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Best Online Colleges for Military Service Members 2026
March forward with an online degree
Continue your mission and expand your career with a tailored online degree
for military active members, military spouses, and veterans.
Last Updated February 2026
Best Online Colleges for Military Service Members 2026
Continue your mission and expand your career with a tailored online degree
for military active members, military spouses, and veterans.
Last Updated February 2026
Best Online Colleges for Military Service Members 2026
Last Updated February 2026
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Our Most Popular
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Online
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Campus
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  • 200+ portable online degree programs: Associate, bachelor's and master's degrees that help position you for the jobs you want
  • Dedicated military support from day 1 to graduation and beyond
  • Up to 30% tuition discounts for active duty and their spouses, national guard and selected reserve
  • Online flexibility: Access your coursework online 24/7 so you can learn on your schedule
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Online
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  • Military-friendly school offering flexible programs designed to support those who balance career, duty, family, and studies
  • Turn your professional military education (PME) and training into college credit with Purdue Global’s innovative PME2Degree® program
  • Earn a degree backed by the power of Purdue, one of the nation’s most respected and innovative public universities
  • Work with specially trained military advisors who can help with information about reduced tuition rates, military benefits, and program options
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Online
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  • Dedicated military support with active-duty tuition assistance, military benefits counseling, and free career and employment services
  • Offers 150+ areas of study from a Christian and faith-based perspective through high-ranking programs
  • 8-week accelerated courses for faster degree completion available
  • Option to transfer up to 90 credit hours to your degree at Regent University
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Did You Know?
More than half of U.S. college students take at least one online course (NCES)
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Online
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  • Prepare for a promotion or a career pivot with a military-friendly online associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree
  • Take courses 100% online and study when and where you want, at the pace of your life
  • Transfer credits from eligible college coursework and prior career and military experiences to cut the time and tuition required for your degree
  • Earn a degree designed by industry experts with employer needs and your career success in mind
Our Top Choice
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Online
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Campus
defaultClasses start on03/02/2026
  • 200+ portable online degree programs: Associate, bachelor's and master's degrees that help position you for the jobs you want
  • Dedicated military support from day 1 to graduation and beyond
  • Up to 30% tuition discounts for active duty and their spouses, national guard and selected reserve
  • Online flexibility: Access your coursework online 24/7 so you can learn on your schedule
5,827,680
people have compared online colleges with
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Editorial Reviews
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Southern New Hampshire University
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Purdue Global
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Regent University
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Our Statistics
Our Statistics
84%
of online undergraduates are employed while studying.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
63%
of students choose online programs for their flexibility.
Sources:
https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/online-learning-statistics
50%
less learning time is required when online learning.
Sources:
https://www.nu.edu/blog/bachelors-degree-statistics/
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Studying Online vs. On-Campus: Which is Better?
Online vs. On-Campus

Pursuing an online degree offers a flexible and convenient way for students to advance their education and career prospects while empowering students to study from a diverse range of courses at their own pace from any device. Explore the different benefits that an online degree offers and how it adapts to your studying style.

OnlineCampus

Online Education for Military: Understanding the Basics

Online education has become a vital resource for military personnel, offering a flexible and convenient way to pursue higher education. The most significant aspect of studying at military-friendly online colleges is the adaptability it provides, especially for those with demanding schedules.

Benefits of Military-Friendly Online Universities

Choosing an online degree for military members brings numerous advantages. These institutions understand the unique challenges faced by military personnel and veterans, offering tailored support and resources.

Convenience and Flexibility

Military life can involve frequent relocations, making traditional college attendance challenging. However, online colleges for military spouses and service members eliminate this barrier, offering the freedom to study from anywhere. This flexibility is crucial for those who need to balance military duties with academic pursuits.

Online courses at these institutions are designed for asynchronous learning, allowing students to access materials at their convenience. This approach is particularly beneficial for active-duty military members who may have unpredictable schedules.

Affordability and Financial Aid

Tuition costs at traditional universities can be prohibitively high, but online schools for veterans and military personnel often have lower overheads, translating to more affordable education. Additionally, these institutions may offer specific financial aid options, scholarships, and tuition discounts for military members and their families.

Career Advancement

Degrees from military-friendly online colleges are highly regarded and can significantly enhance career prospects within and outside the military. Employers recognize the value of a degree from an accredited online university, particularly when it reflects a student's dedication and ability to manage their studies alongside military commitments.

Choosing the Right Online Military-Friendly College

When selecting the best online colleges for veterans or active-duty members, several factors should be considered.

Accreditation and Specialized Programs

Accreditation is paramount. Ensure that the online college is recognized by reputable accrediting bodies. Many of these colleges also offer programs specifically tailored to the needs of military personnel, including credit for military training.

Comparing Costs and Financial Aid Options

While affordability is a key consideration, it's also important to explore the range of financial aid options available, including military benefits, scholarships, and grants.

Collaboration and Support Systems

Despite the remote nature of online learning, the best online schools for veterans and military service members offer robust support networks, including mentorship programs, military-specific advising, and online communities.

Ease of Use and Accessibility

A user-friendly platform is essential, especially for those who may be stationed in remote areas or have limited access to technology.

Applying to Online Military-Friendly Colleges

The application process is similar to traditional colleges but often includes additional support to guide military personnel and their spouses through the process.

Finding the Best Fit

Ultimately, the best online college for a military member or spouse depends on individual needs and goals. Consider factors such as program offerings, support services, and flexibility to ensure the best fit for your educational journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges & Universities
Can I use my GI Bill or Tuition Assistance (TA) for online degrees?
Yes, most accredited online colleges accept military education benefits like the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance. Be sure to confirm eligibility with your school and military education office before enrolling.