Best Online Colleges for Military Service Members of 2024

As online degree programs gain popularity, veterans and active-duty service members find greater access to higher education, fitting their schedules and locations. A college degree can significantly benefit service members, aiding in both military advancement and civilian opportunities post-service.

Military-friendly online colleges prioritize the needs of current and former military personnel, offering benefits like tuition assistance, dedicated advisors, and supportive communities.

Forbes Advisor conducted an in-depth analysis of accredited, nonprofit online colleges nationwide to identify the top choices for military-friendly education. Factors such as tuition costs, military retention rates, and financial aid options were considered to ensure veterans and service members could choose programs aligned with their goals.

Top Military-Friendly Online Colleges

1. University of Florida

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,381/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 89%
• Graduation Rate: 90%
• Editor’s Take: [Insightful commentary on the University of Florida]

2. University of Central Florida

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,368/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 97%
• Graduation Rate: 78%
• Editor’s Take: [Perspective on the University of Central Florida]

3. Florida State University

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $6,517/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 62%
• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Editor’s Take: [Insightful commentary on Florida State University]

4. George Mason University

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $13,401/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 82%
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Editor’s Take: [Perspective on George Mason University]

5. Purdue University-Main Campus

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $9,992/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 94%
• Graduation Rate: 84%
• Editor’s Take: [Insightful commentary on Purdue University-Main Campus]

6. Herzing University-Brookfield

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $12,750/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 76%
• Editor’s Take: [Perspective on Herzing University-Brookfield]

7. San Diego Christian College

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $26,300/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 81%
• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Editor’s Take: [Insightful commentary on San Diego Christian College]

8. CUNY Lehman College

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $7,410/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 57%
• Editor’s Take: [Perspective on CUNY Lehman College]

9. University of Maryland-College Park

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $11,233/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 78%
• Graduation Rate: 87%
• Editor’s Take: [Insightful commentary on the University of Maryland-College Park]

10. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

• Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $15,859/year (in-state)
• Veteran-Specific Student Retention Rate: 79%
• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Editor’s Take: [Perspective on the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities]

Service members considering enrollment in an online military-friendly college have several reasons to pursue this path:

• Flexibility: Online colleges offer flexible scheduling to accommodate service members’ demanding schedules.
• Tuition Assistance: Military-friendly schools provide tuition discounts and assistance navigating financial aid options, such as the G.I. Bill®.
• Credit for Military Training: These colleges may award credits for relevant military training and experiences.
• Dedicated Support: Military-friendly colleges typically offer dedicated support services for military students, including career services and academic advising.
• Community: Enrolling in a military-friendly college can connect service members with a supportive community of fellow veterans and military personnel.

Before selecting an online college, service members should research accreditation, transfer policies, and financial aid options. Consulting with current or former military students can provide valuable insights into the college experience.

Ultimately, enrolling in a military-friendly online college empowers service members to pursue their educational goals and advance their careers, both within and beyond the military.