• micro-credentials
• certificates
• traditional degrees 

But with more options comes more confusion. Which path is best? Which one will help someone earn more, move up, or change careers? And how much time and money does each take?

This guide compares micro-credentials vs certificates vs degrees. It explains what each credential is, how long it takes, how much it costs, and how it can impact a person’s career. By the end, the reader will be able to decide which one fits their goals and lifestyle best.

Related:

• Business Micro-Credentials for Career Advancement
• Microlearning and Certificate Programs: Higher Education & Career Trends
• Best Accredited Non-Degree Certifications In Demand
• Highest Paying Online Certificate Programs
• Best FAFSA-Approved Online Certificate Programs
• Top Free Accredited Online Courses With Certificates

What Are Micro-Credentials, Certificates, and Degrees?

To start the comparison between micro-credentials vs certificates vs degrees, it’s important to understand the core differences in what each represents and how they fit into today’s evolving educational landscape.

What Are Micro-Credentials?

Micro-credentials are small, skill-focused learning experiences. Instead of studying a whole subject for months or years, a learner focuses on one specific skill. This might be something like incident investigation, AI fundamentals, digital marketing, or hazard identification.

Micro-credentials usually last 4–8 weeks, though some are even shorter. They’re available through:

• Universities
• Industry associations
• Online platforms like Coursera, edX, or LinkedIn Learning

Some well-known examples include:

• Google Data Analytics Certificate
• IBM AI Engineering Badge
• Meta Social Media Marketing Certificate

They can also “stack” several micro-credentials over time to build a broader skill set. Many people use them to fill gaps in their knowledge, switch industries, or stay current with workplace demands.

Key benefits of micro-credentials:

• Quick to complete
• Lower cost than long programs
• Flexible—most are online and self-paced
• Useful for filling small skill gaps
• Often aligned with employer needs
• Can sometimes count toward a certificate or degree

What Is a Certificate Program?

Certificates are a step up in depth and structure. They focus on a specific field or skillset but cover more ground than micro-credentials. Instead of one skill, a learner studies a cluster of related topics.

Certificate programs usually last 3–12 months and may be for-credit, meaning they can sometimes be used toward a future degree. They’re typically offered by:

• Accredited universities
• Colleges
• Professional organizations

Common examples include:

• Graduate Certificate in Project Management
• Certificate in Early Childhood Education
• Certificate in Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental Systems

Key benefits of certificate programs:

• More in-depth than micro-credentials
• Often recognized by employers for mid-level or specialist roles
• Sometimes transferable into degree programs
• Provide access to academic advising and student services
• Offer networking opportunities with peers and faculty

Important Note: Certificates are not the same as certifications. Here’s a quick overview of the differences between certificate vs certification:

• Certificates are earned by completing a structured program, focusing on learning a specific skill set. No exam is required beyond course assessments.
• Professional organizations award certifications after passing an exam that proves your expertise in a specific area. Certifications often require renewal through continuing education.

What Is a Degree?

Degrees are the most comprehensive type of credential. They’re formal academic qualifications earned through accredited colleges or universities. Degrees come in different levels:

• Associate degree (about 2 years)
• Bachelor’s degree (3–4 years)
• Master’s degree (1–3 years)
• Doctoral degree (3–7 years)

Examples include:

• Bachelor’s in Business Administration
• Associate Degree in Occupational Health and Safety
• Master’s in Public Health

Degrees require the most time and money, but they also bring the most long-term career benefits. Employers often require them for leadership or advanced roles, and degrees tend to correlate with higher lifetime earnings.

Key benefits of degrees:

• Broad and deep education
• Strongest recognition by employers
• Higher earning potential
• Better access to promotions and leadership roles
• Eligibility for advanced study
• Access to academic and career support
• Strong networking opportunities

Compare Time, Cost, Recognition, Career Impact

Here’s the nitty-gritty part of the differences between micro-credentials vs certificates vs degrees.

Time Commitment

• Micro-credentials offer maximum flexibility. They work well for adults with busy schedules who want fast results. 
• Certificates take longer but still fit easily into part-time or online formats. 
• Degrees require the longest commitment, though many schools now offer accelerated or fully online options.

Cost Comparison

So, which has the best return on investment (ROI): micro-credentials vs traditional degrees vs certificates? The ROI depends on goals. 

• Micro-credentials offer the fastest ROI because they are low-cost and lead to quick skill growth. 
• Certificates offer stronger long-term value and higher employer recognition. 
• Degrees bring the highest lifetime earnings and open the most doors.

Career Impact: Micro-Credential vs Degree vs Certificate for Career Advancement

Research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that degrees usually lead to higher long-term income. However, micro-credentials are excellent for quickly updating skills or getting a foot in the door. Certificates fall in the middle, making them strong options for professional growth.

Note: Some certificates may take as long as an accelerated associate degree. However, the main difference between certificates and degrees remains: certificates focus on building specific, job-ready skills. In contrast, degrees build broad academic foundations and open doors to a wider range of long-term career paths.

When to Choose Which Path

Here are a few quick tips when deciding between certificate vs degree vs diploma.

When a Micro-Credential Makes Sense

Online micro-credentials programs are ideal when someone wants to:

• Learn fast
• Add a skill to their resume
• Test a new career field
• Stay up to date with regulations
• Switch industries
• Improve employability without a big commitment

Micro-credentials especially fit freelancers, consultants, career changers, and people who enjoy lifelong learning.

When a Certificate Program Is the Best Fit

Are certificates worth it? Absolutely, especially for those who want to:

• Deepen expertise in a specific field
• Qualify for mid-level or specialist roles
• Refresh their skills after time away from the workforce
• Gain a credential that might transfer into a degree
• Prepare for a promotion

Many universities offer “laddered” programs where a certificate counts as the first stage of a degree. This creates an affordable and flexible path for long-term growth.

When to Invest in a Full Degree

A degree is the strongest choice when someone wants to:

• Work in a field that requires licensure (nursing, teaching, engineering).
• Earn a higher long-term salary.
• Move up to leadership roles.
• Build a broad academic foundation.
• Qualify for master’s or doctoral programs.
• Change careers completely.

Degrees remain the gold standard for employer recognition, especially for management roles.

Future Trends in Education Credentials

The shift toward skills-first hiring is reshaping what future education credentials will look like. In fact, nearly 65% of U.S. employers are already using skills-based hiring practices to evaluate new candidates. Plus, 30% are actively adopting skill-based recruitment. As a result:

• Micro-credentials are becoming widely accepted
• Universities and employers are forming partnerships (such as Google + Arizona State University)
• Stackable credentials are becoming common—micro-credentials that count toward certificates or degrees
• Online education is projected to grow through 2026 and beyond

With online learning expanding rapidly and employers expecting to hire staff with new skills while transitioning workers into growing roles, 2026 is on track to be a milestone year for flexible, modular, skill-centered education pathways. 

How to Decide: A Quick Comparison Table

Conclusion + Call to Action

The best credential depends on someone’s goals, time, and budget. Each option brings real value—but in different ways.

• Micro-credentials build skills fast.
• Certificates deepen expertise.
• Degrees unlock long-term stability and leadership potential.

No path is “better” than the others. They simply serve different purposes at different stages of a person’s career.

For anyone thinking about their next step, the most important question is:

What do I want my future to look like—and which credential will help me get there?

Explore accredited online programs and start building the credential path that fits your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between micro-credentials and certificates?

Micro-credentials are short and focus on a single skill. Certificates offer broader study and are more recognized by employers.

Are micro-credentials worth it for career advancement?

Yes, especially for filling skill gaps, staying up to date, or exploring a new field. They complement other credentials and can boost employability.

Do micro-credentials count toward degrees?

Sometimes. Many universities now allow certain micro-credentials to “stack” into certificates or degree programs.

The post Micro-Credentials vs. Certificates vs. Degrees: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

You’ll want to make the right choice because both the GRE and GMAT demand time, effort, and money to pass. Besides, your choice will influence the strength of your applications to graduate schools.

So, GRE vs. GMAT: what are their similarities and differences? Both are standardized tests used for admission into graduate degree programs. Graduate schools use these tests to assess applicants’ readiness for advanced studies.

But therein stops their similarities. In general, the GRE is a general exam suitable for numerous disciplines, from business to STEM. The GMAT is designed for graduate business programs.

You must be asking the question, “Should I take the GRE or GMAT?” The answer depends on many factors. You must determine the specific discipline you want to pursue first.

Here, we’ll discuss the factors that influence your choice between the GRE and GMAT. We must emphasize that the GRE is also gaining popularity for MBA programs. The GRE is also popular for online programs due to its flexibility and broad coverage.

Related:

• Best GMAT Test Prep Options
• Graduate Exam Mastery: Customized Prep for GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT
• Best GRE Test Prep Options
• Cheapest Accredited Online MBA Programs

Overview of the GRE and GMAT

Know the basics of the GRE and GMAT first to make an informed decision.

What Is the GRE

The Educational Testing Service or ETS administers the Graduate Record Examination. GRE is a widely accepted standardized test applies to a wide range of graduate programs.

The GRE was originally intended as an admission requirement for non-business graduate programs. But in recent years, it has gained popularity among business programs. Harvard, Stanford, and Columbia’s business schools are notable examples.

There are three main sections in the GRE, as follows:

• Verbal Reasoning
• Quantitative Reasoning
• Analytical Writing

Candidates have about two hours to complete it. There’s no single pass score but above 320+ is considered good. Check with graduate programs for their specific score requirements.

What Is the GMAT?

The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) administers the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). It’s specifically designed for candidates who want to pursue business degrees.

As such, it tests the candidate’s knowledge and skills for business school, including:

• Data analysis
• Logical reasoning
• Quantitative and qualitative reasoning

The GMAT is the gold standard for top-tier MBA programs. MIT, UChicago, and UPenn are notable examples.

The GMAT Focus Edition consists of three sections with a 45-minute time-to-completion each:

• Quantitative Reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning
• Data Insights

Candidates have 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete it; there’s a 10-minute optional break. Getting between 645 and 695 is considered a strong score.

Key Differences Between the GRE and GMAT

Then, it pays to know the GRE vs. GMAT differences, too.

Test Structure

The most notable difference between the GRE and GMAT is their test structure and focus. The GRE emphasizes both mathematical and verbal skills (i.e., broad coverage). The analytical writing section tests an applicant’s argumentative and critical thinking skills.

The GMAT emphasizes business-related practical reasoning skills. There’s also a strong emphasis on data analysis from many sources.

Scoring Systems

The GRE has the following scoring system:

• 130-170 for the verbal and quantitative reasoning sections
• 0-6 for the analytical writing section

The GMAT’s scoring system is as follows:

• 60-90 for each section
• 200-800 total score

Each section of the GMAT has equal weight in the total score.

In a GMAT vs GRE score comparison, graduate programs usually use conversion tools. These are used to assess GMAT scores against GRE scores and vice versa.

Math Difficulty Level

GMAT math is generally more challenging than GRE math. While the GMAT has complex math problems, the GRE features straightforward ones.

Candidates cannot use calculators in the GMAT Quantitative section. But calculators are allowed in the GRE.

Verbal Differences

GRE has a stronger vocabulary component than the GMAT. There’s a greater emphasis on advanced vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

Which test is easier: the GRE or GMAT? Both are challenging in their ways. Their difficulty also depends on your strengths.

Which Test Do Business Schools Prefer?

Traditionally, GMAT scores were the gold standard for admission into graduate business programs. But there’s been an increase in the acceptance of the GRE for business school admissions, too.

In Kaplan Test Prep’s 2015 survey, an all-time high of 90% of business schools allowed applicants to submit the GRE instead of the GMAT. The survey covered 222 business schools across the UK and US.

Among the prestigious universities that accept both GRE and GMAT scores without preference over the other include:

• Yale University School of Management
• Duke University Fuqua School of Business
• New York University Stern School of Business
• Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business
• Georgia Institute of Technology Scheller College of Business

The choice between submitting the GRE or GMAT for MBA applications is yours to make now. You’ll even find MBA and other graduate programs with a GRE/GMAT waiver policy. However, you must demonstrate significant work experience, a strong undergraduate GPA, and quantitative proficiency.

GRE vs GMAT for Online Programs

Which is the better choice, the GRE or the GMAT, for online programs? There’s no right or wrong answer because it depends on many factors.

First, there’s the growth of accredited online MBA and graduate programs. Online programs offer more flexibility and accessibility for interested individuals. Their admissions policies reflected these values, too, resulting in the acceptance of both GRE and GMAT scores.

Then, there’s the flexibility of the GRE that makes it more suitable for online and dual-degree applicants. Again, the GRE is accepted in business and non-business programs. Said flexibility makes it best for dual-degree programs (e.g., MBA/MS or MBA/MPA).

Many online colleges also accept both the GRE and GMAT. Better yet, more online colleges waive test requirements entirely.

Which Test Matches Your Strengths?

First, consider your strengths. Do you have strong skills in verbal communication including vocabulary? Are your strengths in quantitative areas? Once you’ve identified your strengths, you can make an informed choice in the GRE vs. GMAT debate.

If you have strong quantitative and logic-based thinking skills, go for GMAT. You’ll likely have an easier time in its Quantitative and Data Insights sections.

If your strengths are in writing and vocabulary, choose the GRE. Your reading comprehension and analytical writing skills will be put to the test. You can also use a calculator in the math section, meaning more breathing room.

Then, consider your academic background and career goals. If you’re into business or engineering, go for GMAT. But if you’re into social science and humanities, the GRE is a better fit.

Cost, Test Availability, and Preparation Resources

The GRE vs GMAT for graduate school discussion also covers these factors.

Cost to take the test

The cost of taking the GRE is about $220, while it’s $275 for the GMAT (as of 2024). Be sure to factor in additional costs for services. These include sending your scores to many colleges and rescheduling your exam.

Test availability worldwide and scheduling options

Both the GRE and GMAT are available in almost every country. You can choose your test date and location, too, but it depends on availability. Both tests are also available in at-home formats but with an online proctor.

Prep resources available

You can also find a wide range of useful prep resources for both GRE and GMAT. Check out their official guides first. Then, supplement them with Kaplan and Magoosh prep guides.

Online courses through accredited colleges

Coursera, Udemy, and edX provide the best GRE and GMAT online prep courses.

When Should You Choose the GRE Over the GMAT?

• You’re applying to multiple grad programs (not just business school).
• You’re stronger in verbal reasoning.
• You’re applying to schools that don’t require GMAT.

When Should You Choose the GMAT Over the GRE?

• You’re applying to competitive MBA programs with a quant-heavy focus.
• You want to demonstrate commitment to a business career.
• You’re applying to programs that prefer or require the GMAT.

So, the best test for MBA admissions is still the GMAT.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GRE vs GMAT discussion isn’t as heated as it was before. Many prestigious graduate schools now accept both in their admissions criteria. Even top-tier MBA programs now accept GRE scores, where the GMAT scores were once the only scores accepted.

The main differences between the GRE and GMAT are their costs, scoring format, and emphasis areas. The GRE focuses more on vocabulary and verbal reasoning. The GMAT emphasizes quantitative reasoning and analytical problem-solving.

So, when choosing between the GRE and GMAT, consider your goals and strengths first. You must also perform your research about specific program requirements. If the programs you’re interested in accept both, choose the test that aligns with your goals and strengths.

In the end, your GRE or GMAT scores are only part of a whole. Your work experience, personality traits, and program fit also matter in your admission.

The post Should I Take the GRE or GMAT? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Online graduate degrees are attractive options increasingly offered by accredited colleges to support post-bachelor’s adults seeking professional advancement with less fuss. The SR Education Group has counted nearly 600 schools housing over 12,500 graduate programs online in wide-ranging fields. Studying on the World Wide Web from home lets you keep working full-time, resolve scheduling conflicts, attend universities afar, get personalized mentoring, and avoid campus overhead costs. Making graduate school more accessible is crucial since the Georgetown CEW predicts that 6 million jobs will require a master’s or higher by 2020. Graduate degrees also provide median lifetime earnings that are $1.5 million higher than high school diplomas according to the Social Security Administration. Let’s look at some great examples of where you can get a graduate degree from an accredited college online.

See Also: Top 30 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs

Adams State University

Adams State University, the West’s 184th best bang for the buck in Washington Monthly, is a public, Hispanic-serving liberal arts school founded in 1921 by Governor Billy Adams that’s educating 3,467 Grizzlies at its Colorado campus and on Blackboard. The Extended Studies Division offers 12 HLC-accredited graduate programs online, including the Master of Arts in Music Education, Master of Arts in Humanities with U.S. History Emphasis, Master of Business Administration, and Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision.

See Also: 9 Tips For Balancing Work, Life, and Academics: Navigating the Challenges of Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree

Canisius College

Canisius College, Forbes’ 246th top private university in America, is a private, Jesuit liberal arts AJCU member named for St. Peter Canisius in 1870 that’s carrying a $110.5 million endowment to serve 3,900 Golden Griffins both in Buffalo’s Hamlin Park and on Desire2Learn. The School of Graduate Studies grants 12 rigorous, MSCHE-accredited online programs, such as the Master of Science in Respiratory Care, Master of Science in Sport Product Management, Master of Science in Anthrozoology, and Master of Education in Literacy.

See Also: 10 Tips for Maximizing Your Learning Experience in Online College

Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology, the 99th best U.S. value in Money Magazine, is a private, STEM-centric research institution opened in 1890 that’s endowed for $235 million under president Alan Cramb to enroll 7,266 Scarlet Hawks online and on-site in Chicago’s Bronzeville district. The Office of Digital Learning confers 23 HLC-accredited programs like the Master of Science in Biology, Master of Food Process Engineering, Master of Chemistry in Analytical Chemistry, and Master of Intellectual Property Management on Blackboard.

Winthrop University

Winthrop University, America’s 43rd best standout college on Niche, is a public, coeducational civic-engaged Big South member that’s endowed for $42.8 million to employ 304 faculty who instruct 6,073 Eagles face-to-face at its Charlotte Metro campus or online. On Blackboard, the Graduate School delivers seven-week, SACS-accredited courses to complete four master’s offerings: the Master of Arts in Arts Administration, Master of Social Work, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Education in Special Education Intervention.

Accreditation is the first step to finding the right online graduate school fit and steering clear of diploma mills. Utilize the Council on Higher Education Accreditation directory to double check colleges’ claims of regional or national approval. Access databases like the NCES College Navigator or Peterson’s to locate online master’s and doctorates in chosen fields. Review online rankings from the U.S. News & World Report to learn which colleges are the best of the best. For each prospective school, evaluate curricular features like accelerated courses, internships, and capstone projects. Remember that financial aid, student-faculty ratio, job placement, salary potential, and admission selectivity are other important factors when looking to get a graduate degree from an accredited college online.

Related Links

The 30 Top Fastest Accredited Online Graduate Colleges

The post Where Can I Get My Graduate Degree From An Accredited College Online? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

See Also: 30 Easiest Online College Programs for Undergrads

What Makes Some Online Colleges “Easy”

Image Source

Easy can be a subjective descriptor because what’s simple for one might be hard for another. For instance, maybe you excel at writing papers for English but scientists find lab research easier. There are several characteristics that the easiest, accredited online colleges share though. They usually have open-enrollment policies for acceptance rates at or near 100 percent. Many have test-optional admission to avoid the painstaking ACT or SAT exam process. Quicker routes to degree completion are common. Easy online colleges often condense material into five to 10 weeks to concentrate on one course at a time. Most have liberal transfer rollovers to waive up to 90 credits on a 120-credit bachelor’s. The easiest, accredited online colleges also offer free tutoring, keep classes asynchronous, and reduce projects or practica.

The Quality of the Easiest Online Colleges

Image Source

Easy online colleges can deliver good education since none of the above adjustments affect their quality. Tweaking the mode of instruction simply makes learning more convenient; you’ll still need to put the work in. Your education won’t be Ivy League, but it still can be valuable and fast. The easiest, accredited online colleges that have nonprofit status are generally the best. That’s because some might be biased against for-profit, online-only institutions like DeVry, Webster, Ashford, and Walden that have faced lawsuits. The NCES College Navigator found that 5.75 million students take online courses now, so employers will usually recognize them. Online schools with brick-and-mortar campuses frequently omit the word “online” from diplomas anyway. The easiest, accredited online colleges aren’t gimmicks because they really offer an opportunity to sharpen vocational knowledge with plus time management, collaboration, computer, and thinking skills.

How to Find Good Online Colleges That are Easy

Image Source

Research from the U.S. Department of Education in 2009 found that online classes produce stronger student learning outcomes than face-to-face ones. However, that’s only if you carefully shop for institutions that don’t throw up red flags for diploma mill practices. Employers Choice reports that over 370 fake schools still award 200,000 unemployable degrees yearly. Your first safeguard against becoming prey is accreditation. The easiest, accredited online colleges can be validated for quality by six regional agencies: the NEASC, MSCHE, SACS, HLC, NWCCU, and WASC. Others might have national accreditation from bodies like the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), but they’re not as widely accepted. The U.S. News & World Report online rankings are an excellent place to find good education. The Open Education Database and Better Business Bureau can also let you know how online schools fare.

Great Examples of the Easiest Online Colleges

Image Source

The Guide to Online Schools currently lists 555 non-profit colleges that range in level of difficulty, but easy options abound. Let’s dive deeper into a few U.S. examples available from literally anywhere. Oakwood University is a test-optional, SACS-accredited school offering 18-month completion for the B.S. in General Studies and B.S. in Church Leadership. Lewis-Clark State College is publicly funded to deliver easy, eight-week Blackboard courses for the RN to BSN and Early Childhood Development B.A.S. Patten University starts WASC-accredited online courses every Monday for debt-free degrees like the B.A. in Law Enforcement and B.A. in Entrepreneurship. Midway University in Kentucky easily connects to eight-week, Moodle courses for the BA Interdisciplinary Studies and BA Psychology. Wayland Baptist University also has 100 percent admission into SACS-accredited, 11-week online modules for the Bachelor of Applied Science and Bachelor of Business.

Don’t ever expect earning a degree to be a walk in the park. Online schools offering the chance to buy diplomas with little time spent on actual courses can’t be trusted. Fortunately, the easiest, accredited online colleges are checked regularly by third-party agencies to students get the good education they deserve. Other outstanding online institutions, such as Wayne State College, Charter Oak State College, Concordia University, Becker College, Limestone College, Post University, and Eastern Kentucky University, also simplify learning with non-competitive admission, test waivers, easy majors, and shorter spans.

The post Do The Easiest, Accredited Online Colleges Provide A Good Education? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

It’s for these reasons that employers look favorably on past military experience. But to truly set yourself up for the best possible salary expectations and career growth in the future, you should consider pursuing a course of higher education. Of course, you may have already given consideration to further study, but perhaps you’re worrying about the costs of a college education. What you may not know is that there are numerous non-repayable scholarships available to people specifically in your position. 

See Also: Cheap Accredited Online College

Scholarships for Veterans and Active-Duty Military

Scholarships are financial awards that do not need to be repaid, making them the ideal way to fund your education without the worry that you’re accruing more student debt. They can come from a range of sources, including private companies, government organizations, public figures, and many of the colleges and universities across the United States. But unless you complete a FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, many of these schemes won’t consider you for the award. Others require you to submit a separate application or write a personal essay. 

Competition for scholarship funding can, understandably, be quite fierce among students across the country. However, there are many scholarships available that are designed specifically for active-duty military and honorably discharged veterans. Applying for these schemes means you could be up against significantly fewer applicants. Below, we’ll look at a range of these types of scholarships. We’ve also included a range of scholarships designed for the spouses or children of service members, as we appreciate that several generations of the same family often serve their country, and so these scholarships may be relevant to you. 

See Also: The Ex-Military Student’s Guide to College

1. AFCEA Military Personnel Scholarships

Award: $2,500

AFCEA Military Personnel Scholarships

4400 Fair Lakes Ct.

Fairfax, VA 22033

(800) 336-4583

edfoundation@afcea.org

AFCEA stands for “The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association.” It’s an education foundation that awards yearly merit-based scholarships to serving members of the military, both men and women. You’re also eligible if you have been honorably discharged from the military, providing you’re enrolled in an accredited degree program. The program must be related to technology, computer science, or engineering. Whether you’re active-duty or a veteran, you’ll also need to be a U.S. citizen who has achieved a minimum of sophomore status in a four-year undergraduate program. You’ll also need a minimum GPA of 3.0. 

There’s more than one type of AFCEA scholarship available, but you’re only allowed to apply to one when you submit your application. You should read through the eligibility criteria that apply to each type of scholarship, too; each award has other conditions that must be met. For example, for the AFCEA War Veterans Scholarship, you must have been deployed on one of the following Overseas Contingency Operations while on active duty:

• Operation Enduring Freedom 
• Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Operation New Dawn
• Operation Inherent Resolve
• Operation Freedom’s Sentinel

See Also: The Best Online Schools for Military and Ex-Military Students

2. AMVETS Scholarships

Award: Up to $12,000

AMVETS Scholarships 

4647 Forbes Blvd. 

Lanham, MD 20706 

(301) 683-4031 

thilton@amvets.org

American Veterans, or AMVETS, provides scholarships for both active-duty military and veterans who have been honorably discharged. To be eligible, you’ll need to hold a high school diploma or its equivalent (i.e. a GED) and be a U.S. citizen. You must also provide proof of your status as an active-duty service member or veteran. Additionally, you cannot be in default on any prior loans from the federal government. The application process opens in January and closes at the end of April, with six different scholarship programs available: 

• Veterans, Active Duty, Guard, and Reserves Scholarship – For any military-affiliated students that fall into one of these four categories, there are three scholarships of $4,000 available, with a payment of $1,000 made each year of study on a four-year program.

• Spouse Scholarship – This scholarship awards a single payment of up to $4,000 to the spouse of a military-affiliated person. Again, the payment is split into four $1,000 payments across a four-year course of study.

• Children/Grandchildren – High School Seniors Scholarship – Six scholarships of $4,000 are reserved for children or grandchildren of military-affiliated persons, with a $1,000 payment made each academic year. 

• JROTC High School Senior Scholarship – This scholarship is reserved for a single JROTC Senior Cadet each year. The award of $1,000 must be used within five years of being paid.

• The Dr. Aurelio M. Caccomo Family Foundation Memorial Scholarship – This scholarship program awards two scholarships of $12,000, with $3,000 awarded per year to each student.

• The Donald Montana Distinguished Military Veteran Memorial Scholarship – One scholarship of $4,000 is awarded, with a $1,000 payment made for each year of study.

3. Ankin Law Office Scholarship

Award: $1,000

Ankin Law Office LLC 

10 N. Dearborn St., Suite 500 

Chicago, IL 60602

U.S. law firm Ankin Chicago set up this scholarship in support of veterans looking to transition to a civilian career. It pays $1,000 towards the cost of tuition or study supplies and requires you to write a personal statement as part of your application. The scholarship program is open to applicants who are U.S. military veterans, in addition to their immediate family members, who will be enrolled full-time in the subsequent fall. You qualify if you are looking to study at an accredited community college or university, at the graduate or undergraduate level, or are starting a vocational program. 

4. Army Staff Sgt. Special Agent Richard S. Eaton Jr. Scholarship

Award: $1,000

Army Staff Sgt. Special Agent Richard S. Eaton Jr. Scholarship 

4803 Atlas Cedar Way 

Aberdeen, MD 21001 

scholarship@lintcenter.org

This scholarship fund was created in memory of U.S. Staff Sgt. Special Agent Richard S. Eaton Jr. The $1,000 award is for active-duty military or veterans who wish to study in the fields of counterintelligence, national security, or alliance building. As part of your application, you’ll need to write a 600-word essay and submit it with a personal statement, resume, and photograph. There are two application deadlines of January 31 and July 31. 

5. AWFDN Legacy Scholarship Program (For Women Only)

Award: $1,000 – $2,500

Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship 

P.O. Box 5030 

Fort Lee, VA 23801 

(804) 734-3078 

info@awfdn.org

Women haven’t always been allowed to serve in the military on active duty, but they’ve achieved some incredible things. The Army Women’s Foundation Legacy Scholarship program awards up to $2,500 funding to support women who want to study at the undergraduate or graduate level. Whether you’re on active duty or an honorably discharged veteran, you can apply, provided you’re studying at an accredited U.S. institution and have achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher. You’ll have to submit a personal essay, resume, transcripts, and recommendations with your application, as well as evidence of your service. Applications close January 15. 

6. FRA Education Foundation Scholarships

Award: $5,000

125 N. West St. 

Alexandria, VA 22314

(703) 683-1400 

fra@fra.org

The FRA, or Fleet Reserve Association, runs a scholarship program that pays up to $5,000 to successful applicants who want to study at the graduate or undergraduate level. The program is open to veterans who have been honorably discharged, and more than one award is paid each year; in fact, approximately $100,000 in payments are made per academic year. This is a needs-assessed scholarship that also looks at academic success in determining who should be awarded the funding. More than one scholarship is offered by this organization, so to find the one relevant to you, you can look at the FRA’s full list. 

7. Troops to Teachers

Award: Up to $10,000

Troops to Teachers Program 

6490 Saufley Field Rd. 

Pensacola, FL 32509 

(850) 452-1194 

ttt@navy.mil

This is a scholarship program that’s funded directly by the U.S. government, specifically the Department of Defense. The program aims to boost the quality of education offered in the United States by encouraging those with extensive military experience to transition into teaching. Any active-duty military or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible to apply, though you’ll need to submit evidence of your service. You will also ideally need to have a background in teaching and education, plus you should be prepared to submit a personal statement. The application deadline is April 15. 

8. VFW Scholarship

Award: Up to $5,000

VFW National Headquarters

406 W. 34th St.

Kansas City, MO 64111 

(816) 756-3390

This scholarship was set up and provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars association. The scholarship program, Sport Clips Help a Hero Scholarship, pays up to $5,000 to successful applicants, with payments being made directly to your chosen institution to help cover the cost of tuition fees. Eligibility requires that you be a U.S. citizen who has been honorably discharged from the military – this isn’t a scholarship for active-duty military service members. It’s also a needs-assessed scholarship, meaning those in the greatest financial need have the best chance of being successful in their application. 

9. Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund

Award: $2,000

Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund 

328 Office Square Ln., Suite 101A 

Virginia Beach, VA 23462

cposfboard@cposf.org

Each year, this scholarship fund awards up to 60 scholarships valued at $2,000 each. The aim of the fund is to improve access to higher education not only for service members but also for their family members. With an application deadline of April 1, eligible applicants should have graduated from an accredited high school or be about to graduate; intend on entering a community college, vocational college, or university to study at the undergraduate level; and be an immediate family member of an active-duty, reserve, retired, or deceased Chief Petty Officer of the U.S. Navy. 

10. Dolphin Scholarship Fund

Award: $3,400

4966 Euclid Rd., Suite 109 

Virginia Beach, VA 23462

info@dolphinscholarship.org

The Dolphin Scholarship Fund awards up to 115 yearly scholarships with a value of $3,400 to stepchildren or children who are dependent on an active-duty member of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force. These dependents must be under the age of 24 and unmarried. In addition, the relevant member of the Submarine Force must have served at least eight years in order for their dependent(s) to qualify. Final selection from the pool of applicants is based on academic merit and financial need, as well as participation in extracurricular programs. Applications must be received no later than February 28. 

11. Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund

Award: Up to $25,000

Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund 

22570 Markey Ct., Suite 240 

Dulles, VA 20166 

(703) 444-7940 

info@fascholarship.com

Among the largest scholarships available, the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund supports students who are the dependent children of an active-duty man or woman killed or disabled while serving their country. To be eligible, you must be a high school senior or graduate and enrolled (or accepted into) any accredited U.S. higher education institution. The fund is driven by public donations and has been able to award more than $14 million since its establishment. Applications must be submitted by June 30. 

12. General George S. Brown Spouse Tuition Assistance Program

Award: Up to $5,000

General George S. Brown Spouse Tuition Assistance Program 

241 18th St., Suite 202 

Arlington, VA 22202 

(703) 972-2650 

afas@afas-hq.or

This scholarship is offered by the Air Force Aid Society and awards up to $5,000 to spouses of active-duty U.S. Air Force members. Specifically, the award provides tuition assistance based on a rate of 50% of unpaid tuition per course; the maximum is $1,500 per academic year. Eligibility requires the serviceman or woman to be serving overseas, and applicants must be married to this person, in addition to being a high school graduate, and enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program. You’ll also need a minimum GPA of 2.0. 

13. Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver Scholarships

Award: $1,500 – $2,500

Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver Scholarships

5101 Backlick Rd.

Annandale, VA 22003

(877) 246-7349

scholarships@hopeforthewarriors.org

This annual scholarship is offered to military spouses and caregivers in financial need who wish to study at an accredited higher education institution in the U.S. Alongside your application, you’ll be asked to submit a certification form, evidence of the injury or death inflicted upon your spouse, and a personal essay that highlights your academic achievement and personal aspirations. In total, the fund offers five different scholarships to various types of students: the Honorary Scholarship, New Beginnings Scholarship, Restoring Family Scholarship, Restoring Hope Scholarship, and the Restoring Self Scholarship. For information on each scholarship, you can visit the Hope for the Warriors website. 

14. Huebner Scholarships

Award: $10,000

1st Infantry Division Foundation 

P.O. Box 607 

Ambler, PA 19002

sfidkansas@gmail.com

The Huebner Scholarships are generous financial awards of $10,000, which are paid out in four installments for four-year courses, with $2,500 payments made at the beginning of each academic year. The scholarships were named after Lieutenant General Clarence L. Huebner, who was a 1st Infantry Division commander in World War II. Applications are welcomed from grandchildren or children of soldiers who have served as part of this division in the U.S. Army. Applications are due by February 1 and should be accompanied by a 200-word personal essay, transcripts, your college acceptance proof, and evidence of military service. You’ll also need two letters of recommendation. 

15. Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

Award: $30,000

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

909 North Washington St., Suite 400

Alexandria, VA 22314

(703) 549-0060

mcsfnj@mcsf.org

As one of the highest value scholarships we’ve found, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation awards are made available to children of active-duty, reserve, or veteran U.S. Marines. Founded in 1962, the foundation is the United States’ oldest and biggest provider of need-based scholarships to military dependents. As an applicant, your minimum cumulative GPA must be at least 2.0. You will also be means-assessed as part of the application process, and your family’s gross income cannot be higher than $93,000 for the year in which you apply. 

16. Military Officers Association of America Scholarship Fund

Award: Varies

Military Officers Association of America Scholarship Fund

201 North Washington St.

Alexandria, VA 22314

(800) 234-6622

edassist@moaa.org

The Military Officers Association of America, or MOAA, was established in 1948 and grants varying scholarships to students who are the dependents of active-duty, former, or retired warrant officers. To obtain full funding for up to five years of college or university study, you must be enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution, be 24 years old or younger, and have a good military track record. 

17. Ladies Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve Association Scholarships

Award: $5,000

Ladies Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve Association Scholarships

2712 Holly Ridge Rd.

Orange Park, FL 32073

(904) 269-2136

scholars@fra.org

Every year, this association – shortened to LA FRA – awards $5,000 scholarships to both male and female students who wish to study at the undergraduate or graduate level. To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants should be the direct children or grandchildren or a military member belonging to the FRA or LA FRA. There are a couple of additional scholarships awarded by the same organization, which can be viewed on the association’s website. 

18. Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships

Award: Up to $5,000

Joanne Holbrook Patton Military Spouse Scholarships

2500 North Van Dorn St., Suite 102

Alexandria, VA 22302

(703) 931-6632

scholarships@militaryfamily.org

This scholarship is funded by the National Military Family Association and offers up to $5,000 in tuition support to any spouse of an active-duty, reserve or guard, or retired service member. The funding can be used for undergraduate or graduate degrees or toward the costs of vocational training. To apply, you’ll need to submit a copy of your marriage certificate and a military verification document. Applications must be made by February 3. 

19. Imagine America’s Military Award Program

Award: $1,000

14200 Park Meadow Dr., Suite 117s

Chantilly, VA 20151

studentservices@imagine-america.org

Made possible by Imagine America’s Military Award Program, this fund offers $1,000 scholarships to active-duty military service members as well as veterans who have been honorably discharged or have retired. To be eligible, you’ll need to be enrolling at a participating U.S. college or university, in addition to having strong academic performance and financial need. You can check out the scholarship fund’s website for more information on participating institutions. 

20. Fisher House Foundation Scholarships

Award: $2,000

12300 Twinbrook Pkwy, Suite 410 

Rockville, MD 20852 

(888) 294-8560 

JWeiskopf@fisherhouse.org

The Fisher House Foundation Scholarships are $2,000 awards given to unmarried children of active-duty, reserve, or retired military commissary customers. To be eligible beyond this requirement, you (or your children) must be enrolled full-time in a four-year undergraduate program. You cannot be older than 23 years of age and must have a GPA of 3.0 or above. 

21. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Education Grants

Award: Up to $3,000

Military Spouse FINRA Fellowship Program

1940 Duke St., Suite 200

Alexandria, VA 22314

(703) 684-4484

militaryspouse@afcpe.org

These scholarships are made possible by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, or FINRA, and cover the costs associated with paying certification fees. FINRA also provides a stipend each month to spouses of military personnel who want to take part in a training program to become an Accredited Financial Counselor. Deadlines can vary, and you should contact the organization for more information or help with the application process. 

22. Paralyzed Veterans of America Scholarships

Award: $3,000

Paralyzed Veterans of America Scholarships

801 Eighteenth St. NW

Washington, DC 20006

(800) 424-8200

info@pva.org

This scholarship fund was established to offer some financial support to wounded military servicemen and women and their families. Up to $3,000 can be awarded to paralyzed veterans or their spouses; related unmarried children under the age of 24 years old may also apply. As an applicant, you need to be a U.S. citizen, accepted into or currently enrolled in a full- or part-time program, and have a strong academic track record. Applications should be made no later than December 31. 

23. Pat Tillman Scholarships

Award: Varies

Pat Tillman Scholarships

217 North Jefferson St., Suite 602

Chicago, IL 60661

(773) 360-5277

scholarships@pattillmanfoundation.org

This foundation was created in honor of a man named Pat Tillman who sidelined his incredible NFL career to serve his country after the events of 9/11. The fund was established after Pat lost his life in the service. Each year, the Pat Tillman Scholarships are awarded to active service members belonging to any branch of the U.S. military. The funding can be used toward graduate or undergraduate study, or toward a doctoral degree. You’ll need a minimum GPA of 3.0 to apply, as well as evidence of your service. 

24. Veteran Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program

Award: Varies

Veteran Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program

810 Vermont Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20420

(877) 222-8387

The Yellow Ribbon Program is a program in which many colleges and universities across the United States participate. It’s a part of the Post 9/11 GI Bill and is designed to reduce out-of-state tuition fees for service members and veterans. To be eligible for aid, you need to have served a minimum of 36 months in active duty following the events of 9/11, but as long as you qualify, you’ll have the tuition costs of public schools covered and those of private schools reduced. 

25. Wings Over America Foundation Scholarships

Award: Up to $5,000

Wings Over America Foundation Scholarships

4966 Euclid Rd., Suite 109

Virginia Beach, VA 23462

(757) 671-3200 ext. 117

scholarship@wingsoveramerica.us

Each year, the Wings Over America Foundation awards scholarships of up to $5,000 to spouses and dependents of any U.S. Navy servicemen or women who are on active duty, retired, or deceased. To be eligible, you must be the biological son or daughter, or married spouse, of such a person. You’ll also be assessed for financial need, and your academic performance will be taken into consideration. Participation in community service events could help improve your chances of being selected, too. 

Study Benefits for Military and Ex-Military Students

Scholarships are invaluable, but there are other types of funding available to you as someone who has spent time in the U.S. military. The U.S. government spends billions of dollars each year on supporting students who want to pursue a college education. Student loans, grants, and federal work-study programs are part of this funding, but there are also other lesser-known benefits that you could be eligible for. The most comprehensive program of benefits for you is the GI Bill, which is available to large swathes of military members and veterans. 

The GI Bill was established at the end of the Second World War in 1944, with thousands of graduates having benefited from the program in the many years since. This bill is actually an umbrella term that covers a wide range of benefits with different eligibility requirements and financial awards. Any educational benefit offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs is classed as a GI Bill benefit, so we’ll look at exactly what benefits are available in more detail below. 

Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)

The name is a bit of a mouthful, but this is the most up-to-date term for the educational bill. As the name suggests, one of the requirements of the bill is that you’ve served in the military at some point since September 11, 2001. You’ll be able to get benefits under this bill if you meet at least one of the below requirements: 

• Served at least 90 days on active duty (either all at once or with breaks in service) on or after September 11, 2001

• Received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged after any amount of service

• Served for at least 30 continuous days (all at once, without a break in service) on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged with a service-connected disability

• Are a dependent child using benefits transferred by a qualifying veteran or service member

As is often the case with funding provided by the federal government, there’s a lot of fine print to understand. One of the most important parts of this is how the benefit is broken down into different types of payments, as well as the amount that you’re likely to get if you’re accepted by the scholarship program. We’ve broken it down for you below. 

Monthly Living Stipend

The monthly living stipend is a monthly allowance for your accommodation costs. The amount that’s actually paid out is based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for an E-5 with dependents. What’s important to remember is that you will be paid an amount that’s based on the ZIP code of your chosen institution, not your home’s ZIP code. 

Book and Supply Stipend

The books and supplies stipend is designed to help cover the cost of textbooks, stationery, and more. You could receive up to $1,000 at the start of each college semester, but the amount you’ll actually receive is scaled against the number of credit hours that you’re taking. You’ll receive $41 per credit hour, with up to a maximum of $1,000 regardless of credit hours.  

Relocation Allowance

If you’re an out-of-state student who has applied to an institution far from your home address and state, then you may be eligible to receive a one-time relocation allowance payment. The amount available is up to $500, but to be eligible you will have to meet the following requirements: 

• You are living in a U.S. county that has no more than six citizens per square mile (according to recent U.S. census data), and: 

• You intend on relocating a minimum of 500 miles to live on-campus at your chosen higher education institution, or: 

• You are planning on traveling by air to attend your chosen educational institution where there are no land-based alternative modes of transport available to you 

Benefit Tiering 

In planning your finances for your impending course of study, this is one of the most important parts of the GI Bill to understand. The payments work on a tiering system, with applicants receiving varied amounts depending on their length of service in the U.S. military. Based on your time spent in service, you’ll receive a percentage, from 40-100%, of the total award available. Here’s how this breaks down: 

• A minimum of 36 months spent in service: 100%
• A minimum of 30 days but discharged due to disability caused by service: 100%
• Between 30-36 months: 90%
• Between 24-30 months: 80%
• Between 18-24 months: 70%
• Between 12-18 months: 60%
• Between 6-12 months: 50%
• Between 90 days and six months: 40%

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty

Over $73,000 in financial awards and other programs are available to military members under the Montgomery GI Bill, which bases payments on “the current maximum monthly payment rate of $2,050 multiplied by the 36-month limit.” Thus, with this bill, you could receive funding for up to eight semesters, or four years of education at a higher education institution. The list of requirements is quite comprehensive, so it’s worth checking them out on the bill’s website, but as a rough guide, to be eligible for this bill, you will need to meet the below criteria: 

• You’ve contributed a minimum of $100 in your first year of service on active duty 

• You are a high school graduate or, alternatively, you have a high-school-equivalent qualification, such as the GED at time of application

• You’ve spent a minimum of two years in active service in the military 

• You were discharged from the U.S. military with an honorable discharge 

Vocational Rehabilitation and Education Program

Vocational Rehabilitation and Education services are available to you as an ex-military veteran and can help you fund a wide variety of vocational or training opportunities. You might receive funding to help undergo job training or resume development, or you might be supported in starting an apprenticeship, voluntary work, or even a post-secondary training course based at a college. In some cases, as a participant of this program, you might be eligible to receive a subsistence allowance during your time in a training or educational program. 

The allowance is paid on a monthly basis like a salary and is based on your rate of attendance in your chosen program, whether that be full-time, part-time, or otherwise.

Federal Student Aid

Earlier, we mentioned the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which all students should complete for every year that they are enrolled in a program of higher education. Not renewing your application in subsequent years of study could result in you losing your existing grants or loans, so it’s essential you do this every year. The application can be accessed online and follows the same process for all students, whether military-affiliated or otherwise. Once your application has been assessed, you might be informed that you’re eligible for loans, grants, or scholarships specifically offered by the federal government. 

Grants, like scholarships, generally do not have to be repaid. Your FAFSA application could deem you eligible for grants from the federal government, the state government for the state in which you reside, or even your chosen college or university. However, some grants you’ll have to hunt down and apply for yourself. Grants offered directly by the government include Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grants (TEACH). You can find out more about each type of grant by following the embedded links above. 

Student loans are another source of funding that most students will need to support their college education. Like any loan, your student loans from the federal government will accrue interest, and they will have to be paid back after graduation. However, interest doesn’t begin to accrue until after you’ve finished your studies. Not all loans come directly from the government; some are offered by banks or other financial institutions, so it’s important you know who is lending the money and all of the attached terms like interest rates. 

Another type of funding for students is called Federal Work-Study. If you’re still on active duty, this is unlikely to be suitable for you, as it involves working in a community service or campus role to earn a salary as you study. But if you’re in full-time education as a veteran, you could gain valuable civilian workforce skills and supplement your funding. 

Finally, though we’ve covered many of the most well-known military scholarships already, there’s some additional information on the Federal Student Aid website regarding financial aid for military families. One of the most relevant parts of this page is the information on “limited interest rates, no accrual of interest, and deferment of student loans;” these are special circumstances designed specifically for military-affiliated students, which could do exactly what they say: limit the interest you pay on student loans, halt the interest, or defer the date on which you must start repaying your student loans. 

The post Scholarships for Military and Ex-Military Students appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Online associate degrees are two-year, lower-division undergrad programs that use internet classrooms to prepare for the workforce or launch bachelor’s transfers. Earning an associate online is an attractive option for high school grads or GED recipients. First, Rasmussen University found an associate degree makes you eligible for 134 percent more postings or over 6.3 million jobs. Associate curricula is packed with more career-oriented and less liberal arts courses. Reaching graduation takes just 24 months instead of 48, or even less if accelerated online, to reduce your likelihood of study disruptions. Getting an online associate boosts median pay from $25,636 to $41,496 according to SmartAsset. But most importantly, online associate tuition is considerably lower to avoid racking up big debt. The majority bill less than the average cost per credit of $594 on Student Loan Hero. In this article, we’ll list some of the most affordable online, accredited associate degree programs that maximize your investment.

See Also: Top 30 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs

Washtenaw Community College

Ranked in Community College Week’s top 50 for tech services, Washtenaw Community College is a public, HLC-accredited junior institution and Pacemaker Award winner in Ann Arbor that’s grown since 1965 to admit 13,000 Wolves with 100 percent acceptance. On Blackboard Learn, undergrads access cheap, asynchronous courses costing just $115 per credit for 18 associate degrees. Consider earning Washtenaw’s Construction Supervision AAS, Retail Management AAS, Industrial Training AS, Liberal Arts Transfer AA, or Business AA entirely online.

See Also: 10 Accredited Online Colleges for Diagnostic Medical Sonography

McHenry County College

Founded in April 1967, McHenry County College is a two-year, coed “Military Friendly” state school and the SR Education Group’s sixth cheapest choice that expands beyond Crystal Lake, Illinois, to serve nearly 60,000 people across 93 programs. Online students spend only $107 per credit on Nelnet payment plans to access nine flexible associate degrees via Canvas. Great options include McHenry’s Accounting AAS, Criminal Justice AAS, Computer Network Security AAS, Administrative Office Management AAS, and Associate in General Education.

Shoreline Community College

Enrolling over 10,000 Dolphins from 50+ nations, Shoreline Community College is a public, coed NWCCU-accredited junior school with a 26-building King County campus outside Seattle that’s won the 2011 Bellwether Award and 2017 Toyota T-Ten Award. Ranked #1 in Washington, the Virtual Campus delivers 15 online associate options reasonably billing $117 per credit on Blackboard Collaborate. Perhaps pursue Shoreline’s History AA, Psychology AA, Health Information Technology AAS, English Literature AA, or Supply Chain Management AAS at a distance.

See Also: 30 Cheapest Online Associate’s Degree

Cochise College

Given the 2017 EBSCO Learning Resources Leadership Award, Cochise College is a public, Hispanic-serving undergrad institution in Sierra Vista, Arizona, that’s ranked 121st nationally by Niche for effectively teaching 8,000 Apaches with HLC accreditation. Celebrating its 20th year, the Virtual Campus specifically attracts 2,500 to Moodle for 12 online associate degrees priced at $133 per credit. Check out Cochise’s cheap AA Philosophy, AAS Programming, AA Economics, AA Social & Behavioral Sciences, or AAS Intelligence Operations Studies degree.

See Also: Top 30 Accredited Emergency Management Degree Online Options

Northeast Community College

Awarding $12.12 million in annual aid, Northeast Community College is a public, HLC-approved junior system and 2017 Aspen Prize finalist based in Norfolk, Nebraska, that’s ranked 130th countrywide on Niche by training 13,512 Hawks for 98 percent job placement. On Canvas, students are charged $134 per credit for 16 affordable online associate programs accessed anywhere. The excellent choices include Northeast’s Agriculture AA, Law Enforcement AA, Early Childhood Education AA, General Studies AA, and Administrative Professional AAS.

Dakota College at Bottineau

Budgeting $3.78 million, Dakota College at Bottineau is the public, two-year NDUS polytechnic affiliate of Minot State University, America’s 24th top online school on Niche, that’s HLC-accredited in the Turtle Mountains to grant 25,526 total credits yearly. The Blackboard classroom has 45 percent student retention in 100+ courses and 17 fully online degrees charging just $150 per credit. Look into Dakota’s Child Development AAS, Liberal Arts AA, Urban Forest Management AS, Advertising & Marketing AAS, Recreation Management AAS, and more.

Big Sandy Community & Technical College

Bestowed the 2017 NACCE EntreEd Grant, Big Sandy Community & Technical College is Kentucky’s sixth best public, two-year learning hub on Niche that’s led by Dr. Anthony Newberry in Prestonsburg to support 4,715 for-credit Owls. Undergrads picking from 22 SACS-accredited associate degrees in the Online Division presently pay $169 per credit with funds like the Berlie & Jane Salmons Scholarship. Cheap tracks include Big Sandy’s AAS Energy Management, AAS Paralegal, AAS Mining Technology, AAS Marine Logistics Operations, and AAS Human Services.

The lucky seven schools featured above just scratch the surface of cheap undergrad learning available 100 percent on the World Wide Web. Other high-quality yet affordable online associate degree programs are found at Atlanta Technical College, Great Basin College, Fox Valley Technical College, Clovis Community College, Perimeter College, Illinois Central College, Foothill College, and Fayetteville Technical College for under $200 per credit too.

Related Link

The Most Affordable Accredited Online Associate Degree Programs

The post What Are The Most Affordable, Accredited Online Associate Degree Programs? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Tuition dollars are increasingly a determining factor in where college students study. The U.S. News reports that tuition has risen by 179 percent at private and 296 percent at public, in-state institutions since 1995. Time Magazine shows that the published sticker prices reached all-time highs of $24,610 at public and $45,370 at private colleges in 2016. Since shrinking financial budgets don’t mix well with schools’ mushrooming costs of attendance, students are looking to cut expenses by learning online. Ranked online bachelor’s programs have a mean price of $286 per credit. Virtual college courses can also cost much less by slashing campus fees, housing, meal plans, parking, and transportation. Some learners may worry that the cheapest accredited online colleges won’t provide a good education, so let’s relieve this fear.

See Also: Top Easiest Master Degree Online Programs

How Cheap Online Colleges Compare

Cheap online colleges certainly won’t have the prestige of Ivy League schools like Dartmouth, but they can still deliver great degrees if they’re regionally accredited. Regional accreditation from one of six CHEA-recognized agencies certifies that the online school meets the quality standards stipulated by the U.S. Department of Education. However, nationally accredited online colleges are less desirable because they often won’t qualify for federal financial aid, credit transfer, or certification exams. For-profit online colleges also receive a bad reputation for putting investors before students and hiring less experienced instructors to execute predetermined lesson plans. According to the NCES, for-profit schools have a low graduation rate of 23 percent. Regionally accredited online colleges operating on a nonprofit model generally provide the best education cheap.

See Also: Top Easiest Master Degree Online Programs

Examples of Accredited, Affordable Online Schools

We don’t believe in sacrificing quality for affordability, so let’s review some of the cheapest accredited online colleges providing good education for cost-conscious learners. Each of the following tuition rates was recorded based on 2016-17 averages from the NCES database. Our favorite online schools where well-respected degrees cost less dough are:

• Brigham Young University-Idaho – Opened in Rexburg by the LDS Church in 1888, Brigham Young University-Idaho is ranked the West’s 13th best college by the U.S. News and America’s 34th best online college on Niche. For $3,920 yearly, online BYU students could pursue 19 degrees, including the B.S. Software Engineering, A.A.S. Family History Research, and B.S. Healthcare Administration.

• Alcorn State University – Enrolling 3,720 as a public, land-grant HBCU in Mississippi’s Claiborne County, Alcorn State University is ranked the South’s 95th best college by the U.S. News with America’s 200th best professors on Niche. For $5,269 annually, Alcorn students choose from good online degrees from the M.S. Workforce Education Leadership to the Master of Business Administration.

• West Texas A&M University – Located in the Amarillo Metro since 1910 with a $138 million budget to educate 9,901, West Texas A&M University is ranked the West’s 81st best school by the U.S. News and America’s 232nd top public university on Niche. For $7,699 per year, online WTAMU students pursue 13 fully online degrees like the RN-BSN and Criminal Justice B.S.

See Also: Cheapest Online Business Degree Programs for Undergrads

Financial Aid for Cheaper Online Study

America’s cheapest, accredited online colleges can become even more inexpensive when you pursue financial aid. Before the FAFSA deadline of June 30th, apply for federal funds like the Pell Grant, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant, or William D. Ford Direct Loan. Search your state’s education department for programs, such as the Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant and Georgia HOPE Scholarship. Some online schools, including SUNY Empire State College, let students receive Federal Work-Study jobs off-campus. Plus, here are a few scholarships reserved for students studying online.

• SR Education Group Scholarship for Women – Worth $5,000, the SR Education Group Scholarship for Women is granted annually to female undergrads and post-grads who are attending nonprofit online colleges for a degree or certificate. Online applications must be submitted by September 30th with 500-word essays to two open-ended prompts.

• Jane Ireland Student Fund Scholarship – Ranked #1 by the USNWR, the Penn State World Campus created the Jane Ireland Student Fund Scholarship to support online undergrads who’ve completed 24+ credits of their bachelor’s or associate degree. Those with an overall GPA above 3.2 and unmet financial need can apply until September 22nd.

• GetEducated.com Online College Scholarship – Called the “Diploma Mill Police,” GetEducated.com offers the $1,000 Online College Scholarship twice yearly to enrich financial aid for students at distance schools in the USA. Before October 15th or March 15th, applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA can submit their 500-word goals essay and FAFSA form.

Shopping Checklist for Good Online Colleges

High prices don’t guarantee high quality, while cheap tuition won’t mean cheap quality. Begin your online college search by eliminating unaccredited diploma mills that don’t have legitimate approval from regional agencies. Narrow down online schools offering your chosen major with ample technical and advising support. Inquire about financial aid packages that will lower published tuition rates. Scrutinize online student reviews for insider’s information about their experience. Consider online degree rankings to ascertain which schools are the best of the best. Ask important admission questions about the program length, college history, graduate employment, credit transfer, and course platform. Putting in research time will boost your chance of getting great online education cheap.

Related Links

The Top 15 Accredited Online Colleges Without An Application Fee

The post Do the Cheapest Accredited Online Colleges Provide a Good Education? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Luckily, accreditation is a shining, trusted beacon pointing students toward valuable education. Getting accredited is a voluntary, third-party process where colleges agree to rigorous testing of their instructional practices.

Accreditation is an ongoing review that requires continual improvement to address areas of weakness. Attending an accredited school is crucial to ensure your degree is legitimate, meets set standards, and has employer recognition. In this article, we’ll narrow in on national accreditation to examine its worth and current changes.

See Also: Accredited Pharmacy Schools Online

National Accreditation vs. Regional and Programmatic

National accreditation is an institutional-level stamp of approval from U.S. agencies that aren’t restricted by geographic limits. Unlike regional accreditation, it’s not based on campus location because many of the colleges have multiple sites. All nationally accredited schools are privately owned on for-profit or nonprofit models. Some deliver traditional academics, but many focus on occupational, religious, online, or technical education. National accreditation is all-inclusive to span a member’s entire teaching spectrum. That’s different from programmatic accreditation that only applies directly to discipline-specific degrees. Obviously, the three accreditation types have inherent differences, but they use similar appraisal styles. National accreditors still formulate specific guidelines that must be executed during candidacy before full membership.

See Also: Accredited Online Colleges in Veterinary

Image Source

Examples of National Accrediting Organizations

While there are six regional accreditors, there are currently 11 agencies that award national accreditation. Each has met the academic quality standards of the U.S. Department of Education, Council on Higher Education Accreditation, or both. Therefore, these 11 are the most trusted for finding suitable degree-granting institutions. Please note that GetEducated.com has found over 40 fake accrediting organizations made up by diploma mills. Always check the authenticity of accreditation listed on colleges’ websites to avoid scams. So let’s introduce six of the most popular national accreditation providers that the CHEA and DoED currently approve of.

Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools- This is the second-biggest national accrediting organization reaffirmed by Secretary Betsy DeVos in 2016. Based in Washington, DC, the agency accredits 254 non-public institutions receiving $772 million combined for enrollment above 111,000 in degrees from the associate to master’s level. Chaired by Elizabeth Guinan, the ACICS enforces 10 major eligibility rules like two years of experience, financial stability, and legal compliance. Examples of ACICS-accredited schools are:

• Stratford University: Alexandria, VA

• Metro Business College: Cape Girardeau, MO

• Northwestern Polytechnic University: Fremont, CA

• Schiller International University: Largo, FL

• Brightwood College: Charlotte, NC

• Texas Health and Science University: Austin, TX

See Also: Top Fastest Masters Degree Programs in the United States

Distance Education Accrediting Commission- This is the premier national accreditor of online universities that deliver at least 51 percent of their higher learning digitally. Originated in 1926, the Washington DC-based organization currently oversees 96 institutions in 21 states with flexible degrees up to the doctorate. Directed by Dr. Leah Matthews, the DEAC uses the Approved Quality Curriculum assessment to ensure online courses, even MOOCs, exceed the ethical business practices and support services required. Examples of DEAC-accredited colleges are:

• California Coast University: Santa Ana, CA

• Penn Foster Career School: Scranton, PA

• American Sentinel University: Aurora, CO

• Grantham University: Lenexa, KS

• New Charter University: Salt Lake City, UT

• Columbia Southern University: Orange Beach, AL

Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges- This is the largest independent accreditor of technical institutes on-site or online that specialize in vocational prep. Celebrating its 50th year in Arlington, VA, the agency extends approval to 789 members nationally who serve over 250,000 pupils combined. Led by Dr. Michale McComis, the ACCSC uses a peer-review framework to institutionally and financially audit colleges with at least one program that’s 300+ clock hours during an 18-month evaluation. Examples of ACCSC-accredited options are:

• Porter and Chester Institute: Rocky Hill, CT

• Bryan University: Tempe, AZ

• Rockford Career College: Rockford, IL

• Valley College: Martinsburg, WV

• Northwest College of Art & Design: Tacoma, WA

• Vatterott College: St. Louis, MO

Association for Biblical Higher Education- This is the CHEA-recognized faith-based national accreditor that assesses colleges dedicated to Christian scriptures for following God’s calling. Located in Orlando, this agency oversees 146 North American members with 72 percent average retention in 2,493 Christ-centered programs for nearly 50,000 learners. Headed by Dr. Ralph Enlow Jr., the ABHE grants conditional five-year accreditations to religious seminaries that satisfy 11 standards like ministry formation. Examples of ABHE-accredited schools are:

• Hope International University: Fullerton, CA

• Emmaus Bible College : Dubuque, IA

• Ohio Christian University: Circleville, OH

• Bethany Global University: Bloomington, MN

• Moody Bible Institute: Spokane, WA

• Yellowstone Christian College: Billings, MT

Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools- This is another religious accreditor reauthorized by the USDOE in 2016 to judge America’s finest denominational institutes. Headquartered in Forest, VA, the national agency currently has 73 members or candidates in 23 states that award certificates to doctorates with strong Biblical cores. Run by Dr. Timothy Eaton, the TRACS requires schools to have statements of faith, non-evolutionary creation beliefs, and quality courses on the 66 canonical books. Examples of TRACS-accredited universities are:

• Apex School of Theology: Durham, NC

• Messenger College: Bedford, TX

• Evangelia University: Anaheim, CA

• New Saint Andrews College: Moscow, ID

• Beulah Heights University: Atlanta, GA

• Omega Graduate School: Dayton, TN

See Also:Accredited Online Colleges for Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools: This is America’s only national accreditor reserved for specialized institutes on medical professions projecting 18 percent job growth by 2026. Based in Falls Church, VA, the 40-year-old organization governs 433 allied health locations according to its 18th edition accreditation manual. Managed by George Grayeb, the ABHES extends eligibility to legally operating U.S. schools where 70 percent or more of students have healthcare majors. Examples of ABHES-accredited clinical colleges are:

• Ultimate Medical Academy: Indianapolis, IN

• National American University: Wichita, KS

• Bolivar Technical College: Bolivar, MO

• Pima Medical Institute: Albuquerque, NM

• St. Paul’s School of Nursing: Rego Park, NY

• Southeastern Institute: North Charleston, SC

Image Source

Ways National Accreditation Has Been Changing

Accreditation organizations first popped up in the late 1800s to simply create universal standards for different types of college education. However, a shift started when Congress passed the 1944 GI Bill to educate over 8 million returning WWII vets. Since $14.5 billion was budgeted here, the government wanted to ensure the money was well-spent at state qualifying institutions. Then, the 1952 GI Bill for Korean War soldiers went further to mandate accreditation for funding. Thirteen years later, the Higher Education Act expanded federal grants to non-military students at accredited colleges. The Feds have even more governance over the accreditation process today. The HEA reauthorization in 2008 greatly expanded the oversight of accreditors. Watchdog investigations are increasingly active to stop schools, especially the influx of online ones, from defrauding learners. National accreditation is now heavily scrutinized and needs U.S. Department of Education approval for FAFSA eligibility.

Overall, nationally accredited colleges provide plenty of benefits. They’re usually cheaper, more flexible, more career-oriented, and easier to apply to. Nonetheless, national accreditation is often viewed as less superior to regional and programmatic approvals. Credits from nationally accredited institutes can’t be transferred to undergrad or grad schools with regional accreditation. Likewise, nationally accredited degrees sometimes don’t qualify for scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and career certifications. Now that we’ve explored what is national accreditation and how is national accreditation changing, you can make informed enrollment decisions.

The post What is National Accreditation and How is National Accreditation Changing? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Accredited online colleges are highly convenient for busy non-traditional students to access lectures, assignments, and discussions anytime 24/7 from home or on-the-go. Online degrees are typically less expensive than their campus-based counterparts because paying for dorm housing, meal plans, transportation, and perhaps childcare isn’t necessary. Getting the best bang for your buck is still imperative to maximize your financial resources though. The College Board reports that U.S. undergraduate programs had an average yearly tuition of $9,650 at public and $33,480 at private nonprofit colleges in 2016. College graduates finish their diploma with a mean loan debt burden of $30,100. Reduce the sticker price for your online college experience with these helpful tactics.

See Also: Top 30 Accredited Online Accounting College Degree Programs

Check Accreditation Status Online

Searches for online colleges should always begin with verification of accreditation. This is a third-party certification process conducted on higher learning institutions to determine their credibility and competency for collegiate teaching. Regional accreditation from one of six agencies recognized by the CHEA is preferred for credit transfer, financial aid, and corporate reimbursement. National accreditation is also accepted for practical, career-oriented online training that doesn’t lead to licensure. The U.S. Department of Education offers a user-friendly accreditation database for searching by college or accrediting agency. All legitimate online colleges will be listed, which means you can avoid diploma mills where tuition leaves you with a degree dud.

See Also: Cheapest Online Business Degree Programs for Undergrads

Finding Free Online College Applications

Applying to college can be a surprisingly costly endeavor for online students. Applications can range from $20 to $90 each, so waiving this expense can broaden your prospective college pool. Niche publishes an exhaustive ranking of the “Best Colleges with No Application Fee in America” each year. Many schools from this list, such as Case Western Reserve and Trinity University, have online programs. Take notice that many universities set the application fee at $0 for Internet-savvy students who file online applications. If a prospective school still charges, financially needy students can file the NACAC request for an application fee waiver.

See Also: Top 15 Accredited Online Colleges Without an Application Fee

Hunting for Low-Cost Online Bargains

Landing a low tuition price isn’t about winning the lottery; it’s all about doing your homework. The Internet gives us plentiful resources for searching up-to-date tuition prices. For example, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) runs the College Navigator database to keep colleges transparent. Within the advanced search feature, you can insert your desired degree or major, check the box for distance education, and select the maximum tuition rate for your state. The College Choice website is another good college search option that allows you to easily find online schools where tuition is less than $10,000. Compare your results to the U.S. News online rankings to find top-performing colleges for cheap.

See Also: Financial Aid Tips for Online College

Building a Satisfying Financial Aid Package

Even low tuition can be too difficult for some online scholars to afford. Therefore, it’s important to harvest several financial aid opportunities for covering your online degree. Accredited colleges will qualify for federal aid like the Pell and FSEOG Grants, so file the FAFSA form before June 30th. Look into state-based programs, such as the Minnesota Achieve Scholarship or Georgia HOPE Grant. Across the United States, private scholarships award over $7.4 billion annually for campus and online students. Online schools generally don’t accept Federal Work-Study (FWS) due to distance, but institutional awards are available. Reach out to your college financial aid office to calculate even cheaper tuition.

Now that we’ve covered the ways to find accredited online colleges with no application fee and low tuition, let’s apply them for some great examples. Brescia University is a Kentucky-based school with SACS accreditation that’s accepting free applicants for 14 online programs with affordable tuition at $425 per credit. As an HLC-accredited system in West Virginia, American Public University has a free application for 200+ online programs starting at only $270 per credit. Point Park University is a Philadelphia college accredited by the MSCHE with no application fee that awards 20 online degrees for $412 per credit.

Related Resources:

• Accredited Online Degree Programs – The Advantages
• Why Are Colleges Dropping (Or Entirely Eliminating) Application Fees?
• How Does Accreditation Affect Financial Aid?

The post How Do I Find Accredited Online Colleges With No Application Fee and Low Tuition? appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.

Choosing the right college or university is a critical decision for every student, whether a military veteran or not. There are thousands of institutions across the U.S., but some are better equipped to support the unique needs of students like you. Adjusting back to civilian life can be difficult, and many veterans who enter education find campus life isolating. As a result, some of the best colleges for ex-military veterans are improving the services and support they offer. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know as a veteran looking to advance your education with the goal of building a successful career as a civilian. We’ll cover the best schools and colleges for ex-military students, the types of funding available to you, and look briefly at the best careers for salary expectation and growth. 

See Also: The Ex-Military Student’s Guide to College

What Kind of Support Is Available?

Of course, we’re not saying that every veteran will need extra support, but it’s good to research what kind of services are provided in case you do need support during your adjustment back into civilian life. While this is not an exhaustive list, these are the kinds of services often offered to ex-military students by colleges and universities:

• Specialized Housing – Some universities offer specific housing options for ex-military students. These might include individual dorm rooms, entire floors within a dorm dedicated to veterans, or fraternities and sororities specific to students like you. This guarantees that you’d be sharing living arrangements with others of a similar background. 

• Mixed Recreational Activities – Again, many institutions offer recreational activities and programs that are designed specifically for veteran students, which means you’ll be able to break away from studying to take part in outdoor activities. One such institution is in Maryland; the University of Maryland has the “Adventure Program for Veterans.” 

• Transitional Mentors – At some colleges and universities, you’ll have the opportunity to be partnered with another veteran who is an existing student. These programs are useful for helping you to adjust to life on campus or to provide any advice or links to services you might need. 

• Veterans Facilities – On campus, some universities provide lounges or recreation spaces specifically for use by ex-military students. This might include free beverages and snacks, quiet study areas, and dedicated recreation grounds, for example. The University of Illinois has such a space where like-minded students can relax and socialize outside of lectures. 

• Campus SVA Chapters – An SVA chapter is a student-veteran group on campus that provides peer-to-peer socializing and support for other veterans at the school. They are intended to be an additional support system, as well as an important link in the chain that helps to prepare you for a career after graduation. 

See Also: The Best Online Schools for Military and Ex-Military Students

Best Careers for Veterans

As an ex-military veteran, you have a great deal of life experience and will have developed extensive skills that give you a competitive edge over other graduates coming from purely educational backgrounds. Teamwork and leadership are areas in which you’ll excel after a career in the service; others include critical thinking, problem-solving, and extensive communication-skill development. You’ll also likely have exceptional strength, resilience, and endurance. 

So, into which careers can these skills translate most effectively? We’ve scoured the internet and various employer rankings online to bring you this list of some of the best fields for career advancement and salary expectations. 

See Also: Cheap Accredited Online Colleges

1. Healthcare 

Median Annual Salary: $66,440 (May 2018)

Working within healthcare lets you utilize skills that you’ve brought over from the military, focusing them into a satisfying, mission-oriented, and lucrative career. Common paths chosen by veterans in the healthcare industry include nursing, working in logistics and hospital operations, research, and administrative roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment within this area is projected to grow by 14% between 2018 and 2028, which is above average for all other occupations; this means that nearly 2 million more positions are being created in the civilian workforce. 

2. Government or Public Administration

Median Annual Salary: Varies Broadly

Administration is a broad job category that’s required in most organizations across the United States. As a veteran, you possess coveted leadership skills from your time in the service, which can easily be transferred into a successful career within public or government administration. As such a broad and varied career path, this type of employment has a vast scope for career growth. Salaries attached to such roles can vary widely, but at the highest levels, such as working in public administration, the BLS highlighted a median income of $117,570 in May 2018, for public administrators (or political scientists). 

3. Defense Contracting

Median Annual Salary: $57,624 (May 2018)

Defense contracting is a highly appealing field for veterans, particularly in younger age groups. This work involves creating materials that are used for projects in national defense; for example, aircraft, weaponry, and infrastructure. This field is still linked to the military, which is attractive to some vets who want to stay connected to their past experience, but it offers greater scope for career growth and specialization. You might become an intelligence specialist or analyst, or you could secure a senior managerial role in operations. 

4. Information Technology

Median Annual Salary: $86,320 (May 2018)

With a median annual wage of $86,320, according to the BLS in May 2018, the scope for salary growth within information technology occupations is huge. Depending on your chosen career or entry point, the salary could be around $53,470 for a computer support specialist or as high as $118,370 for a computer and information research scientist. You could even train to become a software developer, who receive salaries above $100,000, according to the BLS. In addition to lucrative salaries, careers in IT provide a distinct path with opportunities for advancement. You might find yourself working in project management or cybersecurity, or as a systems engineer or data analyst. 

5. Financial Services

Median Annual Salary: $68,350 (May 2018)

Financial services is a field that is constantly expanding with a demand for trained individuals. Roles in this field are also popular among veterans, with more than one in ten young veterans entering a finance-related position. The salaries available for these roles are highly competitive, and in addition to having well-defined career paths, this sector has a wide variation in the types of roles available. You could work as an accountant, financial advisor, or in senior management. The median annual salary we’ve highlighted above, from BLS data, applies to business and financial occupations, but these two are very closely intertwined in many areas of civilian employment. 

6. Education

Median Annual Salary: $49,700 (May 2018)

In May 2018, the BLS highlighted a median annual wage of $49,700 for education-, training-, and library-related occupations. While not as lucrative as some other careers on our list, it was still above the median for all other occupations, which is $38,640, and offers significant opportunities for career advancement. You could also find yourself with a varied career that allows you to work in different areas, such as high schools, career centers, kindergartens, middle schools, or in special needs education. 

7. Law Enforcement

Median Annual Salary: $63,380 (May 2018)

As a field that’s highly comparable to the military, law enforcement is a popular choice among veterans. Not all roles require a college degree, though graduating with such a qualification can set you up for more rapid advancement through the ranks and open up new opportunities. The median wage for a patrol officer is around $61,380, but with training and advancement, you could find yourself in a detective role at around $81,920; roles within the federal government can pay slightly more, too. The BLS predicts that employment for such roles is projected to grow by around 5% between 2018 and 2028, which is less than in other fields; however, these roles will always be needed, and your experience as an ex-service veteran is extremely transferable. 

The Best Colleges for Ex-Military Students

You’ll typically find “best of” lists for U.S. colleges online. One of the most popular and well-known is published regularly by U.S. News & World Report; however, this is a general list and not one that’s geared specifically toward veteran students. So, we’ve looked at the spread of the top colleges and universities across the country and have identified how well they rank in areas that include the types of services provided for veteran students and the makeup of veterans within the student body. Here’s our pick of the best colleges and universities for ex-military students. 

1. Georgia Southern University (Four-Year)

We’ve mentioned how some institutions have specific facilities and programs dedicated to veteran students, as it can help to be surrounded by peers with a similar background and similar experiences. At Georgia State University, veterans, and active service members, comprise roughly 8% of the student body; this is one of the largest groups of veteran students at a top-ten U.S. university.

The veteran support area of GSU’s website highlights how the institution enrolls more than 3,500 military-connected students. The university also implements outreach programs and services, including the Veterans Upward Bound program, which offers free development and training for specific skills that are needed for admission. 

2. University of South Florida (Four-Year)

At the University of South Florida, the Office of Veteran Success provides services designed to help more than 2,000 veteran students integrate into campus life. The Veteran Admissions Pathways Program provides a direct liaison between this office and the USF Admissions Office so that you have dedicated support on hand to help guide you through the admissions process. There is also custom support available for residency needs, plus an out-of-state fee waiver, which might mean you’re eligible to apply without needing to pay the admissions fee. 

The office also runs the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program. Designed for ex-military students who are being charged out-of-state tuition, the Yellow Ribbon Program, for short, is a partnership between a number of U.S. post-secondary institutions and Veterans Affairs, which allows said institutions to fund tuition or fee expenses where they exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. 

3. Rutgers University (Four-Year)

Rutgers University is the biggest school in the top ten U.S. universities, with around 70,000 students. What’s more, among the student body, veteran enrollment has tripled in the last ten years. Among the dedicated facilities available on campus are a veterans center for socialization and an office that focuses on supporting applications for military education benefits. The benefits services can be accessed online, too, by students who are studying remotely. 

Rutgers is also part of the aforementioned Yellow Ribbon Program. Additionally, in 2016 the university was ranked Best for Vets in the United States by the Military Times. In fact, the school has been ranked within the top ten by this organization for seven years running. The Rutgers Student Veteran Organization is an advocacy group that’s comprised of and run by student veterans and other support staff. The organization helps to ease your transition into university life, connecting you to important services, programs, and exhibitions, as well as offering you the opportunity to participate in community service. 

4. Wright State University (Four-Year)

When you’re enrolled at Wright State University, existing peer advisors will help to connect you with existing student veterans on campus. These peer mentors will help you to adjust to college life, as well as signposting the various challenges you’ll face, referring you to support resources where needed, and supporting your ongoing academic success. The university also offers credits for past military experience upon enrollment, which means that you may be able to save on tuition fees and receive additional credits on your college transcript. 

The Veteran and Military Center based at the university offers additional support and programs tailored to you. For example, the Veterans’ Voices Project promotes awareness and personal experiences to the wider community, educating the general public on the importance of your service. There’s also a Student Veterans of America chapter on campus. In case you’re not familiar with SVA, it’s a nonprofit organization that has more than 1,500 chapters across the United States. Through this network, you can gain support and resources that will help you to succeed at college and connect with like-minded individuals. 

5. Old Dominion University (Four-Year)

Old Dominion University is another institution that could award you significant credit towards your education from past military experience and training. You could also gain credits for having taken the CLEP or DSST exams. This university is also part of the aforementioned Yellow Ribbon Program and has its own Student Veterans of America chapter. As with Wright State University, there’s also a Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE) program at Old Dominion that links you to existing veterans around the campus. 

Veterans Affairs Services, based at the university, was created to offer specialized support to veterans and their dependents. All staff work as advocates by sharing information about the institution and services available. There’s also an appointed person called “the VA Certifying Official,” who acts as a liaison between Old Dominion and the VA regional office. They’ll help to resolve any issues you have with applying for and receiving VA benefits. 

6. University of North Dakota (Four-Year)

The Veteran & Military Services department at the University of North Dakota will help to maximize the financial support that you receive as part of your VA benefits and provides support on the application process. The staff manning this department have completed the necessary training for DOD compliance and school certifying officials, too. They’ll link you to needed support services and resources, whether you’re a veteran studying on campus or remotely. 

The support services available at UND for veteran students include advanced pay, which can be awarded upon request to those in financial need. You might also be eligible for an award to cover the cost of tuition, where required, by completing an application with the Veteran & Military Services department. 

7. Southern Illinois University (Four-Year)

Southern Illinois University was one of the first institutions in the United States to start offering college degree courses within military installations. Since 1973, the school’s been helping active members of the military and veterans to improve their careers, supporting their spouses and dependents, too. However, SIU also runs veteran programs and has a chapter of the Student Veterans of America on campus. 

The university offers services designed to ease your transition into campus and academic life. You’ll have access to tutoring, credit transfers from your military experience and training, career counseling, and potentially specialized accommodations. There’s also support available for applying for and obtaining GI Bill benefits. Whether you’re a student living on campus or a distance learner, you’ll have access to the same veteran support services.

8. Eastern Kentucky University (Four-Year)

Eastern Kentucky University has been consistently ranked among the top ten “Best for Vets” institutions in the United States by Military Times. The university is also home to the most decorated African-American U.S. military veteran. If you’re at the beginning of your college application journey, EKU’s website sets out a clear and uncomplicated guide to the full application and admissions process, including student funding. 

EKU allows credits to be awarded for past military experience and training, as well as for those who have passed the CLEP exam or DSST exam. The university is part of the Yellow Ribbon Program and is able to help with above-average, out-of-state tuition fees, too. You’ll also have access to a Veteran Student Emergency Fund that’s designed to help those with emergency needs. Grants of up to $500 can help you to cover those unexpected costs that could otherwise prevent you from continuing with your studies. 

9. Jacksonville University (Four-Year)

Jacksonville University’s Veterans and Military Resource Center offers assistance to you as a new and continuing veteran student. The center will support you with admissions, transition into college life, building academic skills, and connecting with recreational and social activities. Essentially, it’s your link to every resource or support service that you might need for your time on campus (or studying as a distance learner). 

This institution is another regular fixture on Military Times’ Best for Vets list and is routinely ranked on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the Best Colleges for Veterans; this isn’t an exhaustive list of the university’s accolades either. At JU, career aspirations are taken into account from the offset, with a dedicated Veteran Career Track designed to help you work toward your chosen career. 

10. Austin Peay State University (Four-Year)

If you’re not sure whether campus life would be the best fit for you, Austin Peay State University offers 100% online distance-learning programs. Alternatively, you can mix your studies between on-campus and online learning with a hybrid program. There are two APSU campuses based at Clarksville Tennessee and Fort Campbell, KY, both of which have their own dedicated Veterans Education Benefits Office. This center helps connect you with the various veterans scholarships and benefits available. 

On APSU’s website, you can find a useful admissions checklist, which highlights exactly what you’ll need to apply. The school also details how past exams and military experience can be translated into credits toward your degree, which could mean you’ll owe less tuition to earn your college education. 

11. University of Utah (Four-Year)

University of Utah’s mission is to improve the academic success of veterans and their family members while attending the institution. The University is also dedicated to ensuring that you receive the benefits you’re due, while acting as a liaison and link to the various services available to you. 

The school’s Veterans Support Center is funded by community donations and offers support services like advance pay, which can help to bridge the gap between semesters when you need urgent college supplies. As a side note, the university is also home to the National Center for Veterans Studies, which runs programs such as the Suicide and Trauma Reduction Initiative for Veterans (STRIVE), a three-year treatment and training program.

Student Loan Help and Funding for Veterans

While some students are fortunate in that their parents or families help cover the cost of college, most students won’t find themselves in that position. The majority of students will need some student aid from the federal government under one of its many financial support services. Federal Student Aid may include grants, like the Pell Grant, scholarships, and student loans. While grants and scholarships don’t normally have to be repaid, student loans do, plus they’ll accrue interest once you enter full-time employment after graduation. 

The good news is that as a veteran, you can receive both VA educational benefits and financial aid at the same time. To apply for Federal Student Aid, all you need to do is complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. By submitting the application, you may be deemed eligible for state, federal, and even institution-specific funding that won’t affect your entitlement to VA benefits. You will not be expected to report your parental income on the FAFSA, as you are considered an independent student. 

As a final note, as a veteran student, under the VA Student Loan Repayment Program, you might be able to apply for up to $10,000 per year towards the cost of repaying your student loans. This program has a maximum financial award of $60,000 over the course of your lifetime and applies to certain career-oriented college courses. You can submit an application for this program here. 

Other Funding for Ex-Military Students

Aside from the various scholarships and other means of funding available to you as ex-military, you also have the potential to get additional help from the U.S. government. The most comprehensive of these options is the GI Bill, for which many veterans and active members of the military are eligible. 

First introduced in 1944, the GI Bill has been helping veterans to attend college for more than 75 years. The benefits you can obtain under the bill could help you to meet the costs of tuition, whether you’re attending college, graduate school, or one of many vocational training programs. 

But this benefit covers more than just one financial award; the term “GI Bill” collectively refers to any educational benefit awarded by the Department of Veterans Affairs to active or ex-military students or their families. There are multiple programs under this umbrella, and each one is administered in a different way, with its own set of eligibility requirements. Below, we’ll take a look at the different programs available. 

Post-9/11 GI Bill

As the name suggests, the Post-9/11 GI Bill awards benefits to prospective students who have served 90 days or more of active duty since September 10, 2001. The link above provides a lot of information on this bill, but we’ll cover two of the most important points here: the different benefits provided and the amounts you may be eligible for based on your service history. 

Monthly Living Stipend

This will pay you a monthly allowance for housing, which is based on the Basic Allowance for Housing, or BAH for an E-5 with dependents. The actual amount you’ll get will be based on the ZIP code in which your school resides rather than that of your home. 

Book and Supply Stipend

An annual book and supplies stipend totaling up to $1,000 is paid at the start of each college term. The amount paid is proportionate to the number of credit hours you’re taking – or, more specifically, $41 per credit hour. 

One-Time Relocation Allowance

Based on your personal circumstances at the application stage, you may qualify for a one-time payment to support relocation. This award of $500 requires you meet the following conditions:

• Be living within a county that has six or fewer citizens per square mile (according to census data), and: 
• Be planning on relocating yourself a minimum of 500 miles to attend your chosen educational institution, or: 
• Be planning on using air travel to attend your chosen educational institution where no land-based alternative transportation is available. 

Benefit Tiering System

Any payments awarded by this bill won’t necessarily be the same for all applicants. Payments correspond to the amount of creditable active-duty service that you’ve accumulated since September 10, 2001, with a percentage of the total award paid for each tier. The following tiering system applies: 

• A minimum of 36 months: 100%
• A minimum of 30 days but discharged due to disability caused by service: 100%
• Between 30-36 months: 90%
• Between 24-30 months: 80%
• Between 18-24 months: 70%
• Between 12-18 months: 60%
• Between 6-12 months: 50%
• Between 90 days and 6 months: 40%

Active Duty Montgomery GI Bill

You may be able to apply for this bill if you’ve been discharged honorably from the military. More than $73,000 in financial awards and other support programs are available through The Montgomery GI Bill. The amount awarded is based on the “current maximum monthly payment rate of $2,050 multiplied by the 36-month limit.” But it’s worth keeping in mind that this changes to account for inflation each October. You’ll receive the current rate regardless of when you apply or are accepted. To relate this 36-month limit directly to your course of study, that means you’ll be eligible for eight semesters (i.e. four years) of funding under this bill. 

Eligibility Requirements 

You’ll be eligible for this financial award if you meet the following criteria: 

• You contribute $100 or more in the first year of service on active duty; 
• You’ve graduated high school or have a high-school-equivalent qualification, such as the GED, before making an application; 
• You’ve served a minimum of two years on active duty; 
• Your service ended with an honorable discharge. 

Another award, known as the Reserve and Guard Montgomery Bill, provides education benefits; however, these are offered to those who are currently actively serving in the military, so as an ex-military student, they wouldn’t apply to you. 

Vocational Rehabilitation and Education Program

Vocational Rehabilitation and Education services are available to you as an ex-military veteran and can help you fund a wide variety of vocational or training opportunities. You might receive funding to help undergo job training or resume development, or you might be supported in starting an apprenticeship, voluntary work, or even a post-secondary training course based at a college. 

Scholarships for Veterans

One final source of funding we’ll look at is scholarships. The great thing about these financial awards is that unlike student loans, you don’t have to repay them after you graduate. They may be awarded by a broad range of people and organizations, including the federal government, nonprofit organizations, community organizations, notable individuals, and even the institutions themselves. In general, scholarships come with eligibility requirements, so below, we’ll look at some of the most common and popular scholarships for ex-military students. 

1. AFCEA War Veterans Scholarships

Award: $2,500

This award is made possible by the AFCEA Educational Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting U.S. veterans in pursuing an education. If you were honorably discharged from the military, then you’re eligible to apply for the scholarship, providing you were deployed in support of one of the following Overseas Contingency Operations: 

• Operation Enduring Freedom; 
• Operation Iraqi Freedom;
• Operation New Dawn;
• Operation Inherent Resolve;
• Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.

In addition to the above, you’ll need to be enrolled in and attending an undergraduate course of study, though this can either be full time or part time. The program must be in a STEM discipline at a four-year accredited university or college in the United States. 

2. AMVETS Scholarships

Award: $12,000

AMVETS (American Veterans) offers scholarships and donations for veteran and other military-related students. The funding helps you to cover the cost of full-time undergraduate study at an accredited college or university. Decisions on who to award the scholarship are based on academic promise and those with the greatest financial need. Made in a single payment, the award must be used within five years of being paid. 

3. Ankin Law Office Scholarship

Award: $1,000

Offered by a U.S. law firm, this financial award is intended to help veterans transition to a civilian career. If you’re accepted for the scholarship, the $1,000 payment is to be used towards the cost of tuition or books and will be paid directly to your institution. To be considered, you’ll have to submit an essay on the chosen topic, which will be judged by a committee. Past topics have included, for example, “The life advantages and disadvantages, as well as the dangers of taking a bicycle to work“.

4. Army Staff Sgt. Special Agent Richard S. Eaton Jr. Scholarship

Award: $1,000

Staff Sgt. Richard Eaton was awarded the Bronze Star, thanks to his service during Operation Iraqi Freedom, in addition to numerous other citations and medals. This scholarship of $1,000 was established in his memory after he died during active duty in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on August 12, 2003. 

5. AWFDN Legacy Scholarship Program (For Women Only)

Award: $1,000 – $2,500

Offered by the Army Women’s Foundation, this scholarship is available for female soldiers, including veterans, and offers free financial support in four key areas. Certificate programs, community college study, undergraduate degree study, and graduate degree study are all areas in which this scholarship can support you. Community college and certificate program scholarships vary up to a limit of $1,000, while up to $2,500 is available towards undergraduate and graduate study. To apply, aside from being a female veteran, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 from high school or a GED and be enrolled in either a community college or certificate program, or you must have a GPA of at least 3.0 from degree-level study at a college or university. 

6. FRA Education Foundation Scholarships

Award: $5,000

The Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) sponsors a program that awards up to $5,000 to veterans studying at the undergraduate or graduate level. In total, recipients are award approximately $100,000 each year, helping many ex-military students to afford a college education. Decisions are based on financial need and academic success, as well as on leadership abilities and personal character. More than one scholarship is offered by this organization, so to find the one relevant to you, you can look at their full list. 

7. Troops to Teachers

Award: Up to $10,000

As suggested by the name, this organization helps veterans to pursue an education that will lead to a career in teaching. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you could receive financial assistance of up to $10,000, making it the second-most-generous scholarship we’ve listed here. Eligibility requires you to submit an application within three years of leaving the military. 

8. VFW Scholarship

Award: Up to $5,000

Offered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Sport Clips Help a Hero Scholarship offers veterans financial assistance of up to $5,000 on successful application. One award per semester, per family, is available, and funds must be used by the end of the school semester for which they’re awarded; funds will be paid directly to the institution. To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen, have been honorably discharged or retired, and have completed Basic Training and follow-on training. You’ll also be assessed based on your financial need. 

Aside from the above scholarships, there are also programs available specifically for those still serving in the military. While we won’t go into more detail here, it’s worth bearing this in mind in case any ex-colleagues or family members are serving active duty and are interested in pursuing a course of education. 

The post The Ex-Military Student’s Guide to College appeared first on Accredited Online Colleges.