Florida offers a wide range of financial aid and support programs to members of the military community and their families. If you’re interested in earning a college degree and achieving your educational goals after completing your service, there are several military-friendly colleges in Florida that can help with your professional development through an in-person or online program.
With the advancement in higher education and the unique offerings of the best military colleges in Florida, the end of service can be the start of an exciting career for you. The best colleges for veterans in Florida give you access to quality academic programs, dedicated student support, tuition discounts, veteran centers, flexible course schedules, and career services.
Is It Hard to Get Into a Military-Friendly College in Florida?
No, it is not hard to get into a military-friendly college in Florida. Although you’ll be required to meet the same admissions requirements as regular students, your military background and experience can strengthen your college application and increase your chances of receiving a letter of acceptance from the admissions office.
Funding for Military-Friendly Schools in Florida
A total of 570 institutions in Florida hold Post-9/11 GI Bill approval according to the US Department of Veterans Affairs. These institutions, which include community colleges, training centers, as well as public and private universities, offer local, state, and federal financial aid programs in addition to educational benefits to military service members, veterans, and dependent children.
These programs currently offer benefits for veterans’ education in Florida:
- Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Tuition waivers, including Congressman C.W. Young Tuition Waiver Program, Active Duty Military waivers, and Purple Heart Recipient waivers
- Honorably Discharged Graduate Assistance Program
- Scholarships for children and spouses of deceased or disabled veteran programs
- US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) educational benefits including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Survivors, and dependents educational assistance (DEA), Montgomery GI Bill, The Yellow Ribbon Program, Marine Gunnery Seargent John David Fry Scholarship Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP), Reserve Educational help Program (REAP)
- Veteran High School Diploma Program
- Veteran Florida Entrepreneurship Program
Is College Free in Florida if You Are a Veteran?
College is free in Florida if you are a veteran, but only if you have earned a Purple Heart or a combat decoration considered superior in precedence. While there are many benefits provided to college students who are veterans studying in Florida, most of them do not provide full tuition waivers.
Is Florida a Good Place to Go to a Military-Friendly College?
Yes, Florida is a good place to go to a military-friendly college. As previously mentioned, there are 570 post-secondary institutions in Florida that offer educational benefits to veteran college students. These schools provide scholarship awards, tuition waivers, military service to college credit programs, and tuition reductions to military service members and veterans in Florida.
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Factors Vets Need to Consider When Choosing a School in Florida
- Reputation. Employers care about which school you attend. Attending an elite school can boost your resume and value to potential clients and employers. Make sure that the school and program you choose are nationally or regionally accredited, as federal and state financial aid opportunities are typically limited to accredited schools.
- Availability of school-funded aid. The aid you qualify for may not be sufficient to cover the entire cost of your tuition, especially at a private university. Your best bet is to consider prospective schools that offer scholarships and work-study programs beyond those offered by the state and federal governments.
- Degree levels offered. While pursuing a master’s degree or PhD can be more expensive, holding an advanced degree can give you a significant advantage in your search for employment. Not all schools offer the same degree programs and a small or mid-size school may be more limited in their selection, so choose accordingly.
- Availability of veteran organizations and clubs. Some schools have fewer veteran-oriented services than others. Make sure to research whether or not the schools you are considering provide the resources, such as a student veterans center or veterans affairs office, you need to achieve whatever education goal you have.
- School’s employment outcomes. Your prospective schools should have a high employment outcome and a dedicated career resource center. These centers offer career fairs, job boards, career advising, workshops, and networking events that help their students build their professional resumes, portfolios, and interview skills.
Best Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida at a Glance
| College | # of Students Earning Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Average Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide | Undergrad: 3,797 Grad: 1,390 |
Undergrad: $6,111 Grad: $5,446 |
| Florida Atlantic University | Undergrad: 320 Grad: 85 |
Undergrad: $5,116 Grad: $9,628 |
| Florida International University Online | Undergrad: 558 Grad: 217 |
Undergrad: $3,929 Grad: $7,947 |
| Florida Institute of Technology Online | Undergrad: 142 Grad: 156 |
Undergrad: $21,118 Grad: $7,174 |
| Florida State University | Undergrad: 423 Grad: 247 |
Undergrad: $4,825 Grad: $8,818 |
| Jacksonville University | Undergrad: 275 Grad: 74 |
Undergrad: $23,189 Grad: $12,435 |
| Saint Leo University | Undergrad: 1,704 Grad: 591 |
Undergrad: $4,667 Grad: $6,406 |
| University of Central Florida Online | Undergrad: 1,049 Grad: 158 |
Undergrad: $4,821 Grad: $7,416 |
| University of Florida Online | Undergrad: 316 Grad: 344 |
Undergrad: $5,052 Grad: $14,809 |
| University of South Florida | Undergrad: 977 Grad: 269 |
Undergrad: $5,102 Grad: $8,517 |
Best Colleges for Veterans in Florida
How Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Work?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill was enacted by Congress as an educational assistance program. This federal legislature was designed to provide educational funding to individuals who’ve provided active service duty after September 10, 2001. The program provides educational benefits in the form of monthly stipends for around 36 months to pay for the cost of education or career training.
Who Is Eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
You’re eligible to receive the Post-9/11 GI Bill if you’ve served for up to 90 consecutive or non-consecutive days of active duty on or after September 11, 2001. You’re also eligible if you received a Purple Heart or served continuously for 30 days on or after the same date and were honorably discharged.
As a dependent of a service member or veteran, you can also apply for the GI Bill if a qualified veteran or service member transferred the benefits to you. Members of the Reserve who lost their education benefits after the Reserve Educational Assistance Program was cut off in November of 2015 can still qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
What Does the GI Bill Cover?
The GI Bill can partially or fully cover the cost of your college education, work-study, online classes, and career or trade training depending on the school and program you’re enrolled in. The bill’s monthly stipends can be used toward tuition and educational fees such as standardized tests, housing, relocation for school, counseling, textbooks, and supplies.
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the GI Bill
- You can only use one education benefit (Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty, Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve, DEA, or Post-9/11 GI Bill) for a service period. Once you’ve chosen a benefit, you can change your mind. If you do not choose, one will be assigned to you.
- You can receive educational benefits for a maximum period of 48 months. This stipulation does not cover Employment or Veteran Readiness benefits and, in most cases, you’ll only receive benefits for 36 months.
- Your educational benefits only cover public in-state tuition and fees rates. College students attending a private school or foreign school will receive a capped rate, based on the updated rates for the current year.
- Your GI Bill can expire. If you ended your service before January 1, 2013, your GI Bill will expire 15 years after your last separation date. If you ended on or after January 1, 2013, it cannot expire under the Forever GI Bill law.
- The Post-GI Bill comes with additional benefits which can also be transferred to a spouse or child. You can apply to the Yellow Ribbon Program if you have to cover out-of-state tuition or are attending private school.
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How to Apply for the GI Bill and Related Benefits
To apply for the GI Bill and related benefits, there are a few steps you’ll need to take. By sending in an application to access your military educational benefits, you’ll be able to find out your eligibility status and what award you qualify for. If you’re ready to pursue your dream career, below is a step-by-step guide to applying for the GI Bill that can get you going.
Step 1: Visit the Veteran Affairs (VA) Website
To receive a meaningful benefit from your GI Bill education benefits, you’ll first need to visit the VA website or your school’s website and familiarize yourself with the application requirements, the terms of the GI Bill, and the schools approved for VA benefits. Some schools provide resources for prospective veterans or service members to help them determine their eligibility.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
You’ll be expected to provide information or documents like your social security number, bank information, educational background, military service history, and information on your prospective college. If you’re active-duty personnel, you’ll need approval from your chain of command or education service office before applying. Veterans may need to include a DD 214 Form.
Step 3: Complete Your Financial Aid Application
You should submit your military education benefits application at the same time as your FAFSA form. It usually takes 45 to 60 days to receive your certificate of eligibility, which allows you to access your benefits. You can apply for the GI Bill and other benefits online, by mail, or in person whether on your own or with the help of your school’s financial aid office.
Step 4: Proceed With Your School Certification Process
Once you’ve received a certificate of eligibility from the VA, you can begin the certification process at your school’s veteran education center. The certification process validates your access to education benefits and specifies which education benefits you’ll use and what degree program it applies to. The VA takes usually takes two to three weeks to process this.
Step 5: Use Your Education Benefits
Once your certification has been processed, your school will receive monthly stipends on your behalf. Keep in mind that the GI Bill isn’t your only financial aid option. A military-friendly college will often provide veteran students access to scholarships and special fee waivers through their Veterans Resource Center.
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What Documents Do I Need to Apply for the GI Bill?
The documents you need to apply for the GI Bill as a veteran, active-duty service member, or military family member include documents that validate your high school or college education, your social security number, your military service history, bank information, and college acceptance or enrollment.
These are the documents you need to apply for the GI Bill:
- Your social security number
- Your education and military history
- Your bank account direct deposit information
- Basic information about the school or training facility you want to attend or are attending now
- You may need to provide a certificate of release or discharge from active duty with a DD Form 214 for all periods of active duty
- If you’re applying for the Montgomery GI Bill for selected reserve, you’ll need a Notice of Basic Eligibility, DD Form 2384
- Copies of your orders if you were activated from the guards or reserves
- A college fund “kicker” contract for additional monthly payments
- Supporting documents, such as bank statements or vouchers, for buy-up or buy-in contributions
What Are the Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida?
The best online military-friendly colleges in Florida offer flexible and diverse degree programs. They often also offer lax application processes to veterans and service members. The online schools listed below offer both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Our top five are based on the best online bachelor’s programs for veterans ranked by US News & World Report.
These are the best online military-friendly colleges in Florida:
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
- Florida Institute of Technology Online
- Florida International University Online
- University of Central Florida Online
- University of Florida Online
Best Online Colleges for Veterans in Florida
Can I Get College Credit for My Military Training?
Yes, you can get college credit for your military training as long as you’re an active-duty service member, a member of the reserves, or a veteran. All you have to do is request your official transcript from the military branch in which you served and forward it to your school of choice. Keep in mind that your credits can only be applied to a degree program.
The American Council on Education (ACE) reviews military experience and training to award college credits. This credit guide is followed by colleges in awarding credits. The primary benefit attached to earning college credits from military service is the opportunity to shorten your program completion timeline and reduce the overall cost of your tuition.
As a Vet, Do I Have to Meet the Same Requirements as Regular Students?
Yes, you’ll be required to meet the same admission and degree requirements as regular students in most schools. You’ll still have to submit your college application within the allotted time frame. You’ll also have to meet the same enrollment and graduation eligibility requirements as regular students, especially in terms of your grade point average and test scores.
The veteran organizations at your school can help you convert your military training to college credits, get tuition aid for your degree program, and influence the admissions decisions through your supplemental documents. If you’re looking for a flexible educational experience, you should consider enrolling in a hybrid or online degree program.
Applying to College: 5 Tips for Veteran Students
The basic thing you should know as a prospective veteran student is that you have what it takes to succeed as a civilian, and more importantly, a student. With that said, here are the five tips you need to make your transition seamless.
- Decide what state you want to go to school in. When choosing which state you want to study in, you need to consider how it ranks in terms of education, economy, and fiscal stability. According to the US news report, Florida ranks among the top ten states for these factors, making it a great place to study.
- Apply early for your military benefits. As military personnel, a dependent, or a spouse, you can access financial aid from the US government. Because the time to process these financial aid packages can go up to two months, applying early or at the same time as you apply for the FAFSA is highly recommended.
- Consider your academic and career goals. Your chosen major and degree type can often depend on the nature of your service. If you’re still serving, you should choose a discipline that allows you to build specialized technical skills that boost your value. If you’re no longer serving, you should explore a discipline that aligns with your passions.
- Pick a college that offers many student services. Aside from comparing your GI Bill benefits, you should also review each school’s student services such as their learning facilities, career services, veteran services, student organizations, and co-op programs. A school high in the national school rankings can boost your value to potential employers.
- Emphasize your value through your college application. Being a member of the military community has its benefits during admissions. Your college essay is a great place where you can give an insight into your experience and how it has sharpened your leadership skills, community involvement, and learning abilities.
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Should You Attend a Military-Friendly School in Florida?
Yes, you should attend a military-friendly school in Florida. Florida is one of the most pro-military states in the country. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, Florida is the state with the third-highest veteran population. Most colleges and universities in Florida provide a wide range of educational support and financial aid programs to both in-state and out-of-state veteran students.
Beyond that, you can look forward to gainful employment in Florida as soon as you graduate. Florida has one of the best employment rates for veterans in the country, according to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, 42 percent of the state’s veteran and military population in the civilian labor force is employed.
Military-Friendly Colleges in Florida FAQ
Yes, Florida is a military-friendly state. Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and dependents can look forward to plenty of veteran services and aid from the state including retirement pay, college counseling, nursing and assisted living facilities, recreational benefits, life insurance, reemployment benefits, and a military-friendly and veterans resource guide.
The best college for active-duty military personnel is an accredited college offering a supportive environment for military personnel and their affiliates. Community colleges and four-year schools in Florida offer military tuition reduction and assistance programs. Schools like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the University of Central Florida are at the top of the heap.
The best course for military service is any applied discipline that allows you to apply your skills and knowledge to solving complex issues in the military. Technical majors like strategic intelligence, cyber security, criminal justice, nursing, finance, aviation, information technology, business management, and psychology are highly beneficial.
Yes, it is better to go to college before joining the military because of the hands-on skills and experience it offers you. With a college education, you’ll more easily be able to access higher-up positions while serving.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
