As a way to honor and show appreciation for those who serve their country, colleges and universities find ways to support veterans by offering them and their families financial assistance and support programs as they pursue their degrees. Military-friendly colleges in Vermont are the best colleges for veterans in Vermont who are ready to pursue a change in careers.
Since the Post-9/11 GI Bill went into effect in 2009, those who have served in the United States Armed Forces have the opportunity to have their education paid for by the federal government. The best military colleges in Vermont featured in this article have some of the support systems and programs that help vets not only get into college but with completing it faster as well.
Is It Hard to Get Into a Military-Friendly College in Vermont?
No, it is not hard to get into a military-friendly college in Vermont. There are many schools in the state dedicated to helping those who are serving or have served in the military obtain a degree. The programs vary by institution, so you have the option of choosing a school based on your needs.
Funding for Military-Friendly Schools in Vermont
There are over 10 military-friendly schools in Vermont. These institutions offer military service members, veterans, and their family members tuition discounts or scholarships. Some schools waive the application fee and book fee and accept credit for military training and military experience.
These programs currently offer benefits for veterans’ education in Vermont:
- Post 9/11 GI Bill
- All Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program (MGIB-AD)
- Educational Assistance for Members of the Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
- Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
Is College Free in Vermont if You Are a Veteran?
No, college is not free in Vermont if you are a veteran, but various tuition assistance programs and veteran benefits are available. While college is not guaranteed to be free, these programs and scholarships help take the majority of the financial load off your shoulders.
Is Vermont a Good Place to Go to a Military-Friendly College?
Yes, Vermont is a good place to go to a military-friendly college because there are many military-friendly colleges in the state, some of which we will take a closer look at below. All of these schools receive Post 9/11 GI Bill funds and offer programs that benefit veterans’ education. This gives military service members and veterans in Vermont several options.
Factors Vets Need to Consider When Choosing a School in Vermont
- Accreditation. Making sure a school is accredited is the best way to ensure that you receive a high-quality education and a legitimate degree. An accredited school is recognized by an accrediting agency as an institution that maintains a certain level of educational standards.
- Reputation. A school’s reputation is important for reasons that are similar to why accreditation is important. A good reputation is earned through providing high-quality education, so if a school has a good reputation, it is highly likely that you will receive your money’s worth in education.
- Cost. Affordability is a significant factor in choosing a school because you need to be able to pay for the entirety of your schooling. It’s important to figure out what you can afford before finding a school.
- Benefits. Because benefits and services vary by institution, you should be on the lookout for an institution that either offers the most benefits and programs or offers specific programs and benefits that you need
- Programs. Perhaps the most important factor of all is that of the programs offered by a school. Whatever degree program you choose to pursue should be one that you are interested in and excited by.
Best Military-Friendly Colleges in Vermont at a Glance
| College | # of Students Earning Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits | Average Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Bennington College | Undergrad: 5Grad: 2 | Undergrad: $36,025Grad: N/A |
| Castleton University | Undergrad: 32Grad: 1 | Undergrad: $8,089Grad: $3,292 |
| Champlain College | Undergrad: 134Grad: 51 | Undergrad: $8,880Grad: $5,588 |
| Community College of Vermont | Undergrad: 81Grad: 13 | Undergrad: $4,494Grad: $2,522 |
| Middlebury College | Undergrad: 14Grad: 2 | Undergrad: $16,387Grad: N/A |
| Northern Vermont University | Undergrad: 33Grad: 1 | Undergrad: $8,107Grad: N/A |
| Norwich University | Undergrad: 127 Grad:301 |
Undergrad: $16,539Grad: $9,890 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Undergrad: 8,856Grad: 1,629 | Undergrad: $5,597Grad: $6,643 |
| University of Vermont | Undergrad: 81Grad: 10 | Undergrad: $18,723Grad: $18,386 |
| Vermont Technical College | Undergrad: 71Grad: 0 | Undergrad: $11,445Grad: N/A |
Best Colleges for Veterans in Vermont
Bennington College | Bennignton, VT
Bennington College is a private college founded in 1932. The college has small class sizes and is recognized by Princeton Review as one of the colleges offering the best classroom experience in the nation.
Bennington College is a Yellow Ribbon school and offers GI Bill-approved programs. Those who are eligible military and veteran students are able to have up to 100 percent of their cost of tuition covered.
Bennington College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $60,648/year
- Graduate Tuition: $25,000/year
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- US News Liberal Arts Ranking: 79
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post 9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Bennington College
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 5
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 2
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Castleton University | Castleton, VT
Castleton University is a public university founded in 1787 and was Vermont’s first institution of higher education. The university offers over 75 liberal arts and sciences programs and professional and career preparation programs.
At Castleton University, veterans receive readjustment counseling through the White River Junction Veterans center. Counselors provide individual and group counseling for combat veterans, their military spouses, and their families.
Castleton University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $493/credit (in state), $1,200/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $662/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- US News Regional Ranking: 26
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Castleton University
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 35
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 1
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $3,292
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Middlebury College | Middlebury, VT
Middlebury College offers more than 45 departments and academic programs with various majors and minors. Popular majors include computer science, environmental studies, econometrics and quantitative economics, neuroscience, and political science. The school also provides educational benefit programs for veterans and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Middlebury College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $31,000/semester
- Graduate Tuition: $31,000/semester
- Acceptance Rate: 13%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- US News Liberal Arts Ranking: 9
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Middlebury College
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 14
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 2
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
Southern New Hampshire University | Colchester, VT
There are over 300 educational programs offered at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) in areas of study including business, health, social sciences, engineering, liberal arts, and education. The SNHU Vermont campus caters to the different needs of students by offering high-quality and affordable customized professional development courses, as well as master’s and doctoral degree programs.
SNHU prides itself on its support for military service members and their families over the past 80 years. The institution offers up to 30 percent off tuition for active-duty personnel and spouses, allows for up to 90 transfer credits towards bachelor’s degrees, and provides dedicated military support from students’ first day up to their graduation.
Southern New Hampshire University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Graduate Tuition: $18,900/year
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- US News National Ranking: 131 – 171
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Southern New Hampshire University
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 15,967
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 2271
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $7,564
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $8,486
University of Vermont | Burlington, VT
The University of Vermont (UVM) offers over 200 degree programs. UVM’s Student Veteran Services provides support, education, and other military benefits for veterans, military students, and VA students to help them transition to higher education after serving in the armed forces. UVM’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program assists very low-income veteran families.
University of Vermont Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $678/credit (in state), $1,720/credit (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $678/credit (in state), $1,720/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- US News National Ranking: 117
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at University of Vermont
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 81
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 10
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $0
How Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Work?
The way that the Post-9/11 GI Bill works is by helping veterans and their families pay for education or job training. It went into effect in 2009 for those who were active duty service members after September 10, 2001.
Who Is Eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
To be considered an eligible veteran for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you must meet at least one of four requirements. One of the requirements is having served at least 90 days as an active duty service member on or after September 11, 2001. Another is that you must have received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, and have been honorably discharged after any amount of service.
A third requirement is having served for at least 30 continuous days on or after September 11, 2001, and having been honorably discharged with a service-connected disability. The last is being a dependent child using military benefits transferred by a qualifying veteran or service member parent.
What Does the GI Bill Cover?
The GI Bill covers payment of tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for textbooks and supplies. If you attend a public school, it provides you with tuition benefits and covers fees at the in-state rate.
Top 5 Things You Need to Know About the GI Bill
- You are only allowed to choose and use one of the education benefits for a period of service. Once you have chosen, you can’t use a different education benefit.
- Many applicants are eligible for only 36 months of VA education benefits. Although, you may be able to get a maximum of 48 months, not including Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) benefits.
- The full cost of public, in-state tuition and fees is covered if you qualify for the maximum benefit, but the rates are capped for private and foreign schools and updated each year.
- If your service ended before January 1, 2013, your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits will expire 15 years from your last separation date from active service and all of your benefits must be used by that time or they’ll be forfeited.
- The amount of benefits you get depends on the school you attend, how much active-duty service you’ve had since September 10, 2001, and how many credit hours or training hours you’re taking.
How to Apply for the GI Bill and Related Benefits
To apply for the GI Bill and related benefits, you’ll need to follow a few steps, including figuring out if you’re eligible and preparing your documents for the application. Let’s take a look at the steps required in more detail.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
As previously mentioned, there are certain requirements that you must meet to be eligible to receive these benefits. Go through the list of requirements to see if you qualify before you apply.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Once you have determined that you meet the minimum requirements and are eligible to apply, you will need to gather all the necessary documents and information required for your application to be processed.
Step 3: Double-check
After gathering your documents, and filling out your application, go over everything once more to make sure that you haven’t left anything out or made any mistakes. This is important because you can’t make any changes to your application once it has been submitted.
Step 4: Submit Application
There are different ways to apply, including submitting an online application, applying by mail, going to the VA office in your region and applying in person, or enlisting the help of an accredited representative who is a trained professional.
Step 5: Wait for Application to be Processed
Wait for your application to be processed. You will be notified once a decision concerning your eligibility for education benefits has been made. This process takes approximately 30 days, after which you should receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for the GI Bill?
The documents you need to apply for the GI Bill include your social security number and your bank account direct deposit information. You will also need to provide your education and military history and your basic information about the school or training facility you want to attend or are attending.
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These are the documents you need to apply for the GI Bill:
- Social security number
- Bank account direct deposit information
- Education history
- Military history
- Basic school or training facility information
What Are the Best Online Military-Friendly Colleges in Vermont?
Some of the best online military-friendly colleges in Vermont include Norwich University, Champlain College, and Vermont Technical College. Some military-friendly colleges in the state are fully online, while others offer hybrid learning options. These schools offer online degree programs that provide students with more flexibility, convenience, and opportunities to reach their career goals.
These are the best online military-friendly colleges in Vermont:
- Norwich University
- Champlain College
- Community College of Vermont
- Northern Vermont University
- Vermont Technical College
Best Online Colleges for Veterans in Vermont
Champlain College
Champlain College was established in 1878 and is ranked 40th in Best Colleges for Veterans by US News & World Report. The school offers over 60 affordable online degree programs with fully online courses and coursework that are accessible 24/7. You can choose from degrees in cyber security, healthcare, business, or information technology.
The Champlain College Veterans Services Office provides the school’s military and veteran students with access to military and VA education benefit information and services. Various kinds of financial aid and military benefits are available to military service members and veterans at Champlain, as well as programs relevant to members of the Armed Forces.
Champlain College Overview
- Online Tuition: $318/credit (regular), $250/credit (military service member)
- Acceptance Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- US News Regional Ranking: 62
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and military families
- Recognized student veteran organization
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Champlain College
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 207
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 73
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,462
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $2,074
Community College of Vermont
The Community College of Vermont (CCV) was established in 1970 and has 12 campuses alongside online learning options. There are 12 degree and 22 certificate programs offered at the institution, including continuing education options and academic and veterans support services. CCV also offers the lowest cost per credit in the state of Vermont.
CCV serves over 400 veteran and military students each semester and is one of the state’s top military-friendly schools. The school is committed to assisting those who have transitioned out of the military, as well as those who are still serving or are military dependents.
Community College of Vermont Overview
- Online Tuition: $280/credit (in state); $560/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and military families
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Community College of Vermont
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 94
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: N/A
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,522
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: N/A
Northern Vermont University
Northern Vermont University (NVU) is a public university that offers high-quality, flexible, and affordable online programs. Distance learners and online students have a choice between seven-week and fifteen-week courses in the fall and spring. You can also choose to pursue accelerated and traditional-length courses offered in the summer.
NVU aims to support and provide financial aid to veterans, military spouses, and their families, and its in-state tuition rates are only applicable to veterans receiving the Post 9/11 GI Bill or dependents of veterans who are receiving their parents’ benefits.
Northern Vermont University Overview
- Online Tuition: $355/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- US News Regional Ranking: 131 – 171
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Northern Vermont University
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 35
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 1
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: N/A
Norwich University
Norwich University was founded in 1819 and was the first private military college in the US. It is among the top 10 schools in the country that prepare commissioned officers for service in the Department of Defense and Coast Guard. Over 90 percent of the university’s students join military service, study towards a graduate degree, or start a business after graduation.
With DoD Tuition Assistance, the GI Bill, and the Yellow Ribbon Program, out-of-pocket tuition costs are minimized at Norwich. Additionally, scholarship opportunities for active-duty personnel are offered to assist students in pursuing their degrees.
Norwich University Overview
- Online Tuition: $250/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- US News Regional Ranking: 55
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for military veterans, military service members, and military families
- Recognized student veteran organization
- Member of Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Norwich University
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 478
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 327
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $2,473
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: $3,541
Vermont Technical College
Vermont Technical College (Vermont Tech or VTC) was founded in 1866 and offers bachelor’s and associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education programs. Some of its most popular areas of study include marketing, architecture, engineering, business, and information sciences.
At Vermont Tech, financial aid programs and loans are offered to service members to cover expenses, and Guard members are eligible for free tuition.
Vermont Technical College Overview
- Online Tuition: $613/credit (in state); $1,172/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 56%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- US News Regional Ranking: 26
Services and Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program
- Credit for military training
- Dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families
Overview of Veteran Benefits Awarded at Vermont Technical College
- Number of Undergraduates Receiving Benefits: 73
- Number of Graduates Receiving Benefits: 0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Undergraduates: $0
- Average Amount of Assistance Awarded via DoD to Graduates: N/A
Can I Get College Credit for My Military Training?
Yes, you can get college credit for your military training. The American Council on Education (ACE) works with the DoD to review military training and experience and recommend the correct college credits for members of the Armed Forces.
Active-duty military personnel, veterans, and members of the Reserves who want to get college credit for their training can request their transcripts from their branches of service and send them to their schools. The number of credits accepted will vary according to each institution’s rules.
As a Vet, Do I Have to Meet the Same Requirements as Regular Students?
Yes, as a vet you have to meet the same requirements as regular students because most schools do not offer separate or different admissions processes for applicants who have served in the military.
What differs for vets, when compared with regular prospective students, is the benefits and opportunities for veterans, the scholarships that they can apply for, and their transferable credits. It’s recommended to contact each school directly if you are unsure of any step of the application process.
Applying to College: 5 Tips for Veteran Students
In order to make the application process as seamless as possible, there is a wide range of factors to take into consideration for veteran students applying to college. These range from benefits applications to transfer credits and making use of useful resources.
- Use available resources. Most institutions offer useful online resources or have a department dedicated to helping military students navigate the application process. Making use of it can save time and energy.
- Early benefits application. Getting a head start on your GI Bill benefits ensures that you’re not scrambling to get it done along with everything else at the last minute.
- Choosing the right school. Some schools offer more benefits than others. Do the research to find out which institutions offer the most.
- VA-approved schools. Using the VA website helps you determine which schools are VA-approved and will allow you to make use of your transfer credits.
- Find a military-friendly school. Not only will you most likely receive the best assistance at a military-friendly school, but chances are high that you will find a community of military students who have similar life experiences as you.
Should You Attend a Military-Friendly School in Vermont?
Yes, you should attend a military-friendly school in Vermont. The state offers veterans plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, for those who have served in the military, acclimating to a regular way of life and seeking out higher education can be somewhat daunting and overwhelming.
Military-friendly colleges not only offer additional assistance and benefits to award veterans for their service, but they provide an environment that allows you to be around other vets with whom you share experiences that a majority of the world’s population can not relate to.
Military-Friendly Colleges in Vermont FAQ
A military-friendly college is a school that offers significant support systems for military service members and veterans. Support can include veterans benefits for veterans and their families, military tuition assistance, and career services to facilitate an easy transition into civilian life and education.
You should go to school whenever the opportunity presents itself to you, and you are both ready and willing to pursue it. There is no right or wrong time to go to school, whether that is before you join the military or after.
The best military-friendly college is the University of Chicago, according to US News & World Report, which has ranked the school number one in Best Colleges for Veterans.
Yes, military-friendly colleges offer discounted and affordable tuition rates for veterans and their dependents. This helps veterans better manage the cost of tuition for postsecondary education. Some schools may also provide military tuition discounts to vets and their families.
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