Military Friendly Colleges in Illinois

15 Military Friendly Colleges in Illinois

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Military Friendly Colleges in Illinois

 

Funding for Military Friendly Colleges in Illinois

There are many military friendly colleges in Illinois. According to the VA, in 2022, 328 IL schools received Post 9/11 GI bill funds for over 17,000 students totaling over $133 million dollars.

There are six active programs offering benefits for veterans’ education. If eligible, all of these may be used to help fund a college education.

  • Post 9/11 GI Bill
  • All Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program (MGIB-AD)
  • Educational Assistance for Members of the Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
  • Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
  • Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
  • Post Vietnam Era Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

 

The most used benefit program is the Post 9/11 GI Bill. At Illinois colleges, 72% of the beneficiaries used the Post 9/11 GI Bill to help fund their education.

Military Program# of 2023 veterans eaRNING aid at ILLINOIS colleges
Post 9 / 1110,944
MGIB – AD612
MIGB – SR1,897
REAP0
DEA3,921
VEAP0
TOTAL17,374

Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA

 

 

 

15 Military Friendly Colleges in Illinois for 2025

These 15 military friendly colleges in Illinois are listed based on the total amount of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits awarded in the 2022 / 2023 school year. All of the data cited from the National Center for Education Statistics. Many of these schools take part in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a part of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Under the Yellow Ribbon Program, the colleges and the VA pay the tuition and mandatory fees not paid for by the GI Bill.

1Chamberlain University-Illinois
1221 N. Swift Road, Addison, Illinois 60101

Chamberlain University has a College of Nursing and a College of Health Professions. Both offer campus and online programs. The school also has dedicated Military Enrollment Specialists who are familiar with military and veteran benefits. This enables them to walk you through the process of using your benefits at the University.

There are several military and veteran nursing programs that may be of interest. One is the Military to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This option may suit those who wish to transition from a healthcare role in the military to a civilian role as a registered nurse. Several post licensure programs are also available.

As a prospective student, you don’t need a GRE to apply. The school also offers qualified registered nurses special military tuition rates. These tuition rates vary depending on military status (such as veteran, active duty and military spouses).

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $8,400
Grad: $6,686

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 261
Grad: 299

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 100%
Part Time: 33%

2Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Lincoln Drive | Carbondale, IL 62901

Southern Illinois University Carbondale was one of the first universities to offer degree programs on military installations. There is a Student Veterans Club on campus. Finally, SIU offers several tuition assistance programs for active duty military members.

As a part of the Yellow Ribbon Program, SIU-Carbondale offers up to 10 graduate students $4,221 each, per year.

SIU offers credit for military training. The school has a 77% full time student retention rate and a 79% part time student retention rate for military students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $8,863
Grad: $10,236

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 246
Grad: 45

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 77%
Part Time: 79%

3 Lewis University
One University Parkway | Romeoville, IL 60446

Lewis University offers a number of resources to help military students and veterans transition to higher ed. Veterans, service members and service member family members do not pay an application fee. Plus, Lewis University has a chapter of Student Veterans of America on campus. The Military Education and Resource Center (MERC) serves as a community room. There, students can socialize, relax, eat, and commune with fellow veterans and ROTC cadets.

As a part of the Yellow Ribbon Program, Lewis University offers an unlimited number of Undergrad, Graduate, and Doctoral students various awards. The size of the award depends on the school or division, ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 per year.

The University offers credit for military training. The retention rate for full time students who get military benefits is 88%, and 100% for part time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $15,310
Grad: $7,322

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 110
Grad: 25

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 88%
Part Time: 100%

4 University of Illinois at Chicago
601 South Morgan St | Chicago, IL 60607

University of Illinois at Chicago’s Office of Student Veteran Affairs offers support and fellowship. It conducts activities throughout the year, including the Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership (VITAL) program, which is in conjunction with Jesse Brown VA Hospital.

The University offers credit for military training. Retention rates are 71% for full time and 100% for part time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $11,459
Grad: $17,855

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 200
Grad: 83

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 71%
Part Time: 001%

5University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
601 E John Street | Champagne, IL 61820

University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign is committed to serving Vets, active duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and qualified dependents. The school offers services to help them pursue their academic goals and be part of the campus community.

Illinois’ Veteran Student Support Services (VSSS) offers counseling, medical, and mentoring services. The school also has a Student Veteran Lounge and a chapter of Student Veterans of America called the Illini Veterans.

The University offers credit for military training. The retention rate for students with military benefits is 100% for full time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $12,226
Grad: $7,450

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 125
Grad: 117

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 100%
Part Time: 67%

6Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
IL State Rte 157 | Edwardsville, IL 62026

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers a special rate for active military, reservists and National Guard for students. That includes those in undergrad or graduate programs up to a master’s degree. The Student Veteran Association at SIUE helps close the gap between military and civilian life for student veterans.

The University offers credit for military training. The retention rate for full time students who get military benefits is 100%. For part time students, it is 50%.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $8,117
Grad: $8,403

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 231
Grad: 35

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 100%
Part Time: 50%

7 Columbia College Chicago
600 South Michigan Ave | Chicago, IL 60605

Columbia College Chicago’s Student Veterans Association (CCC – SVA) is a non exclusive club for student veterans and their supporters. They provide resources that help veterans navigate college. That includes getting info on federal benefits and health resources. Plus, the group offers an environment for veterans to socialize and feel comfortable.

CCC participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. It offers 250 students up to $2,000 in grants each, per year.

Veterans are eligible for transfer credit for military training. The retention rates for students with military education benefits are 89% for full time students. This rate is 50% for part time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $15,806
Grad: N/A

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 74
Grad: 3

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 89%
Part Time: 50%

8 Northern Illinois University
1425 W. Lincoln Highway | Dekalb, IL 60115

NIU is a public university. That’s key, since the Illinois Veteran Grant Program pays tuition and allowable fees for eligible undergrad, grad and law students at all Illinois public colleges! NIU has a dedicated point of contact for support services for veterans, military service members, and their families. And, it has a Student Veteran Organization on campus.

The University offers credit for military training and experience. Retention rates for students with military education benefits are 71% for full time students. This rate is 57% for part time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $8,107
Grad: $9,165

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 117
Grad: 39

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 71%
Part Time: 57%

9 Illinois State University
North and School Streets | Normal, IL 61790

Illinois State University’s Veterans and Military Services Office offers support to all its military-connected students. Additionally, the Veterans Study Center serves as a valuable resource, offering a space for students to convene, study, collaborate, or simply relax. Moreover, the center hosts programs aimed at supporting student veterans.

The university acknowledges and grants academic credit for knowledge gained through military service. Notably, the retention rate for students benefitting from military education stands at 82% for full-time students and 67% for part-time students.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $9,544
Grad: $4,735

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 161
Grad: 11

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 82%
Part Time: 67%

10 Northeastern Illinois University
5500 N Saint Louis Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60625-4699

Northeastern Illinois University offers degree programs that include online options and hosts an ROTC training program.

Their Veterans Services Office provides guidance on federal and state military educational benefits for veterans, active military members, and their families. This office aims to support the military community throughout their studies at Northeastern, offering referrals at both state and federal levels within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

For eligible veterans who have been honorably discharged and have served a minimum of one year of active duty or in the guard/reserve, NIU grants a minimum of four credits. Veterans need to submit copy 4 of their DD214 to the Admissions Review and Processing Office for this credit. Additionally, credits are awarded from military transcripts upon submission for evaluation, based on military service and training.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $7,249
Grad: $7,258

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 73
Grad: 9

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 84%
Part Time: 67%

11 Benedictine University
5700 College Rd, Lisle, Illinois 60532-0900

Benedictine University participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, providing support for individuals who have served in the military and wish to pursue or further their education. The university offers a simplified admission application process tailored for veterans, ensuring a faster and more efficient pathway. Additionally, completing a FAFSA can help secure financial aid beyond VA benefits.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $7,419
Grad: $11,200

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 9
Grad: 12

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 40%
Part Time: N/A

12 Southwestern Illinois College
2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville, Illinois 62221-5899

SWIC provides comprehensive Veterans Services, offering credit assessments for military transcripts. The aim of Veterans Services is to enrich the educational journey for Veteran students, their dependents, and service members. As a student, you can anticipate access to supportive resources, advocacy, accurate information, and a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, you’ll receive guidance on utilizing VA benefits and support when transitioning to civilian employment.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $4,351
Grad: N/A

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 198
Grad: N/A

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 68%
Part Time: 46%

13 Western Illinois University
1 University Circle, Macomb, Illinois 61455

Western Illinois University hosts an on-campus Veterans Resource Center. Collaborating with university departments and local organizations, this center offers comprehensive services and resources in a centralized setting, ensuring that veterans and service members access the necessary support. This encompasses guidance on utilizing VA education benefits.

The University acknowledges and awards credit for military training to eligible students. Veterans from the National Guard or Reserves with under one year of continuous active service may receive 4 semester credit hours towards their degree. Meanwhile, veterans with a full calendar year or more of full-time active duty, coupled with an honorable discharge, could receive 8 semester credit hours towards their degree.

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $5,513
Grad: $5,513

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 98
Grad: 9

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 77%
Part Time: 44%

14 National Louis University
122 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60603

National Louis University hosts a Veterans Resource Center Website. If you’re a current NLU veteran or connected to the military and have questions about programs, support services, or available education benefits, reaching out to the Veterans Program Director or Veteran Service Coordinator can offer guidance.

Military-affiliated students enrolled at NLU might qualify for military tuition scholarships, book vouchers, and credit recognition for eligible military training. For additional support, individual or group tutoring and career services are available on campus. Moreover, there’s an active NLU chapter of the Student Veterans of America.

The Air University Program, a collaboration between the Air Force and civilian higher education institutions, facilitates CCAF graduates’ pathways toward bachelor’s degrees. Look for the Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative NLU Partnership Program within this initiative.

 

Average Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits Awarded

Undergrad: $12,433
Grad: $9,849

# of Students Earning 9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Undergrad: 16
Grad: 10

Retention Rates For Students Who Receive Benefits

Full Time: 75%
Part Time: N/A

What is the Illinois State Military Scholarship?

The State of Illinois provides an education scholarship for the dependents of Veterans who are either Missing In Action, a Prisoner of War, died while on active duty, 100% disabled due to service-connected disabilities, or died as a result of service-connected disabilities.

What GPA is needed to get into a military college?

Aim for the 75th percentile with a 1430 SAT or a 33 ACT for the best chance of admission. Additionally, having a GPA of 4 or higher is recommended. If your GPA is lower, compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.

Does the military cover 100% of college expenses?

Yes, the program is available for active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members, covering up to 100% of college tuition. It applies to undergraduate and graduate degrees, vocational and technical programs, as well as distance learning classes.

This is a private website that is not affiliated with the U.S. government, U.S. Armed Forces or Department of Veteran Affairs. U.S. government agencies have not reviewed this information. This site is not connected with any government agency. If you would like to find more information about benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, please visit the official U.S. government web site for veterans’ benefits at http://www.va.gov.

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*https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_311.15.asp

Sources for school statistics is the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.

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