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For many service members and veterans, pursuing higher education opens doors to new career opportunities and personal growth. Balancing military responsibilities with academic goals can feel challenging, but selecting the right online college can make this transition smoother. Flexible programs, credit for military experience, and dedicated support services are important considerations for military students.
This guide highlights 12 top online colleges offering programs tailored for service members and veterans. These institutions provide flexibility, affordability, and resources to help military learners succeed academically and professionally.
- Top Online Colleges for Military Students
- Features That Make These Colleges Supportive
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I look for in an online college as a military student
- Can military training count toward college credit
- Do these schools accept the GI Bill or tuition assistance
- Can I attend classes while deployed
- How do I apply for military tuition benefits
- Are support services available for transitioning veterans
- Recommended Reads
Top Online Colleges for Military Students
| College | Highlights | Military Support and Features |
|---|---|---|
| University of Phoenix | Flexible online programs, veteran-focused resources | Credit transfer for military training, veterans’ center with career counseling and mentorship |
| Liberty University | Wide range of online degrees, Christian values | Military tuition discount of 10 dollars per credit, advisors familiar with veteran challenges, career services |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) | Affordable tuition, veteran scholarships | Flexible scheduling, veteran-focused academic advisors, self-paced courses |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Specializes in aviation and aerospace | Credit for military training, flexible schedules, courses in unmanned systems and pilot training |
| Penn State World Campus | Over 175 degree programs, strong reputation | Veteran Services Office, GI Bill support, counseling and peer mentorship |
| Arizona State University (ASU) Online | Flexible online learning formats | Military support team, credit for prior service, cohort programs for collaboration |
| Columbia College | Focus on adult learners and deployed personnel | Accelerated courses, online learning flexibility, veteran advising and career counseling |
| American Military University (AMU) | National security and public service programs | Flexible online programs, military-savvy faculty, programs in cybersecurity and emergency management |
| Bellevue University | Serves adult learners and military professionals | CLEP exams, credit for military training, portfolio assessment for prior experience |
| Walden University | Emphasis on social change and public service | Veteran support programs, collaborative online learning, fully online degrees |
| Norwich University Online | Historic college with defense focus | Cybersecurity and counter-terrorism programs, flexible distance learning, career-oriented skill building |
| Troy University eCampus | 150 plus accredited online majors | Self-paced courses, guidance on digital learning, community engagement for military students |
Features That Make These Colleges Supportive
- Flexible Learning Options Many colleges offer asynchronous courses, accelerated programs, and self-paced learning, allowing active-duty members to continue education without interrupting service commitments
- Credit for Military Experience Several institutions evaluate prior military training or exams for degree credit, reducing time and cost toward graduation
- Tuition Assistance and Scholarships Military tuition discounts, GI Bill acceptance, and veteran-specific scholarships make education more affordable
- Support Services Academic advisors, career counseling, and peer mentorship help military learners with transition and career planning
- Career-Oriented Programs Programs in cybersecurity, aviation, emergency management, and public service prepare students for civilian careers that build on military skills
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Conclusion
Choosing the right online college as a service member or veteran shapes educational and career outcomes. The colleges listed provide flexible learning environments, recognize military experience, and offer strong support for military learners. Whether continuing a current career or starting a new path, these schools help students achieve academic success and professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in an online college as a military student
Look for flexible scheduling, military credit transfers, tuition assistance, and veteran support services
Can military training count toward college credit
Yes. Many online colleges evaluate military training for credit toward degrees
Do these schools accept the GI Bill or tuition assistance
Most listed schools accept both the GI Bill and other military education benefits
Can I attend classes while deployed
Yes. Online programs allow coursework to be completed from anywhere
How do I apply for military tuition benefits
Contact the admissions or financial aid office to verify eligibility and begin the process
Are support services available for transitioning veterans
Yes. Many institutions provide transition support, including academic advising, career services, and veteran-focused peer communities
Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.
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Article Title: 12 Best Online Colleges for Military Students and Veterans 2025
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