Serving in the military is one of the noblest professions one can undertake. It is not only about defending the country, but also an opportunity to develop qualities such as discipline, leadership, and responsibility. After serving their country, many veterans want to further their education to prepare for a new career or to advance their knowledge and skills. Selecting the right university can be challenging, but this guide will help veterans navigate the process by presenting the 10 best universities for military veterans.

10 Best Universities for Military Veterans: A Guide to Choosing the Right School

1. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) is a public research university located in Tampa, Florida. USF has a military-affiliated program called Services for Veterans & Military. This program is designed to provide personalized support to veterans and military-affiliated students. The university also offers a variety of degree programs that cater to the unique needs of veterans.

USF has been ranked as a top “Military-Friendly School” by GI Jobs magazine and Military Advanced Education. The university offers a range of veteran benefits, including tuition assistance, course credit for military training, and on-campus resources such as the Office of Veteran Success.

2. University of California – Los Angeles

The University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university located in Los Angeles, California. The university’s Veterans Resource Office (VRO) provides a range of services and benefits to veterans and military-affiliated students. VRO services include academic counseling, tutoring, and outreach activities.

UCLA offers veteran-centric programs such as the Veteran Learning Community and the Veterans Writing Program. Veterans can also take advantage of the UCLA Work Study Program, which provides on-campus employment opportunities.

3. Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private research university located in Syracuse, New York. The school is home to the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), which provides academic and career counseling, entrepreneurship and small business training, and research and policy analysis on veterans’ issues.

Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA) assists veterans with the transition from military life to college life. Veterans can access resources such as the Veterans Resource Center, which offers academic support, career counseling, and guidance on navigating the GI Bill.

4. Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) is a public research university located in Tallahassee, Florida. FSU has a dedicated Veteran Student Union (VSU), which is a student-run organization that assists veterans in their transition to college life.

The VSU also organizes a variety of events and activities that promote camaraderie among veterans. FSU has a number of veteran-specific programs, including the Veterans Certification Office and the Veterans Center.

5. University of Maryland – College Park

The University of Maryland – College Park (UMCP) is a public research university located in College Park, Maryland. UMCP has a Veterans Student Life Program that provides support and resources to veterans and military-affiliated students.

The program offers a variety of initiatives, including the Transition Assistance Program, which helps veterans navigate the university’s academic and administrative policies. UMCP also has the Veteran Support Center, which provides academic and social support services.

6. University of Texas – Austin

The University of Texas – Austin (UT Austin) is a public research university located in Austin, Texas. UT Austin has a Student Veteran Services department, which provides support and resources to veterans and military-affiliated students.

The department offers a range of services, including academic advising, career counseling, and peer mentoring. UT Austin also has a number of veteran-specific programs, including the Veteran Tuition Assistance Program and the Student Veteran Association.

7. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public research university located in Tempe, Arizona. ASU has a Military and Veteran Success Center, which offers services such as academic and career coaching, financial assistance, and counseling.

The center also works with academic departments to ensure that programs and services are tailored to the needs of veterans and active-duty military personnel. ASU is known for its veteran-specific programs, such as the Veteran Student Organization and the Veteran Liaison Team.

8. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia (UVA) is a public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia. UVA has a Veteran and Military Student Services department, which provides services and resources to veterans and military-affiliated students.

The department offers counseling and support services, as well as academic advising and career coaching. UVA also has a number of veteran-specific programs, including the Veterans Writing Project and the Veterans Speakers Forum.

9. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC) is a private research university located in Los Angeles, California. USC has a Veterans Resource Center, which provides academic counseling, career coaching, and financial aid assistance to veterans and military-affiliated students.

The center also offers a range of other services, such as disability support and mental health counseling. USC has been recognized as a top military-friendly university by publications such as U.S. News & World Report and Military Times.

10. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University (TAMU) is a public research university located in College Station, Texas. TAMU has the Veteran Resource & Support Center, which provides services such as academic advising, career planning, and networking opportunities.

The center also offers support for veterans with disabilities and mental health issues. TAMU has a number of student organizations that cater to the needs of veterans, such as the Student Veterans Association and the Veterans Services Advisory Committee.

Selecting the right university is an important decision for veterans who want to pursue further education. The 10 best universities presented in this guide are great options for veterans who are seeking a supportive and inclusive academic environment. These universities offer a range of services and resources that cater to the unique needs of veterans and military-affiliated students. By choosing one of these universities, veterans can achieve their academic and career goals while receiving the support they deserve.