition assistance, military scholarships, and free tuition for Florida National Guard members.
Prospective undergraduate students need a high school diploma (or the equivalent) and SAT or ACT scores for admission. Military students are given a specialized transition plan, academic advising, and career support upon entry.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $179
Undergrad, out of state | $716
Graduate, in-state | $327
Graduate, out of state | $1,152
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Averett University
Danville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The Graduate and Professional Studies division at Averett University offers online programs in seven main fields, including business, education, and nursing. This military-friendly college provides military tuition discounts of 25-50%, military scholarships, and benefits like GI Bill benefits, Veteran Readiness and Employment services, and the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Prospective students need a high school diploma or its equivalent for admission. Military students can qualify for up to 90 transfer credits for experience and training.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $480
Undergrad, out of state | $480
Graduate, in-state | $530-$695
Graduate, out of state | $530-$695
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online
One of the top military-friendly colleges, Arizona State University enrolls more than 6,000 military personnel. The school offers nearly 300 online programs and certificates. Military students have access to GI Bill benefits, tuition assistance, the Veterans Educational Assistance Program, and spouse and dependent program benefits.
ASU is also home to the Pat Tillman Veterans Center and provides specialized student services to veterans and active-duty military. Prospective students need a high school or GED diploma for admission. Enrolled students may receive transfer credits for military training and education.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $561-$661
Undergrad, out of state | $561-$661
Graduate, in-state | $543-$1,343
Graduate, out of state | $543-$1,343
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Formerly known as Brandman University, the University of Massachusetts Global is a military-friendly college with more than 90 online programs. The school offers military transition programs, tuition assistance programs, and tuition discounts of up to 50% for military personnel.
UMass Global also provides GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program benefits, support for military spouses and dependents, and education assistance programs. Prospective students need a high school diploma with a 2.0 minimum GPA for admission.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $500
Undergrad, out of state | $500
Graduate, in-state | $680
Graduate, out of state | $680
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
The University of Maryland Global Campus is a military-friendly college that provides reduced tuition and tuition assistance programs for active-duty personnel and veterans. The school also provides military benefits through GI Bill programs, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and military scholarships. Learners can choose from more than 90 online programs.
Prospective students need a high school diploma or (or the equivalent) for admission. Admitted students may receive transfer credits for their military experience and training.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $306
Undergrad, out of state | $499
Graduate, in-state | $504
Graduate, out of state | $659
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
One of the top military-friendly colleges, Syracuse University runs nearly 60 online programs. Syracuse students can access Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Benefits, tuition assistance programs, and the Yellow Ribbon Program. GI Bill benefits are also available — Syracuse helped create the original bill in 1944.
Prospective students need a high school or GED diploma and standardized test scores for entry. Military students may qualify for experiential transfer credits.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $1,864
Undergrad, out of state | $1,864
Graduate, in-state | $1,734
Graduate, out of state | $1,734
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ - 4 years
- Online
Thomas Edison State University is a military-friendly college with more than 100 online programs and certificates. The school offers discounted tuition rates, tuition assistance programs, and scholarships for military personnel. TESU also provides GI Bill and Veterans Affairs benefits and support for military spouses and dependents.
Prospective students need a high school or GED diploma for admission. Once admitted, military students connect with a military-specific advisor. They may qualify for transfer credits for their experience and training.
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in-state | $399
Undergrad, out of state | $519
Graduate, in-state | $668-$905
Graduate, out of state | $668-$905
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. This ranking is from 2023. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that's best for you. In choosing the best online military-friendly colleges, they must must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program
- Offer credit for military training
- Have a dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- House a recognized student veteran organization
- Be a member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC)
3 Benefits of a Military-Friendly College
- Academic Credit for Military Experience. Military-friendly colleges accept Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Air Force credits for military training and vocational specialties in accordance with the American Council on Education. They have experience evaluating Joint Service Transcripts and Community College of the Air Force transcripts.
- Resources and Support Services for the Military. Transitioning from service to school can be difficult. You want to attend a college that offers a designated center or lounge for veterans. An online school may have a dedicated page of resources for veterans. A liaison to help active duty military and veteran students access resources or process fee waivers also makes the transition easier. In addition, look for student organizations for veterans and military personnel.
- Discounts For Military Personnel and Veterans. Many colleges offer discounted tuition, application fee waivers, and scholarships to military members, their families, and veterans. This is important because the GI Bill may not cover the total cost of college.
Financial Aid Opportunities for Military Students
What's the best way to pay for a military-friendly college? Fortunately, service members and veterans qualify for all kinds of financial aid and support.
Based on military service, you may qualify for the GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program, which can cover 100% of tuition and other education expenses. You may also qualify for financial aid through military tuition assistance programs and scholarship opportunities for service members and veterans. In addition, submitting the FAFSA will help connect you to college grants, scholarships, and loans.
When researching financial aid, check which schools accept veteran and military financial benefits.
GI Bill
Military students can take advantage of the GI Bill to cover education expenses. Eligible service members include those who served at least 90 days on active duty and dependent children of qualifying service members.
The GI Bill covers up to the full cost of in-state tuition and fees at public universities. Recipients also qualify for up to $28,937 at private institutions. The GI Bill can also help cover housing, books, supplies, and relocation expenses.
Check out our guide to learn more about GI Bill benefits.
Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program provides additional financial support for expenses not covered by the GI Bill. Recipients must meet the GI Bill eligibility requirements. The program also covers active duty service members if they have already served 36 months.
The amount of financial support varies depending on the agreement between the VA and your school. Only participating schools offer Yellow Ribbon funding, and many set a maximum number of recipients, so reach out to your school for more information. The program is usually only applicable to for-profit or private schools.
Military Tuition Assistance
Each branch of the military offers a tuition assistance program. Tuition assistance may cover up to 100% of tuition expenses. However, recipients must meet eligibility requirements based on their branch of service.
For example, the Air Force and Coast Guard provide up to $4,500 per year for active duty and reserve members, while the Army covers up to $4,000 per year. The Navy, Marines, and Space Force also provide up to $4,500 per year, though the benefit only extends to active-duty members. Check with your school's certifying official for information.
Scholarships
Military students qualify for multiple college scholarships. In addition to general scholarships, you can apply for military and veteran scholarships. Military students enrolled in online colleges also qualify for online student scholarships. Research scholarship opportunities to identify funding sources.
Grants
Like scholarships, college grants represent free money for school. Military students qualify for the Pell Grant, which offers up to $7,395 for the 2024-2025 school year. Children of service members who died in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11 and who qualify for the Pell Grant may also qualify for the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant.
How to Choose an Online Military-Friendly College
The best online colleges for military students offer affordability, online student resources, and veteran support. But how should you compare online schools for military service members and veterans? This section discusses the factors to consider when choosing an online college as a veteran or military student.
Cost
Undergraduate students at public four-year colleges in the 2022-2023 school year paid a national average of $9,750 for tuition and fees, compared to $35,248 at private four-year colleges, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Many factors influence the real cost of college. Generally, private schools cost more than public schools, and out-of-state student are charged a higher rate.
That said, online students often pay a flat tuition rate or can often qualify for out-of-state discounts.
Veteran and Military Services and Programs
True military-friendly schools offer support services and programs even before enrollment. Colleges may offer an orientation specifically for veterans or serving military members.
Military-friendly online colleges also have dedicated services, programs, and advisors to help you get your military transcripts, obtain application fee waivers, and even get priority registration. You may also find career assistance and internships specifically for veterans.
Online Learning Format
Online learning can be an ideal format for active duty service members or busy military students who have jobs and/or families. Online degrees often use asynchronous coursework that lets you submit classwork and watch pre-recorded lectures on your own time.
Your college may also offer courses on base or at a nearby satellite campus. The availability of online courses depends on the school and your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Military-Friendly Colleges
What makes a college military-friendly?
A military-friendly college caters to the specific needs of troops and their spouses. These colleges and universities have dedicated independent centers with advisors for veterans and military personnel. You'll also find resources such as separate centers, lounges, or student organizations and clubs that offer a chance to connect with other military students.
Some colleges earn the Military Friendly Schools or Military Friendly Spouse School designation by completing an extensive survey provided by VIQTORY, a veteran-owned business not affiliated with the Department of Defense.
Should I go to college before or after the military?
There are benefits to enrolling in college before joining the military or joining the military and then attending college. For example, enlistees who already hold a college degree may qualify for officer candidate school or higher ranks. Several programs exist to help military service members with college loans repay their debt.
However, going to college after joining the military also offers major benefits. Service members and veterans qualify for education benefits like the GI Bill and military tuition assistance programs. They can also qualify for scholarships and grants based on their service.
Is military college free?
There are several military academies, including the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
These academies do not charge tuition for enlistees because the education students receive is part of their military training. However, students who enroll at these military academies must agree to a term of military service to cover the cost of their education, which ranges from 5-8 years, depending on the military academy.
Can you be in the military while going to college?
Yes, you can go to college while in the military on active duty or in the reserves. Many active duty personnel can qualify to use their education benefits. Roughly 236,992 active duty military members used their education benefits from October 2019 to September 2020, according to the Hechinger Report.
Do all colleges accept military tuition assistance?
For certain types of education benefits like the Yellow Ribbon Program, colleges must contract with the Department of Veteran Affairs. However, most colleges accept military tuition benefits. These benefits provide $3,750-$4,500 per year in tuition support.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.
