How to Succeed in College As A Veteran
College After Combat: 5 Smart Moves for Veterans
Transitioning from the military to college life can feel like culture shock.
The chain of command is gone. The structure is different.
But higher education can be one of the best moves you make post-service… if you’re strategic.
At Roberts Wesleyan University, we’ve walked this journey with veterans before. We know what works. Here are five veteran-tested strategies to help you succeed in college.
Choose a Military Friendly® School
Not all colleges are built with veterans in mind.
Look for schools that:
- Are officially recognized as Military Friendly®
- Have dedicated veteran support services
- Know how to translate your military experience into college credit
Roberts Wesleyan University has earned the Silver Military Friendly® designation for our commitment to supporting veterans and their families.
Use Your Education Benefits - Fully
Too many vets leave money on the table.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program can cover:
- Tuition and fees
- Housing allowance (BAH-style)
- Books and supplies
Start at va.gov/education. Get your Certificate of Eligibility. Then connect with the school’s certifying official.
File the FAFSA too. Yes, even if the GI Bill covers tuition. You could get extra grants or scholarships.
Turn Military Experience into Credit
You’ve already trained, led, maybe even taught. That experience counts.
At Roberts, we:
- Accept the Joint Services Transcript (JST)
- Offer Prior Learning Assessments (PLA) to evaluate on-the-job learning
- Help you shorten your time to degree and save on tuition
Your admissions counselor will walk you through what counts and how to apply it.
Test Out with CLEP or DSST
You shouldn’t have to retake what you already know.
Take advantage of:
- CLEP exams (College-Level Examination Program)
- DSST exams (formerly DANTES)
Our advisors will help you figure out which exams fit your degree plan and which ones are worth your time.
Pick a Program Designed for Adults
You’ve got responsibilities - maybe a family, maybe a job, maybe both. You need a degree that respects that.
That’s why we offer:
- Fully online degrees and hybrid options
- Evening and accelerated courses
- Flexible formats designed for adult learners
As you know, flexible doesn’t mean easy. You’ll have to put in the work. But the right setup can help you finally finish what you started.
Final Word: You’re Built for This
You know how to follow through. You’ve operated under pressure. That gives you a huge edge in college. At Roberts, we’ll help you use that to your advantage.
Use your benefits. Ask questions. And find the school that respects your service and helps you build what’s next.
You’ve served your country. Now invest in yourself.
READY TO START YOUR NEXT CHAPTER?
About the author
Roberts Wesleyan University, A Military Friendly® School
Roberts Wesleyan University is a private Christian university in Rochester, NY, offering more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. Recognized as a Military Friendly® Silver School, we are committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and service-oriented leadership.
We are the only NCAA Division II school in the region and a proud member of the East Coast Conference.